Tree Felling Techniques: How to Control the Direction of a Falling Tree
When cutting down a tree, safety is the top priority. Ensuring that a tree falls in the intended direction can prevent accidents and property damage. Whether you’re an arborist or a homeowner, understanding the right cutting techniques is crucial to staying safe and getting the job done right. This article will guide you through the basic steps and best practices for controlling the fall of a tree.
Step 1: Plan Your Tree Felling
Before making any cuts, evaluate your tree and the surrounding area. Ask yourself these questions:
Is there enough space for the tree to fall safely?
Are there power lines, buildings, or other obstacles nearby?
Is the tree leaning in a specific direction?
Understanding these factors is essential for deciding where and how to cut. It’s also important to plan an escape route—one that leads away from the tree at a 45-degree angle from the expected fall direction(Everything Arboriculture)(Bovees, where the growing begins!).
Step 2: Make a Face Cut
The face cut, also known as a notch cut, is designed to control the direction of the tree's fall. It is made on the side of the tree facing the direction you want it to fall. Here’s how to do it:
Top Cut: Make a downward angled cut at about a 70-degree angle.
Bottom Cut: Cut horizontally until the cuts meet, forming a wedge-shaped notch.
This notch should be about one-third of the tree's diameter deep. An open-faced notch, where the top and bottom cuts meet at a wide angle, provides the most control(Bovees, where the growing begins!)(Forbes Tree Care).
Step 3: Create the Back Cut
The back cut is made on the opposite side of the tree, slightly higher than the bottom of the face cut. The purpose of the back cut is to release the tree, allowing it to fall. Be sure to leave a hinge of uncut wood between the face and back cut, which will help control the direction of the fall(Bovees, where the growing begins!).
For larger trees, you may need to use felling wedges to prevent the tree from pinching your chainsaw and to guide the fall(Forbes Tree Care)(Garden Guides).
Step 4: Use Ropes for Extra Control
In some cases, especially when a tree is near buildings or power lines, using ropes can help you better control the fall. Attach a rope to the higher parts of the tree and use a rope puller to guide it in the right direction(Forestry). This method is often used in conjunction with wedges and can greatly reduce the risk of accidental damage.
Safety Tips for Tree Felling
Wear Safety Gear: Always wear a helmet, eye protection, gloves, and chainsaw safety pants. Chainsaws are powerful tools and can cause serious injuries without proper protection(Everything Arboriculture)(Forbes Tree Care).
Check Your Chainsaw: Ensure your chainsaw is well-maintained, sharp, and properly oiled before use(Garden Guides).
Never Rush: Tree felling requires careful planning and attention to detail. Take your time to evaluate the tree's condition and execute each step safely(Forestry).
Disclaimer
Family Tree Care does not claim to train or encourage anyone to cut a tree down without professional assistance, proper training, and the necessary safety equipment. Tree felling can be dangerous and should be handled by experienced professionals whenever possible.
