Types of Tree Felling Cuts Explained: Which Is Best for Your Tree?
Cutting down a tree is no simple task, and using the right techniques is essential for ensuring safety and precision. Arborists use several types of cuts when felling trees to control how and where the tree falls, reducing the risk to surrounding structures, the environment, and the people involved. This article breaks down the most common tree felling cuts and explains when to use each one.
The Importance of Choosing the Right Tree Felling Cut
The method used to fell a tree depends on several factors, including the tree's size, health, lean, and location. Understanding these cuts helps ensure that the tree falls in the right direction without causing harm or unnecessary damage. Here’s an overview of the three most common types of cuts used by professional arborists:
1. Open-Faced Notch
What It Is: The open-faced notch is created with two cuts: one angled downward (about 70 degrees) and one horizontal cut that meets it, forming a wide open 'V' shape.
Best Used For: This type of cut is ideal when you need the most control over where the tree will fall. It keeps the hinge wood intact until the tree is nearly on the ground.
Why It's Effective: The wide notch allows the tree to fall slowly and in a controlled manner, making it perfect for larger trees or those on slopes.
Source: This cut is widely recommended for arborists aiming for precision, particularly when felling trees near buildings or on uneven terrain(Everything Arboriculture)(Forbes Tree Care).
2. Conventional Notch
What It Is: A conventional notch is made by cutting a horizontal line and a 45-degree diagonal cut above it, forming a smaller notch than the open-faced version.
Best Used For: This is a traditional felling method commonly used for medium to large trees on flat ground.
Why It's Effective: The smaller notch works well for split-prone trees, as it allows for a quicker and more straightforward fall. However, it doesn’t offer as much control as the open-faced notch.
Source: Often favored for its simplicity and speed, this technique is useful when you're working with flat terrain and don't need as much precision(Bovees, where the growing begins!)(Garden Guides).
3. Humboldt Notch
What It Is: This type of notch is created by making a horizontal cut and an upward cut that meets it from below. The resulting wedge looks inverted compared to the conventional notch.
Best Used For: The Humboldt notch is primarily used on steep slopes and for very tall trees.
Why It's Effective: It leaves a low stump, making it easier to remove, and is perfect for cutting large trees in rough terrain. The upside-down wedge also helps reduce the risk of the tree splitting during the fall.
Source: The Humboldt notch is particularly useful for arborists working on uneven landscapes, helping them to safely fell trees without excessive risk(Bovees, where the growing begins!)(Forbes Tree Care).
Why the Back Cut Matters
Once the notch is made, the back cut is essential for bringing the tree down. This cut is made on the opposite side of the notch and slightly higher than the notch's bottom. The back cut allows the tree to start tipping over. Be sure to leave a portion of uncut wood, called the hinge, between the back cut and the notch to control the direction and speed of the fall.
Safety First: Always Leave Tree Cutting to the Professionals
Felling a tree can be extremely dangerous without the proper knowledge, tools, and training. Incorrect cutting techniques can cause a tree to fall unpredictably, leading to property damage, injury, or even death. Always wear appropriate safety gear like helmets, gloves, and chainsaw chaps.
For larger trees or those near structures, hiring a certified arborist is the safest option. Family Tree Care does not claim to train or encourage anyone to cut a tree down without professional assistance and proper safety training. For complex situations, it's always best to seek expert help.
Sources:
Everything Arboriculture(Everything Arboriculture)
Bovees Garden(Bovees, where the growing begins!)
Garden Guides(Garden Guides)
