When you are looking to cut down a tree, you want to fall it safely without causing any harm, right? This calls for you to consider several tips. These tips include:

Think about the falling direction

Where will the tree fall? You need to think about this before you even begin cutting it. Of course, when the tree is already leaning, you have minimal choices on the direction the tree is going to fall. The situation is even worse if the tree is caught or “hung up” by the branches or wires nearby.

If the tree is leaning in a direction that can cause extensive property damage, it’s wise to involve professional tree removal services. The professionals usually have large equipment to move the trees to your desired location.

If the tree isn’t leaning at an unsafe angle or caught in branches or wires, you should settle on the felling direction and devise an escape plan.

As a rule of thumb, you want a clear exit to get away once the tree starts falling. Ensure the path is clear so you can easily move around and be as far as possible as the tree falls.

Gather the right tools

There are plenty of tools in the market you can use to bring down a tree, and you need to use the right ones to have an easy time and, at the same time, avoid accidents from coming about.

Some of the tools you can use include:

Foot breaking bar: This is suitable for small trees. To get the most from it, insert it into the tree before you complete the felling cut.

Impact bar: You use this bar the same way you use the breaking bar, but you can also use it as a striking tool when using felling wedges.

Felling wedges: These are best for felling medium to large trees. You insert them before you complete the felling cut. For the best outcome, use wedges made from plastic or aluminum. This is to ensure that you don’t damage the chainsaw chain in the event you cut into them.

Create the perfect notch

The notch you make on the trunk significantly affects how the tree will fall. As a rule of thumb, ensure that the notch faces the direction you want the tree to fall.

To make the notch, you simply need to use a chainsaw and cut about a quarter into the tree’s trunk at a 60-degree angle. You should then make a horizontal undercut that meets the top cut and creates a wedge.

After making a notch and ensuring there is nothing or anything in the fall zone, move in the opposite direction, then saw a horizontal line beginning a few inches above the notch level, and stop cutting about three inches before you hit the notch.

By doing this, you will have created a “hinge” that makes it easy for you to fall the tree more controlled manner.

After making the hinge, insert a felling wedge into the hinge cut. When you do this, you have an easy time removing a chainsaw in the event it’s pinched between the upper and lower portions of the cut.

As you cut the tree, strive to stand right up as much as possible. The reason for this is that when you bend, you create a larger surface area for things to fall on and, at the same time, expose your spine to the branches that the tree might fall on.

According to tree removal companies Bethesda, when you are standing, you become a smaller target, and you have an easy time getting away when things don’t go as planned.