Things to Consider Before Cutting Down a Tree

Cutting down a tree is an extremely risky job. This is particularly true if it is your first time doing it. That is why this job should always be left to professionals.  

However, if you can’t find a reliable tree service company to cut down the tree for you, you can do the job on your own. Simply make sure you do your due diligence.  

Keep in mind that cutting down a tree needs a lot of preparation. Doing so will help you avoid accidents and injuries.  

If you’re scared of doing this by yourself, please consider hiring a professional tree service Bakersfield company for help. However, if you really want to do it on your own, here are some things you should consider first: 

Plan the Getaway Zone and Fall Zone 

As the name implies, the fall zone refers to the direction or area where you want the tree to fall. It’s vital that you carefully plan this so you don’t hit power lines, a car, your house, or any other structure.  

To help avoid individuals from walking into the fall zone, place signs and ropes around the area. To properly do this, you have to estimate or measure the height of your tree. Consider adding several feet or overestimating the length for safety.  

In addition to the fall zone, you should also plan a getaway zone. Oftentimes, this is on the opposite side of the direction the tree should fall.  

Get the Right Permits 

Before you start cutting down a tree using a chainsaw, you need to make sure you are allowed to start the project.  

To do this, ensure you get all the necessary permits to work on getting rid of your tree. Even if the tree is situated within your private property, you might still require permission from the town, city, state, or even homeowners’ association.  

Also, it’s best to research the laws regarding tree removal in your town. If you can’t find information online, you should call your local government. 

Get the Right Chainsaw and Safety Equipment 

You should not underestimate the safety gear and precautions needed for a tree removal job. Some of the most crucial safety gears you need include: 

• Steel-toed or heavy-duty work boots 
• Kevlar or chainsaw chaps 
• Chainsaw gloves 

• Safety glasses 
• Earmuffs 
• A logger’s helmet or chainsaw helmet with a face shield.  

If you are still planning to buy the chainsaw for your tree, there are a couple of things to keep in mind: 

• Pick a chainsaw that provides extra safety measures. This includes vibration reduction, automatic chain locks, and handguards.  

• Look for anti-kickback safety mechanisms. Cutting a tree using a chainsaw can cause kickbacks and result in fatal or serious accidents.  
• Consider the size of your tree when purchasing a chainsaw. If you’re planning to cut down a big, hardwood tree, you might need a gas-powered chainsaw.  

On the other hand, if you’re simply cutting down smaller trees, a battery-powered and electric chainsaw is enough for the job. You can also use it to cut branches of your tree.  

What to Do with a Tree Stump

You might now be stuck with an ugly tree stump in your lawn, whether you have performed a DIY removal recently or a tree on your property has fallen accidentally. Since the root system of a tree grows in an outward direction, it can spread across the lawn. This makes the tree extremely hard to totally uproot.  

Some people might hire a tree arborist Greeley to get rid of the tree stump. However, there are other things you can do to it. Here are some of them: 

Let Your Children Get Crafty 

Think about using the stump for an enjoyable outdoor craft if the tree stump is situated in an area that is safe for your kids to play. Have your children gather things such as leaves, branches, stones, and small flowers to create their own gnome garden or miniature fairy. You can then finish it off with a couple of small décor and figurines from a local craft store.  

Make Your Tree Stump into a Piece Lawn Furniture 

You can browse online for creative ways others have done to their tree stumps if you are feeling up to a challenge. You can craft natural and beautiful outdoor stools, tables, and other pieces of furniture. You can also go all out and make a whole dining place with the stump as the base for the table. You can also keep things simple and create a smooth surface in the stump where you can place decorative items, such as a potted plant and more.  

Repurpose the Tree Stump 

You can start another life in a plant that has died. You can easily reuse the tree stump for growing new plants. This is particularly true if you are able to get rid of its inner remnants. All you have to do is to fill the hollow area with soil or potting mix. Make sure you add a bit of sand to guarantee correct drainage. Then, you plant a couple of seeds. After that, you can watch the new plant thrive.  

You can utilize your new DIY planter to grow shallow-root plants. This depends on the tree stump’s size. Here are a couple of examples: 

• Vegetables (Kale, spinach, lettuce) 
• Herbs (lavender, thyme, sage) 
• Small shrubs 

• Ferns 
• Perennials 
• Daffodils 
• Succulents 

Hire a Professional to Get Rid of It 

It can immediately lead to disaster if you try to get rid or grind the tree stump on your own. You may not exactly know where the underground utility lines of your home are located. It can result in disaster if you damage gas, sewer, or water lines. Luckily, a professional tree service company can get rid of the stump while keeping your family and your lawn safe.  

Small Sitting Table 

You can make a long-lasting tree stump table with some polish and sanding. This table can be utilized in various ways or places. You can use it as a tabletop in your bathroom. You can also use it as a corner table for items in a bedroom.