One of the most dangerous and challenging undertakings for property owners is learning how to cut down a tree near a house safely.
Even though it may seem like a simple task, there are many things that can go wrong when cutting down a tree near your house. It’s not just that the roots can damage plumbing pipes, and the branches can smash windows or cause other property damage—it’s also the fact that homeowners insurance won’t cover these things.
So, if you don’t want a giant property damage bill, you should take action right away. Lucky for you, our tree service contractors in Columbia, Tennessee, have all the tips on how to cut down a tree near a house to ensure the job goes smoothly and safely.
How to Cut Down a Tree Near a House: Important Steps to Take
Obtain Permission
Before you start cutting down your tree, make sure you have permission from whoever owns the land on which it sits—even if that person isn’t present at the time of your request.
Find Out What the Law Says
If you live in an area with rules against cutting down a certain type of tree (such as one with historical value), check with local authorities before beginning work on any project that involves chopping down trees.
Involve an Arborist
Once you have permission to remove dangerous or dying yard trees and are sure that the process won’t break any laws, call in a professional arborist who can remove the tree(s) safely and professionally.
An arborist knows how to cut down a tree near a house with minimal damage. They will carefully plan to follow the steps below to ensure a safe and efficient tree removal process:
- Clear the area to prevent any damage as the tree falls.
- Remove any dead branches first, as these can cause damage if they fall on nearby trees, your house, or other property. Arborists use the three-cut method to remove lower branches safely and efficiently.
- Use ropes and pulleys to safely lower large sections of the tree onto the ground. The rope serves as a fall line, helping guide the tree to a safe and unobtrusive position.
- Use saws, chain saws, and other tools with care to avoid hurting anyone or damaging their tools or clothing!
- Arborists use chain saws to make notched cuts on the tree trunk, guiding the tree to where they want it to fall. They then make opposite cuts to create a wedge, deepening these cuts until the tree drops.
- Once the tree falls, your arborist will recommend the next steps, including how to deal with the stump and clearing away the resulting debris. They will cut the stump at ground level or treat it with a stump killer to enable its decay.
Don’t Risk Your Safety: Call in the Experts
Are you looking for tree removal services? Look no further than Volunteer Tree Company. We have over 20 years of experience in the industry and are passionate about providing the best service possible.
Our team of experts will take care of all your tree removal needs quickly and efficiently. We can also help you with specialist tree care services, which you can learn more about in our guide to saving stressed trees.
Contact us at (931) 637-5487 for a free assessment and advice on how to cut down a tree near a house safely. Our arborists will be happy to inspect your site and give you the proper guidance so that you can ensure a safe and positive outcome.