man with chainsaw cuts tree

What Equipment Do You Need To Cut Down A Tree?

Table of Contents
    Add a header to begin generating the table of contents

    Even while cutting down trees is generally thought of as having negative effects on the environment, it is unfortunately unavoidable given that wood is one of the most important commodities on the planet.

    Whether you are cutting down trees to make paper, to keep warm in the winter, to start a fire in the middle of the forest, to tell scary stories around the campfire while eating s'mores, or for any number of other less important reasons, you need to know how to cut down a tree in the correct manner and make sure you have the appropriate equipment.

    It should be your very last resort to cut down a tree in your yard, and in many parts of the country, local ordinances prohibit you from doing so. The fact that the tree is dying and could topple down at any moment, causing injury to people or damage to property, is one of the most prevalent reasons why it could be necessary. Cutting down a tree is an activity that should be approached with considerable caution.

    Because of this, it is typically recommended that you seek the assistance of a qualified expert to complete the task for you. You will, however, need to make an investment in the appropriate tools and supplies for the task at hand if you plan on attempting to complete it on your own. Having the appropriate equipment can help remove some of the potential hazards, making it a significantly less dangerous endeavour to cut down a tree. Planning for a  tree lopping, pruning, wood chipping, mulching, palm removing & stump grinding? At Tree Amigos, you can find high quality and affordable arborist services for your needs.

    A tree can be climbed, cut, trimmed, or pruned by virtually anyone because there is such a large variety of tree cutting and climbing tools currently available on the market. It is not sufficient, however, for someone to be considered an expert in tree care simply because they own all of the equipment required to complete such jobs. And it most definitely does not make that individual qualified to be considered an arborist.

    Different Types Of Tree Cutting Tools

    It is imperative to err on the side of caution and make use of only the appropriate tree cutting instruments for the job while undertaking the chore of cutting down or felling a tree because the difficulty of the operation can vary greatly depending on the size and health of the tree being worked on.

    The felling of a tree is the kind of work that is typically best left to those who are trained and experienced in the field. This is typically the case with large trees, trees that are close to a structure, trees that are decaying, or if you feel uneasy about taking on the task yourself. If, on the other hand, you are dealing with a relatively tiny tree and you believe that you are up to the challenge, then this is possibly something that you can do on your own.

    Because you should prioritise safety above all else, you should only use the appropriate tree-cutting instruments and make sure to follow all of the safety instructions. To make the job less difficult and more manageable, it is recommended that you educate yourself on the various methods of tree cutting. If this will be your first time using a chainsaw, it is strongly recommended that you seek the assistance of someone who is already familiar with the tool.

    Chainsaw

    When someone mentions cutting down trees, the first tool that comes to the mind of the majority of people is almost always a chainsaw. The most straightforward and efficient method for felling a tree is to use a chainsaw for the job. Chainsaws have a lot of power and can make short work of cutting through wood with little effort. Because of their force, you need to exercise extreme caution whenever you use these instruments so that you do not injure yourself in an accident.

    If you need to cut through logs or if you have a little tree that you need to cut down, then having access to a chainsaw will allow you to get the job done quickly and easily. If you have a good chainsaw, you won't have any issues sawing through the wood, and you won't have to worry about putting in too much effort.

    As long as you handle this equipment with caution, it will be one of the least complicated ways for you to take care of the requirements for cutting down trees. Chainsaws are versatile tools that can be used for a variety of tree-cutting tasks, including the removal of big branches.

    It is also important to remember that chainsaws can be found in a variety of different designs. Gas-powered chainsaws will always be more effective than their electric counterparts. Overall, these will be somewhat noisy, and their operation is not as smooth as that of the other available choices. Electric chainsaws may not have quite as much power as their gas-powered counterparts, but they are much less noisy and produce no exhaust emissions during operation.

    Your specific requirements will determine which of the several types of chainsaws will appeal to you the most. If you have a large number of trees that need to be cut down, investing in a chainsaw that is powered by gas will prove to be quite advantageous. A chainsaw that is powered by electricity will serve the majority of tasks just as capably as its gas-powered counterpart. The fact that you won't need to buy fuel for the electric-powered chainsaws is another factor that contributes to the general convenience of the situation.

    Pole Chainsaw

    The use of pole chainsaws, which are fantastic instruments, will make the process of cutting down tree branches a great deal less difficult. Investing in a pole chainsaw is something you should think about doing if you have tall trees on your property that you want to be able to prune. If it isn't absolutely essential, nobody wants to use a chainsaw while they are mounting a ladder. When you need to chop down tree branches that are high up in the air, the reach of a pole chainsaw is going to make the job a lot easier than it would be otherwise, and it is going to do this by making it possible for you to cut through much more material.

    These kinds of equipment, like the chainsaw described before, are available in a variety of distinct designs. Both gas-powered and electric-powered variants will be available for purchase at some point in the future. To no one's surprise, the versions fueled by gasoline will have higher pulling strength, while those powered by electricity will have a lower environmental impact. You shouldn't have any trouble making either choice work well for your needs, so it's probably preferable to go with the one that sounds most appealing to you.

    These chainsaws for poles have a considerable range of motion. The length of a pole chainsaw will vary from model to model. There is no standard length for these saws. You will be able to reach up to 15 feet with the one that is being demonstrated here. This makes the process of chopping down a large tree branch a great deal less difficult overall. You won't have to worry about putting yourself in a dangerous situation in order to get the task done. This won't be the case.

    Using this highly effective instrument, you may prune branches that are rather substantial in thickness. If you have this pole chainsaw, cutting through branches with a diameter of up to 8 inches won't be a problem for you.

    If you want to simplify the process of trimming and cutting down tree branches, then investing in this tool will be a wise decision for you to make. You won't have any trouble utilising it, and you won't have to worry about maintaining your equilibrium while climbing a ladder. See our list of available arborist services Perth  for your tree removal solutions.

    Pruning Shears

    People use a variety of equipment to cut down trees on a daily basis, some of the most frequent of which are pruning shears. If you have a decent pair of pruning shears, you'll find that trimming tree branches is a breeze. These are the kinds of tools that you may use to prune your trees and ensure that they always look their best. These shears are normally suited for pruning smaller limbs, but there is a possibility that you will not be able to clip branches that are too thick with them.

    Pruning shears are a handy tool that should be owned by everyone who is serious about taking care of their property to the best of their abilities. When it comes to giving a tree a shape that is more visually pleasing, they are an extremely useful tool to have on hand. You won't have any trouble using the pruning shears at all, and you won't even have any trouble using them while you're standing on a ladder, too. If you have a large number of trees on your property, you will find that these items are really helpful.

    Naturally, a lot of people utilise these shears on things that aren't trees as well as they do on trees. Folks will be trimming their hedges and other things on their land with pruning shears like this one. You will observe people doing this. Because it will come in handy for cutting a wide variety of plant life, it is an excellent item to maintain in your garden area. The fact that you can rely on this instrument to serve you for a significant amount of time also makes the investment in it worthwhile.

    someone trimming bushes with garden scissors (1)

    Tree Loppers

    The use of tree loppers represents something of a progression from the use of pruning shears. The pruning shears are limited in their ability to cut certain types of branches, while the tree loppers can handle anything. These tree loppers have powerful blades, and you can fit the branch you're trying to chop in between the blades of the tool. After that, you put your power to use to bring it to its knees, and after that, you move on to the next one.

    It's a straightforward idea that, when put into practise, yields quite satisfying results. The use of these tree loppers is straightforward and produces excellent results. The tree loppers are going to be the instrument that you go for first and foremost whenever you have to prune branches off of your trees. You should be able to prune the tree branch with this instrument as long as it does not have an exceptionally significant diameter. To make the operation of cutting through thicker branches more manageable, you will need to make use of a chainsaw or pole chainsaw.

    The tree clippers that are being displayed here have an extension mechanism built into them as well. This may prove to be quite helpful when attempting to reach branches that are situated somewhat higher up. You should be able to avoid using a ladder if you proceed in this manner. Since climbing ladders makes some people uncomfortable, this alternative solution will likely be well received by a large number of individuals.

    The user will not experience any discomfort when use this instrument. Even after you've been working hard for several hours straight, you'll be able to keep your cool thanks to the comfortable handles on this set of tree loppers. You won't have any trouble holding onto these tree loppers, which ensures that you'll have the best experience possible at all times. When you combine this with the general sturdy construction of the instrument, it is simple to understand why selecting this alternative is encouraged.

    Long Reach Tree Pruner

    When working on trees when you have a fear of ladders, a long reach tree pruner is going to be an excellent alternative to consider. If you have trees with branches that are located at a significant height, then you will require a trustworthy instrument in order to prune those branches. In the event that you do not wish to scale a ladder, you will need to find an alternative that is suitable for your needs. The long reach tree pruner is the best option for trimming high branches without putting yourself in danger because of the height of the branches.

    It is rather remarkable how far-reaching the effects of this technology may be. This helpful equipment allows you to reach up to 7 feet into the air, which makes trimming high branches significantly less of a hassle than it was in the past. People who are shorter than average appreciate having tools of this kind because they expand their reach and make it possible for them to properly cut and trim branches from the ground. Because having this item in your possession is so helpful, you should give serious thought to getting it.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    There are various ways to cut tree roots, and the best tool for the job will depend on the size and type of tree roots you're dealing with.

    For small roots, a sharp spade or shovel can be used to dig around the root and then cut it with a pruning saw. Larger roots require a power tool like a reciprocating saw or an angle grinder. If you're not sure what type of tool you need, it's best to consult with a professional arborist. 

    They will be able to assess the situation and recommend the best course of action. In some cases, tree roots can be poisoned or treated with herbicides to kill them without having to cut them physically. However, this should only be done as a last resort, as it can damage the surrounding soil and vegetation.

    Yes, people can start a fig tree from a cutting. First, take a 6-8 inch cutting from a fig tree at least two years old. The cutting should have 2-3 node buds. Next, cut off the leaves from the bottom half of the cutting, and dip the cut end in the rooting hormone. 

    Then, plant the cutting in a moist potting mix or perlite. Be sure to keep the cutting moist, but not wet, until its roots finally; once the roots have developed, transplant the fig tree to a larger pot or planting area. With proper care, your fig tree will thrive and produce fruit for many years.

    Depending on the size and type of tree, the cost of cutting it down can vary widely. Smaller trees may only cost a few hundred dollars to remove, while larger trees can run into the thousands. 

    The best way to get an accurate estimate is to contact a tree removal service in your area and have them come out for a free consultation.

    They will be able to give you a better idea of what it will cost to remove the tree based on its size, location, and type. Keep in mind that there may also be other factors that affect the final cost, such as permits or disposal fees.

    When it comes to tree cutting machines, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Instead, the best machine for the job will depend on a number of factors, including the type of tree being cut, the size of the tree, and the desired final product. 

    For example, people who need to cut down large trees may prefer a chainsaw, while those simply looking to trim branches might find an electric trimmer to be more convenient. Ultimately, the best tree cutting machine is the one that best meets the needs of the individual.

    One of the most common questions people ask about growing trees is, "How long does it take?" The answer to this question depends on a number of factors, including the type of tree, the climate, and the care given to the tree. 

    In general, it takes anywhere from two to five years for a tree to reach full maturity. However, some trees may take longer to mature, and some may never reach their full potential due to poor growing conditions.

    However, with proper care and attention, most trees will eventually reach their full size and provide years of enjoyment.

    Gas-Powered Chainsaws Vs Electric Chainsaws

    When looking for an excellent chainsaw, there are two primary factors to take into consideration: gas versus electric. Gas-powered chainsaws offer greater portability, but it can be difficult to determine the appropriate mixture of gas and oil for them.

    A gas chainsaw has a reputation for being less kind to the environment than its electric counterpart, and it also requires an additional investment due to the higher cost of gas. Electric chainsaws avoid these issues, but you may need to use extension cords to get to the tree you want to cut down, which, in addition to being somewhat inconvenient, may also present additional challenges. Electric chainsaws are the best option for removing trees.

    For instance, if you are unable to gain access to an electrical outlet, you will be completely out of luck and may even be forced to find another employment.

    To a significant extent, the price of the chainsaw is determined by the amount of power it possesses. A chainsaw's price will go up proportionately to the amount of power it possesses. Some models may be purchased for as little as $150, but the majority of them are much too lightweight to be able to undertake the labour of cutting down a tree of a decent size. You should budget anywhere between $300 and $400 to purchase a chainsaw that is up to the task of doing the work that needs to be done.

    Additional Tools And Equipment

    You shouldn't just grab a chainsaw and head out to the backyard to down a tree like it's nothing. The addition of more tools and equipment will improve efficiency while also raising the level of safety. Take, for instance:

    • Ladder –You will need to tie the tree down with rope if it is really tall or if it is in an area with obstructions. A ladder is absolutely necessary in order to get to the highest branches of the tree.
    • Rope – To bring down portions of the tree in a secure manner, you are going to require rope. Take special care to employ the appropriate method.
    • Axe –If the tree is tiny enough or has rotted away sufficiently, you might get away with using an axe. It is to one's advantage to make an investment in a model of good quality.
    • Wedges – This, in addition to an axe and chainsaw, will help to make the entire procedure simpler and more manageable.
    • Safety Equipment – You are required to wear protective gear when carrying out this work, regardless of whether you cut with an axe or a chainsaw. Make sure you protect your head, eyes, and ears by purchasing a hard hat, work gloves, work boots, eye protection, and ear protection.
    • First Aid Kit – It is important to keep a first aid kit on available at all times in the event of an unexpected event or a minor mishap.

    Cut Down A Tree Safely

    Put it exactly where you want it to land! Check out these tried-and-true methods for felling trees like a pro.

    Wear The Right Safety Gear

    When it comes to cutting down trees and using chainsaws, the phrase "safety" is not one to be taken lightly. If you were to take this matter seriously, it would be beneficial. When working with a chainsaw in any capacity, but especially when cutting down a tree, you are required to wear the following items of mandatory protective clothing: - A logger's helmet, which serves as protection from falling branches, the most common source of accidents sustained by loggers. - Protective gear for your eyes and hearing, such as mufflers and a face shield. - Eye protection to prevent dust from getting in your eyes. - Chaps made of Kevlar, which will immediately halt a chain if it comes into contact with your leg should you drop the bar against it.

    Buy Felling Wedges

    Using two felling wedges made of plastic can protect your saw from getting pinched while you are cutting. You should be able to locate these at any outdoor power equipment retailer that also sells chain saws.

    Estimate The Felling Zone: How To Fell A Tree In The Direction You Want

    You'd be surprised at how tall trees actually are, as well as how far down they may reach on the ground. By using the "axe handle method," you may get a rough idea of where a tree will fall when it is cut down, which is helpful if you are in the process of felling a tree. This is how you can convince a tree to bend in the desired direction:

    Keep the handle of an axe at arm's length, close one eye, and adjust your distance from the tree by either moving away from it or moving closer to it until the top of the axe is even with the top of the tree and the bottom is even with the base of the tree. Your feet should be positioned approximately where the treetop will land once it falls. However, this is only an estimate, so make sure to leave yourself some extra space if there is something that the tree could potentially land on!

    Clear A Cutting Zone

    You are not prepared to experience the impact of the tree's fall, even when you are certain which way it will fall. Remove any undergrowth that may be surrounding the tree's trunk, and clear two escape routes on the side of the tree that is not at risk of falling. They should be facing in opposing directions and approximately 45 degrees apart from one another. When you are trying to get away from a tree that is falling, the last thing you want to do is trip.

    This article will help you make a decision about tree stumping and removal.  Here at Tree Amigo, we’re passionate about trees!

    Size Up The Tree

    Examine the tree as your first subject. If you observe any of the following, do not reduce it:

    • branches that have died and either broken off but are still linked to other branches or have broken off but are supported by other branches. There is a significant risk that you will knock a branch loose, resulting in it falling on you.
    • It is highly loaded with branches on one side, or it is leaning in one particular way. Regardless of how hard you try, it will fall in the opposite direction of the lean or load.
    • In the area that will be cut down, there are structures, fences, power lines, and other things that are important to you. In that case, you should forego the feeling and bring in the experts.

    Anatomy Of A Proper Notch

    A good rule of thumb to follow when cutting down a tree is to make the depth of the notch equal to one-fifth of the diameter of the tree trunk. The objective is to achieve the angles that are depicted in the diagram (or as close as you can). The point of the notch ought to be brought into contact with the felling cut. The hinge will assist in directing the tree in the appropriate direction as it begins its descent once it begins to fall.

    Plan The Notch

    You are going to make a cut in the trunk on the "fall" side in order to create a notch. Sight along with the handle, and make adjustments to the saw such that it points in the direction of your intended fall.

    arborist cuts branches with chainsaw tree

    The centre of the notch will be located at the point where the bar makes contact with the bark. Mark the location of the notch with chalk or make a score in the bark using the chainsaw before beginning the cutting process. Position the notch at a height that allows for easy working. (At a later time, you can always cut the stump shorter.)

    Cut the Notch

    The cut at the top should be made first, followed by the cut at the bottom. Make sure that your hand is positioned so that your thumb can control the throttle when you are performing the bottom cut. When the top-notch is precisely aligned with the wedge, the wedge will fall out of the notch. However, it is quite likely that you will need to extend the incisions made from either the top or the bottom in order for the wedge to be able to fall free.

    Use Wedges On Big Trees

    If you are felling a tree that has a diameter that is greater than 18 inches, go ahead and make your notch cut and then start making the felling cut. When you have cut through the bar sufficiently to start pounding wedges behind it, you should stop cutting. Keep the bar in the cut and continue to run the saw, but lock the chain brake and drive the wedges in with the hammer. After that, complete the cut. If the tree is allowed to lean back during the cut, the wedges will prevent the saw from becoming pinched.

    Scroll to Top