Taking down a tree is typically only done as a last resort when other safe management options, such as pruning or mitigating the effects of disease, are insufficient. Damage caused by trees that are dead, dying, or otherwise hazardous can run into the thousands of dollars, not to mention the incalculable cost of bodily injury.
Do-it-yourself In certain contexts, felling trees could appear to be a sensible course of action to take. When you take into account the potential risks and additional expenses, however, it becomes immediately evident that removing a tree on your own can soon become a nightmare. This is why:
Danger When they are taken down, even the smallest trees might have unexpected reactions. Even if the tree does not fall on you when it is cut down, it still has the potential to "kick out" in an unanticipated direction, which could result in damage. In a similar vein, a tree that has fallen could strike electricity lines or your house, causing serious harm or even fatality.
Damage Damage to property is a risk that exists even in the most basic of tree removal scenarios. Even in the event that the tree does not bring down a power line or cause structural damage to your house, it still has the potential to cause harm to your yard or other personal property, such as automobiles that are parked in your driveway or on the street nearby. It's possible that infrastructure for utilities, including gas risers and telephone poles, could be at risk as well.
Cost In conclusion, do you think that removing the trees on your own will save you money? In the event that things go wrong, as was mentioned earlier, absolutely not. It is possible that removing a tree on your own will cost you quite a bit of money due to probable damage repairs, medical fees, and insurance coverage gaps. But even if you do it correctly (and I have to ask, are you really qualified to know the correct technique to remove a tree in the first place?), the expenditures will still build up.
For instance, only a small percentage of homeowners have the appropriate ladders and height equipment to securely reach the highest branches of their trees. In addition to it, you will require cutting tools such as chainsaws. Have a stump grinder?
You're going to want one of them as well, most likely. Do you have a huge truck that you can use to cart away the tree's limbs, branches, and even some of the tree trunk? Almost certainly not. What about using a wood chipper to reduce the size of the branches to something more manageable? Harnesses for your protection? Do you have any other support available?
In the event that you are unable to safely remove a tree from your property, you will be need to rent the necessary equipment, which will come at a significant expense. However, this does not qualify you to perform the task of tree removal.
Any property can benefit from the kerb appeal and beauty that trees provide. This article will help you make a decision about tree stumping and removal. Here at Tree Amigo, we’re passionate about trees!
They not only provide shade but also help to reduce the amount of money you spend on cooling and heating your home. There are occasions when a tree that is located nearby your home might become a major headache for you, including the risk of structural damage to your home's foundation.
It is generally safe to cut down a tree that is inconveniently close to your home or property, but you should always check with a trained arborist who can carry out a thorough assessment before doing so.
The Dangers Of Tree Removal
Work involving trees is always dangerous, but felling trees is among the most perilous of these jobs. To successfully take down a tree involves knowledge of tree physics and biology, as well as the use of risky tools and complex cutting techniques. Homeowners who try to remove their own trees on their own run the risk of being hurt by falling branches, faulty equipment, or the tree itself.
Risks associated with tree removal include the following:
- Power lines. Working in close proximity to electricity lines is dangerous, and you should always operate under the assumption that the wires are energised. If you, your tools, or the tree happens to touch a power line, you might be responsible for turning off the power in your neighbourhood (if you're lucky). You have a very high risk of being electrocuted. The idea that the black coating on electricity lines serves as insulation is another another urban legend that some people continue to accept. This is not the case at all. The black coating on electricity lines serves the purpose of protecting the metal cable from the elements. Even if you weather-proof something, there is still a risk of getting electrocuted.
- Improper equipment. OSHA mandates that individuals who work in the tree removal industry must wear protective gear from head to toe. Tree care experts are also trained in the safe and efficient use of various tree felling and disposal tools, including chain saws, ropes, cranes, and wood chippers. In order to accomplish a successful and risk-free removal, homeowners would require all of these equipment, in addition to the necessary level of competence. Because they do not have it, they put themselves in needless danger.
- Wood that is rotting. A tree that is dead or in the process of dying is frequently rotting from the inside out, which causes it to be very unstable. Cranes are sometimes used even by professionals when removing such large pieces of deadwood. Find a qualified arborist to remove your tree as soon as possible if you suspect that it has begun to rot, should the structure suddenly topple over on you. When removing dead trees, there are essential tree biology processes that need to be understood, which is why it is always vital to seek professional assistance.
- Gravity. As soon as the tree begins to topple, you will no longer have any influence over where it lands. It's also possible that it won't fall the way you expect it to, even if you try to direct its trajectory with ropes or properly carved notches in the ground. Due to the lack of good judgement, the tree may topple over and cause damage to homes, electricity lines, or even people.
To summarise, property owners should never try to take care of their own tree removal. It is not worth taking the chance, as it will most likely result in more issues being raised than being resolved.
Why Should You Removal A Tree
The decision to cut down a tree is never an easy one; however, there are a few very good reasons to go ahead and do so. We at Tree Service know how stressful it can be to consider cutting down a tree in your yard. Nevertheless, reading this essay could help you rationalise in your head (and your budget) why cutting down a tree is sometimes an absolute need.
Landscaping Problems
It is common practise to plant trees in undesirable sites. It's not always a bad thing when the tree is first planted and it's little, but over the course of time (sometimes decades), the development of a tree can pose significant problems with the landscape. The inability to successfully cultivate grass is the most pressing issue that we encounter in this region.
Large shade trees are infamous for preventing grass and other landscape plantings from growing anywhere around the trees. This is one of the major drawbacks of having these trees in the landscape. If you want to know what kind of a mess this can produce, just ask any family that has both children and dogs, especially during the rainy seasons of spring and fall.
It is a perfectly reasonable cause to cut down a tree in order to make room for grass and other landscape plantings.
Property Structure Problems
Again, trees are frequently planted in sites that are not ideal when they reach maturity. Just recently, we cut down a Black Oak tree that was fifty years old and had been planted approximately ten yards away from the corner of a house. When it was first planted, this tree was obviously quite little. Nevertheless, it developed into a giant specimen over the course of several decades, and now it has large branches that protrude out over the roof of this house.
In addition, during the fall, the large amount of leaves that this tree dropped led to significant problems with the gutters that were responsible for roof drainage. This is only one particular instance of a tree wreaking havoc on a building or other structure on a property.
Another typical issue with trees is their tendency to grow close to and even on top of electrical wires. This is a more severe problem, particularly during intense storms and ice, when there is the possibility for damage to trees.
Invading the space of a building or other structure on private land is most likely the most compelling argument for cutting down a tree.
Storm Damage
Extreme weather conditions, like high winds and ice, can cause irreparable damage to trees (via tree trimming). In addition, if the tree sustains sufficient damage, such as splitting, it will eventually perish even if no further action is taken.
Not only are severely damaged trees ugly in a landscape, but they also pose a significant threat, as they have the potential to cause harm to neighbouring structures as well as even human life.
Even while we can repair storm-damaged trees by trimming away some of the damage, there comes a point where the tree needs to be destroyed for the sake of both safety and aesthetics.
Disease And Insect Infestation
Each year, diseases and insects like the emerald ash borer take the lives of countless trees. In addition, even before they are fully lifeless, they can become unsightly and sometimes hazardous additions to your landscaping. Even while our professional arborists are able to properly detect and treat trees that are sick or infested with insects most of the time, there are instances in which a tree simply cannot be saved. In this scenario, the removal of the tree is the only course of action that makes any sense at all.
Other Safety Issues
The growth of mature trees can obstruct people's lines of sight and make it difficult for them to leave or enter a property, both of which pose a threat to public safety.
Again, trees that are planted too closely to a house have the potential to obstruct doors, windows, garages, and other entrances. Some trees continue to present difficulties in this way even after receiving extensive pruning.
In addition, even after meticulous pruning, they will still continue to expand, which will result in an ongoing issue. In addition, trees have the potential to obstruct stop signs, traffic signals, and other safety components in our neighbourhood, which makes them a danger to both drivers and pedestrians. In situations like these, tree lopping is frequently required.
Is It Okay To Remove Trees Close To The House?
You turn your head and stare out the window. It can be seen here. You step outside. It can be seen here. It's that annoying tree again, obstructing everything you try to do.
Simply glancing at the tree brings up memories of having to clean its leaves out of your gutters, of feeling anxious whenever there are high gusts, and of the break in your pavement that was caused by the tree's roots.
In addition to that, the tree is developing in close proximity to a piece of the property that is owned by the city of Phoenix. In the event that the tree causes damage to the area, you will be in a lot of trouble.
You have reached the conclusion that now is the appropriate moment to cut down the tree. Providing, of course, that cutting down trees so near to the house isn't against the rules.
You are probably thinking that since it is your property and your tree, the decision should be made by you. You are absolutely correct. However, the fact that you are permitted to cut down a tree in Phoenix does not mean that you should do so—at least not without the assistance of a qualified arborist. This is the reason why:
Roots The Same Size As Your Home
Big trees have big roots. Additionally, large roots can spread in all directions, including beneath the foundation of your house. Large tree roots have the potential to undermine foundations even when they are not visible above ground, just as they do when they are exposed above ground. Worrying about tree removal? Then, Tree Amigos tree removal solution is the right choice!
When you cut down a tree and remove its roots, you could notice a change in the texture of the soil. This is the same ground that your house is sitting on. That is, if the soil shifts, your foundation might shift as well, which would result in significant damage to your property.
Trees Can Be Tricky Fallers
It's possible that you're an experienced tree cutter. You might be the master of do-it-yourself landscaping. In that case, you are aware that when trees are being cut down, they often have a mind of their own. The moment you believe you have it sliced and wedged to fall in a secure direction, a strong breeze comes out of nowhere and redirects it.
Or, what if there is only one secure location for a tree to land, and it must pass through property that belongs to the city? What happens if the only way to get rid of the tree is to break it up into smaller pieces? What would you do if you suddenly remembered that there were electricity wires in the direction of the tree that was falling?
It is possible to make a mistake about the amount of space required for the tree to fall in open area if you do not have expert measurements. Even if it just hits a house at a height of a few feet, the impact of a falling tree can cause major damage, such as shattered windows and roof tiles. It only takes a few feet, or perhaps the very tip of a tree, to suffocate a person to death.
It is recommended that you seek the assistance of expert tree removers, such as one of us at Design Tree Maintenance. We are aware that you are capable of completing it on your own, but you are not required to. We are able to assist you in completing the removal in a risk-free manner.
The Right Tools For The Job
In order to remove a tree from its location in a secure manner, many tools are required. It's possible that different tools will be required for the various species of trees. Tree trimmers that hold valid licences are armed with this expertise and already possess the necessary apparatus.
There is no requirement for you to invest money on a tool that you might just use once. It won't be essential for you to purchase materials such as rope, harnesses, wedges, chainsaws, pruners, safety helmets, gloves, and any other items that may be required.
Finishing The Job
The removal of the tree is the simple portion of the process. What comes next can seem like a waste of time, but it is really essential for ensuring the safety of both you and your home. For example, once the tree has been cut down, what should be done with it?
Tree trimmers who work professionally are aware of the proper procedure for removing a tree and the location in which to transport it.
Other tasks following the removal can be taken care of for you by the professionals, such as removing certain roots to prevent termites from being drawn to them and ultimately to your property. In addition to this, they are aware of which roots should be left in place to stabilise the soil in your house.
In conclusion, the professionals will keep working up until the job is done. It is not unusual for a homeowner to become sidetracked when working on a project, such as cutting down a tree, because life tends to get in the way. The tree trimming project is put on hold, and before you know it, an entire year has passed, and you still have half a tree standing close to your home.
When you hire arborists in your Phoenix neighbourhood, you can rest assured that the work will be done quickly and effectively. Before you employ them, they will provide you with an accurate estimate of the amount of time required as well as the total cost. Get in touch with someone as soon as possible to get assistance removing the tree from around your house.
What Is Considered Too Close?
In a perfect world, the distance between your house and any trees should be at least 15 feet. Depending on the initial landscaping, larger species will require more space to flourish, while smaller ones may be placed slightly closer together.
If the tree is currently hanging straight over your house or if there are branches that are already brushing the roof, the proximity of the tree to your home is definitely uncomfortably close. Instead of cutting down the entire tree, you might be able to just have the branches pruned back instead. This procedure will cost you money, but it will be cheaper than completely removing the tree from your property.
Since that poses a risk to your property, you should get any dead or dying trees removed as soon as possible. Dead trees are the first to fall during a storm, and the last thing you want is for one of those trees to be on top of your home when the storm is through.
Should You Have the Tree Removed? That question can only be answered after assessing the current condition of the tree as well as its proximity to your home. In most cases, the best course of action for maintaining healthy trees is to prune the branches.
Frequently Asked Questions
Several reasons a tree might need to be removed from the ground. If the tree is dead or dying, it may pose a safety hazard if it is left in place.
Storm damage can also leave a tree at risk of falling, and in these cases, it is often best to remove the tree before it has a chance to cause any damage. Finally, trees may need to be removed in some cases to make way for new construction projects.
However, every effort should be made to preserve existing trees whenever possible. Trees provide numerous benefits to people and the environment, so only remove a tree from the ground when necessary.
An arborist is a trained professional who specialises in the care of trees. An arborist can help you determine the best course of action if you have a tree that needs to be removed. They can assess the tree's health and the surrounding area and make recommendations based on their findings.
In some cases, it may be possible to save the tree by trimming it back or performing other forms of treatment. However, removal may be the only option if the tree is too far gone or poses a danger to nearby property.
An arborist can also help with the removal process, ensuring that it is done safely and correctly. This can help to minimise damage to your property and ensure that the tree is removed without incident.
Removing a tree for wood can be a challenging but rewarding task. In addition to the necessary equipment, you will need to consider the size and type of tree, as well as the surrounding area. You will need to rent or purchase a chainsaw if the tree is large. You will also need felling wedges, which are used to split the tree trunk once it has been cut. For smaller trees, you may be able to get by with a hand saw.
Once the tree has been cut down, you will need to remove the limbs. This can be done with a handsaw, a hatchet, or an axe. Finally, you will need to transport the lumber to your desired location. If you have access to a truck, this will make the job much easier. Otherwise, you may need to use a hand dolly or wheelbarrow. With the right preparation, removing a tree for wood can be a fun and satisfying experience.
When a tree is cut down, the roots are no longer anchored in the ground. This can cause the tree to topple over, especially if the roots are shallow. In addition, without the roots to take up water and nutrients, the tree will quickly die.
The tree's wood may be used for lumber or firewood, but the rest of the tree will usually be left to decompose. Over time, the tree will rot away, providing nutrients for other plants and animals. In this way, a tree can continue to nourish life even after it is gone.
If you're considering starting a tree-planting project, you may be wondering whether trees grow back from roots. The answer is yes! Trees can regenerate from roots, provided they have the right conditions. In general, trees need a moist, shady area to thrive. They also need to be protected from strong winds and harsh sun.
Once tree roots have established themselves, they will begin to produce new leaves and branches. However, it's important to note that not all trees are equally successful at regenerating from roots. Some species of trees, such as maples, are particularly well-suited to this type of growth.
Others, such as pines, are more likely to produce new seedlings. Ultimately, the best way to determine whether a tree will grow back from its roots is to consult with a local expert.
Don’t Forget The Foundation.
The roots of nearby trees have the potential to grow and extend underneath your home over time. Roots with a smaller diameter often begin to penetrate the concrete walls of a foundation, which can lead to a potential compromise in the building's structural stability. This predicament has the potential to become a greater risk as time goes on. Uneven movement of the earth is still another problem. The ground beneath your house will gradually move as a result of the roots' growth and expansion. This may have an effect on the slab or basement, as well as the water absorption around your property, which may lead to cracks in the future.
Even if you are granted permission to cut down the tree and are able to do so, the solution may only be a stopgap one. Roots that have already established themselves have most certainly caused harm, which will need to be repaired on your part. Roots that have begun to rot might frequently make the instability worse. Always seek the opinion of a professional arborist or tree removal expert before making any tree-related decisions. They are able to assist you in determining whether it is in your best interest to cut down the tree or whether you should simply allow it to continue to develop in its existing place.
Carbon sequestration in forests is currently a hot topic, and there's a solid reason for it. As a result of removing carbon from the air and storing it in their wood, trees are able to reduce the severity of some of the worst effects of climate change.
This blanket "do-nothing" approach is an oversimplification of a complex topic. Some people believe that the best use for a tree is to leave it alone so that it can continue to take more carbon out of the atmosphere. However, this method is not the only option. See our list of available arborist services Perth for your tree removal solutions.
The issues of climate change and forest carbon need to be addressed within the context of the numerous benefits that trees and forests provide. These benefits include clean water and air, habitat for wildlife, renewable wood products, aesthetics, and recreational opportunities, in addition to the forest's ability to sequester and store carbon. Furthermore, in the inhabited terrain that we have created, we never truly "do nothing."
We don't let wildfires burn as a modern society, we don't allow beavers flood home developments, and we don't leave the "mess" of blown-down trees in our streets after a hurricane or tornado. We place a higher priority on protecting human life and the security of our houses than we do on allowing nature to run its course.