For the homeowner with little to no experience when it comes to tree removal, the risks that are associated with attempting to remove a tree on their own are great. Contrary to what many might think simply chainsaw proficiency is not enough to perform this dangerous activity safely. Primarily because of the unpredictability of trees.
Here are three examples of situations where attempting to remove a tree on one’s own:
>> A Tree Hung-up in another Tree
Storm-damaged can often result in a tree that is partially fallen and actually hung-up in another tree. The pressure caused by this can have tremendous stress built up within the lower tree’s trunk. Improper cutting of the tree could easily result in an explosive release of this, which would end up causing either the trunk or large branch to strike you with a lot of force.
>> A Tree with Broken Branches or a Break in Its Upper Trunk
When trying to deal with a large tree that has experienced a great amount of damage during a storm it is easy to drop a heavy branch or the upper portion of its trunk while in the midst of cutting it. It is important to always check what could fall on you from above. That said, dangers of this nature are not always visible from your vantage point.
>> Partially Uprooted Trees
If you’ve ever bent over a tree sapling and then released it, you might have noticed that it springs back up. Tree saplings store elastic energy, and when it is bent that energy is released. Large trees and large branches do the same thing, only they do it with much more power and might. So much so that it can easily knock an adult into the air. This danger exists in primarily in threes that have been uprooted. This is because cutting through the trunk can cause the part of the tree that is still connected to the roots to kick upward. This might occur while you are still in the process of making your cut. Because of this, you never want to straddle, stand on the trunk, or otherwise place yourself in the direction of its potential release.
Fallen trees can do other unexpected things, including twisting and swinging their branches mid cut. Another danger of improper cutting can cause a vertical split in the trunk which can seriously injure you as the tree falls.
Other Potential Risks when Cutting Down a Tree Yourself Include:
>> Injuries sustained through improper use of a chainsaw
>> Being caught under a falling tree
>> Falling branches
>> Hitting a live wire
>> Splitting the base of the tree
The decision to remove a tree yourself is one that should not be taken lightly and comes with a multitude of potential risks. There are a number of professionals available that can offer you their services at an affordable price, allowing you to avoid taking the risk of hurting yourself or a loved one by accident during the tree removal process. Call us today!