Tall trees with large and thick branches look amazing on any property. It enhances the aesthetics of any landscape with its lush green leaves, shadowy canopy, big branch and giant trunk. However, these large and tall trees also threaten properties, especially homes and residential spaces.
Henceforth, you must cut branches of the tall trees to eliminate those risk factors. Nonetheless, cutting branches from a tall tree can be a dangerous task. So, you must know how to cut branches from a tall tree safely. It requires proper knowledge, skills, and cutting equipment.
And with today’s discussion, you will get the appropriate guidelines to cut tall tree branches safely and properly.
How To Cut Branches From A Tall Tree Safely
The big canopy and shades of tall trees and their branches often overwhelm us. But, we must also cut and trim it to maintain tree health. Also, it is crucial to safeguard your property from dangers, as large branches can break and damage the wall, roof or nearby space.
Step 1: Assess the situation
Before you start cutting the tree branch, it’s paramount to assess the situation. So, you should first examine the tree and its surroundings. It will help you identify potential hazards such as power lines, buildings, or nearby people and structures.
Determine the size and weight of the branches you plan to cut. Also, check how high the limb is so that you know the way to reach it. It is crucial to find the right tool to access the branch safely. Lastly, ensure that you have a clear pathway for the falling tree branch so it doesn’t damage anything.
Step 2: Gather required tools:
Next up, you must collect all the tree-pruning tools. Also, you will need safety gear.
- Safety gear: You should wear sturdy gloves to protect your hands from sharp edges and thorns. Invest in safety goggles to shield your eyes from debris that may fall while cutting.
- Ladders or climbing gear: A stable ladder or appropriate climbing gear is crucial since we’re dealing with a tall tree. You should get a ladder at least 20 feet long to reach the higher branches safely.
- Pruning saws or loppers: Depending on the size and thickness of the branches, you’ll need pruning saws or loppers. These tools will help make clean cuts.
- Rope and harness (optional):Do you plan on removing larger branches or tackling more extensive trimming? If so, you should use ropes and harnesses for stability and control.
Step 3: Take preparation
As part of your preparation to cut the tree branches, put on appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE). It may include a hard hat, eye protection, ear protection, gloves, and sturdy boots.
Also, you should check that the tools are in good condition. All your cutting tools, such as chainsaws, pruners, and ropes, must be in good working condition. Also, these tools must be clean and sharp for clean and undamaged cuts. Read more
Step 4: Plan the cuts properly
You should map the tree limb cutting in your head as it eases out the process. So, first, decide which branches to remove. Then, you can plan your cuts accordingly. You may start with the smaller branches first to reduce the weight of larger ones.
Also, you must choose a clear escape route if a branch falls unexpectedly.
Step 5: Start cutting the tree limbs
You must choose the right cutting technique for the tree limbs.
- Begin with a notch cut on the underside of the branch. It should be just about 1-2 feet from the trunk. Also, the cut should be one-third of the way through the branch.
- Next, you can make an uppercut about 2-3 inches further from the notch cut. This cut will create a “hinge.” The hinge will allow you to control the direction of the falling branch.
- Then, you might perform the final cut just outside the branch collar. It is right in front of the raised area where the branch meets the trunk. Leave a slight stub for a safe and proper cutting strategy as you make the final cut.
Step 6: Control the Fall
You must also guide the branch’s fall as you make the final cut. You can control the fall with ropes or guidelines if necessary. You must also lower smaller branches gently to the ground. It will greatly minimise the impact of the tree branches falling and save your property.
Step 7: Cleanup and dispose of the debris
After you have removed each branch, check the tree for stability. Also, carefully assess the impact of the cut on the remaining branches. Next, you must clear away debris and branches from the work area as you go.
You should dispose of cut branches and debris safely. The disposal removal should follow local regulations. It will involve chipping, hauling, or recycling.
Conclusion
Reaching branches in tall trees can be particularly challenging for you. Therefore, always choose the right and stable ladder to reach the branches. Then, you may follow our guidelines on how to cut branches from a tall tree. The key is to assess the branch, height, and weight, map the cutting plan in your head and follow local regulations.
