Do you need a tree felling service, or advice as to which tree cutting service you require? Get in touch with the experts at Hassell and Sons, in our 40 year history there isn’t much we don’t know!
Tree felling refers to the deliberate and controlled cutting down of a tree. It is a process of completely removing a tree from its standing position. Tree felling is typically carried out for various reasons, such as safety concerns, land development, tree health issues, or landscaping purposes.
What are the reasons for felling a tree?
There are various reasons why a tree may need to be felled. Here are some common reasons for tree removal:
1. Disease or Decay: If a tree is severely diseased or decayed, it may pose a risk to surrounding trees, structures, or people. In such cases, removing the tree can help prevent the spread of disease and eliminate the danger of falling branches or the entire tree.
2. Structural Instability: Trees with structural issues such as extensive leaning, multiple trunks, or significant damage to the main trunk may become unstable and prone to falling. Felling such trees is necessary to ensure safety and prevent potential property damage.
3. Obstruction or Interference: Trees that obstruct construction or development projects, block utility lines, or interfere with buildings, roads, or other infrastructure may need to be removed to accommodate the necessary changes.
4. Root Damage or Encroachment: In some cases, tree roots can cause damage to foundations, underground pipes, or pavements. If efforts to mitigate the issue are unsuccessful, removing the tree may be the most practical solution.
5. Overcrowding or Competition: In dense woodland or landscape settings, trees can sometimes grow too closely together, leading to overcrowding and unhealthy competition for sunlight, water, and nutrients. Felling select trees can help improve the overall health and vitality of the remaining trees.
6. Landscape or Aesthetic Considerations: When a tree detracts from the desired landscape design or aesthetic appeal of a property, it may be deemed necessary to remove it. This could be to create space for new tree plantings or to achieve a more balanced and visually pleasing landscape.
7. Invasive Species: Invasive tree species that outcompete native vegetation and disrupt the ecosystem may need to be removed to prevent their spread and protect the native flora and fauna.
8. Tree Replacement: Sometimes, tree felling is done to make way for new tree plantings, allowing for the introduction of diverse and more suitable species or to address specific landscaping needs.
It is important to note that tree felling should be carried out by trained professionals such as Hassell and Sons, we follow local regulations and obtain any necessary permissions. Consulting with our certified arborists is recommended to assess the tree’s condition and determine the appropriate course of action.
How do you fell a tree?
The process of tree felling involves several steps to ensure safety and precision:
1. Planning: Before felling a tree, it is essential to assess the tree’s size, location, surrounding environment, and potential hazards. Factors such as the tree’s lean, the presence of nearby structures or obstacles, and the direction of its fall need to be carefully considered. Planning helps determine the best approach to safely bring down the tree.
2. Clearing the Area: The area surrounding the tree should be cleared of any obstacles, structures, or objects that could be damaged during the felling process. This ensures a safe working zone and minimises the risk of accidents or property damage.
3. Making a Felling Cut: A felling cut, also known as a notch, is made on the side of the tree facing the intended direction of fall. It involves creating a V-shaped or wedge-shaped cut in the trunk. The notch guides the tree’s fall in the desired direction, allowing for better control.
4. Back Cut: Once the notch is made, a horizontal cut is made on the opposite side of the tree, slightly above the bottom of the notch. This back cut is positioned to control the tree’s fall and create a hinge that directs the tree’s descent.
5. Tree Fall: As the back cut is made, the tree starts to lean and eventually falls in the predetermined direction. The speed and direction of the fall are carefully controlled by the person cutting the tree to ensure safety and avoid damage.
6. Tree Removal and Disposal: After the tree has fallen, it is important to remove the fallen tree from the area and dispose of it properly. This may involve cutting the tree into sections for easier removal or chipping the branches and trunk into mulch.
It is important to note that tree felling can be dangerous and should be undertaken by trained professionals or individuals with experience in tree cutting techniques. Safety precautions, such as using appropriate personal protective equipment and following established procedures, are vital to prevent accidents and injuries during the felling process.
Tree Stump Removal
After a tree has been felled, the remaining tree stump requires separate attention for its removal. Tree stump removal can be accomplished using various methods depending on the size of the stump and the desired outcome. Here are a few common techniques that you can use yourself, otherwise our tree stump removal Cheshire service comes highly reccomended:
1. Stump Grinding: This method involves using a specialised stump grinder to mechanically grind the stump into small wood chips. The stump grinder is maneuvered back and forth over the stump until it is ground down below the ground level. The resulting wood chips can be used as mulch or removed from the site.
2. Excavation: For larger stumps or when complete removal is necessary, excavation may be the preferred option. It involves using an excavator or similar equipment to dig around the stump, exposing the root system. The roots can then be severed using a chainsaw or axe, allowing for the complete removal of the stump.
3. Chemical Stump Removal: Another option is to use chemicals specifically designed to accelerate the natural decomposition of the stump. This method involves drilling holes into the stump and applying the chemical, which helps break down the wood over time. The decayed stump can then be easily removed.
4. Natural Decay: Alternatively, allowing the stump to naturally decay over time is also an option. This method involves cutting the stump as close to the ground as possible and leaving it to decompose naturally with the help of fungi and bacteria. It is a slower process, taking several years for the stump to completely break down.
When deciding on the best stump removal method, it is essential to consider factors such as the stump’s size, location, surrounding landscape, and personal preferences. For more complex or challenging stump removals, it is recommended to consult with a professional tree service such as Hassell and Sons. We can assess the situation and provide expert advice and assistance on tree stump removal costs and much more.
Do you need permission to cut a tree down?
In the UK, the regulations regarding tree felling and the need for permission can vary depending on the circumstances and the location of the tree. Here is a general overview of the permissions required for tree felling:
1. Protected Trees: Certain trees in the UK are protected by Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs) or are located within Conservation Areas. If a tree is protected by a TPO or located within a Conservation Area, you will need to obtain permission from the local planning authority before undertaking any tree felling or significant pruning. Failure to obtain the necessary permission can result in penalties.
2. Forestry Commission: If the tree felling is part of a larger forestry operation or if the land in question is covered by a woodland grant scheme, you may need to consult the Forestry Commission and follow their regulations and procedures.
3. Local Authority Regulations: Some local authorities may have additional regulations in place regarding tree felling, especially if the tree is located in a specific area such as a public park or nature reserve. It is important to check with the local authority to determine if any permissions or notifications are required.
It is recommended to contact your local planning authority or contact the professional tree surgeons at Hassell and Sons. We can provide guidance on the specific permissions and regulations applicable to your situation. They can assist you in navigating the process and ensuring compliance with the relevant regulations.
Tree felling with Hassell and Sons
At Hassell Grounds and Maintenance, whether you are seeking a tree surgeon in Cheshire or Manchester, our upmost priority is to provide exceptional service at competitive rates while ensuring customer satisfaction. Our team of knowledgeable experts are dedicated to equipping you with comprehensive information and guidance regarding your tree felling project, empowering you to make well-informed decisions about the next steps. Whether you require detailed insights into our specialised tree cutting service or any other tree surgeon services we offer, we encourage you to reach out to us without hesitation. Our professional tree surgeon services guarantee that your property will be left in impeccable condition, as if your trees have received an extraordinary haircut. Having started as a small family business tree surgeon in Knutsford, we have cultivated a team of skilled professionals who are committed to delivering work of the highest standards. Contact us today without delay for further information or to discuss your specific requirements. We are here to serve you and surpass your expectations.