How to Cut Down a Tall Tree
You may need to cut down a tall tree because is deteriorating and rotting. In some locales, you could receive a ticket for leaving a dead tree in your yard. Or you may want to chop down a tree to sell the logs or use as firewood. Cutting down a tall tree will require several hours of your time. You should have help during the process. Does this Spark an idea?
Other People Are Reading
Things You'll Need
- Chainsaw
- Pruning shears/saw
- Axe
- Shovel
- Helmet
- Protective goggles and gloves
- Thick boots and leg protectors
Instructions
-
-
1
Plan the fall of the tree. Make sure nothing is obstructing its fall, such as another tree, fence, house or a person. The path should be completely clear. Prepare yourself with plenty of safety equipment such as thick boots, goggles, helmet, gloves and leg protectors.
-
2
Cut a wedge into the tall tree with a chainsaw. The side you cut the first wedge into will be the direction the tree will fall. Cut into the tall tree about waist level. Make the first cut downward into the tree at an angle of 45 degrees. Cut one-third toward the middle of the trunk. Then cut straight up about 1 foot.
-
-
3
Finish the wedge. Cut into the tall tree downward to complete cutting out a wedge. Once this is removed, the tall tree may begin to fall. Be prepared to move out of the way immediately.
-
4
Cut another wedge on the opposite side of the tree trunk if it didn't fall. This wedge will be smaller than the first and a little higher, but will make the tree finally fall.
-
5
Clean up the fallen tree. Start by cutting off the branches with a saw or pruner and then the trunk with the chainsaw. Cut the trunk into logs of 9 feet if selling or 3 feet for firewood. If the tall tree is rotted, cut the trunk small enough for the tree to be picked up by the city.
-
6
Remove what is left of the trunk of the tall tree. Use an axe to remove as much of the remaining trunk. Then shovel a trench around the circumference of the stump of the tree. If the tree is dead, it will not be difficult to remove what is left. If it was a healthy tree, you will need to cut into the roots with the shovel or an axe to break the stump free from the ground.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
If the chainsaw gets caught up into the tree trunk it can kick some pieces back toward you. Stop the chainsaw immediately and try again.
