Unless you’re an arborist, it is always best to leave tree removal to professionals. That’s because there are a number of risks involved, such as injury and property damage.
A DIY tree remover could also face legal repercussions if the removal is done in violation of local laws. For example, some towns prohibit removal of trees that pose a threat to power lines or private right-of-way easements.
Contents
Safety First
When removing a tree yourself, make sure you’re wearing the right safety equipment. This includes heavy gloves, sturdy boots, a hard hat and safety goggles.
Estimate the “felling zone” around the tree and mark it appropriately to protect you, your work partner, family members, pets, and pedestrians Tree Removal Cary NC. To estimate, hold an ax at arm’s length and close one eye, then walk until the top and bottom of the ax are lined up with the treetop and base.
Be sure to have a safe way to retreat from the tree, and plan a second escape route in case the first one is blocked by debris or the tree starts to fall.
This is why we recommend using a qualified tree removal specialist instead of trying to remove a large tree on your own. Otherwise, you could end up hurt or killed. It’s just not worth it!
Equipment
Trees can be dangerous if they are removed incorrectly, falling on people or property. This is why they should be removed by a professional.
If you want to remove a tree yourself, it is important to have the right equipment. This will make the process faster and less dangerous for everyone involved Arborist Tauranga. The type of equipment you need depends on the size and location of the tree. Larger trees will require more heavy-duty equipment.
For example, if you have a tree that’s near power lines or your home, it may require special machinery like cranes to fell the entire tree safely.
Smaller trees, such as fruit and hawthornes, usually cost between $150 and $500 to remove. A medium-sized tree, such as a maple or elm, will cost between $600 and $1,000.
Legality
In New York, removing a tree without the owner’s permission is illegal. This means you could be fined or forced to appear in court if a neighbor cuts down a tree on your property.
If you’re unsure whether or not your tree is protected by the law, check with an arborist. They can help you understand the legality of a tree, how tall it is, and what your rights are regarding its removal.
Even if a tree on your property is in poor condition or dead, you may not be allowed to remove it by yourself without a permit. This is particularly true if it’s on public land.
On the other hand, if you’re on private property, you can remove trees that are a danger to others. However, you’ll need to prove that you’ve done this in a responsible and safe manner. If you have any concerns, it’s a good idea to consult an arborist or landscape architect.
Stump Removal
Whether you’re dealing with a stump that is too large or problematical to remove, or just want to try your hand at it, stump removal can be a great DIY project. The process requires a little bit of patience, but it’s not as hard as you might think.
The first step is to soften the stump, according to Lisa Tadewaldt, owner of Urban Forest Pro (opens in new tab). She recommends using a chemical product that will speed up wood decay and make it easier to remove.
Next, drill several holes about eight inches deep into the top of the stump and more on its sides. Fill them with a commercial tree stump remover formula that’s available at your local hardware store. Then, pour boiling water into each hole to help the chemicals dissolve. Leave the solution for a few weeks and check on your progress regularly.