What tree-cutting equipment is essential? In this post, our team at Dead or Alive Tree Service LLC, your professional tree service in Port Orange, FL, answers this question for homeowners. If you want this information for a commercial project, refer to OHSA guidelines for tree removals as well.
Essential Equipment
Although professionals each have their own techniques and processes, every reputable tree-cutting expert will use the following equipment.
1. A Chainsaw
A chainsaw makes short work of chopping a tree down, so many professional tree services use these tools. While these tools are easy to use, they can also be dangerous, so research your options carefully.
Your first decision is how to power the chainsaw:
- Gas is the way to go for hardwood or large trees. They are, however, expensive and emit fumes.
- Electrical models are better for the planet, quieter, and easier to handle, but they have less power, and you must plug them in.
- Battery-powered units are mobile and lightweight, making them well-suited for quick jobs. However, the battery life is short, which might be problematic.
The other thing to think about is how big you need to go. For instance, a 14 to 16-inch model will work for general yard work and trimming branches. Leave anything bigger up to a tree professional.
2. Handsaws
Handsaws come in many shapes and sizes, so there is one for every project. Additionally, they don’t need electricity or much storage space. Keep a few handy so that you can trim branches or cut piping.
3. Pole Saw
A pole saw, much like it sounds, is a small chainsaw on the end of a long pole. The long handle makes the hazardous task of tree lopping easier because you stand on the ground when you use it.
4. Ax or Branch Cutter
An ax is a piece of tree-cutting equipment that everyone should have because it doesn’t need electricity or gas to work. Use it to chop down a tree and to cut up the wood afterward.
5. Wedge
We use wedges for one of two reasons. First, we slide the wedge into the open wound to create a gap so that the saw can move freely without the tree falling back onto it. Second, we wedge the opening wider so that the tree starts to lean toward the direction it needs to fall.
6. Hatchet
These hand-held tools are smaller versions of the ax and can slice through small limbs or young saplings. You don’t need both hands with a hatchet.
7. Wood Chipper
A wood chipper isn’t essential, but we’ve included it here because it can prove useful if you have a lot of trees or woody shrubs. You can make mulch out of garden debris with this device.
Save Time and Space in Your Shed
Professionals also use protective clothing like a helmet, safety glasses, gloves, and a harness when cutting trees. The costs for tree-cutting equipment for chopping trees and removing tree roots add up quickly. Save money and storage space by calling Dead or Alive Tree Service LLC at (386) 333-2252 instead.