The Most Common Tree Felling Mistakes (And How to Avoid Them)
Felling a tree requires precision, planning, and an understanding of how trees react to cuts. Even experienced individuals can make mistakes that lead to unpredictable falls, property damage, or serious injuries. While professional arborists train extensively to perfect their techniques, many DIYers and even some professionals make errors that compromise safety.
This article outlines the most common tree felling mistakes and how to avoid them, ensuring that trees fall as intended with minimal risk.
1. Misjudging the Tree’s Lean and Weight Distribution
One of the biggest miscalculations in tree felling is failing to correctly assess the tree’s natural lean. Trees are rarely perfectly vertical. Some lean slightly due to environmental factors such as wind exposure, nearby structures, or uneven ground.
The mistake occurs when the tree’s lean is ignored, causing it to fall in an unintended direction. A miscalculated lean can lead to a tree falling onto buildings, power lines, or nearby trees, creating dangerous situations.
How to Avoid This Mistake:
Stand back and observe the tree from multiple angles to assess its natural lean.
Look at the weight distribution of branches, as heavier limbs can shift the fall direction.
Use a plumb line or a straight tool to align with the tree’s center of gravity before making the first cut.
2. Cutting Too Deep Into the Hinge
The hinge is the most critical element in controlling a tree’s fall. It is the strip of uncut wood that remains between the notch and the back cut, allowing the tree to pivot and fall in a controlled manner.
When the hinge is cut too thin or completely severed, the tree loses all control, making its fall unpredictable. On the other hand, a hinge that is too thick can prevent the tree from falling at all, leaving it in a dangerous, unstable position.
How to Avoid This Mistake:
Maintain a hinge that is about 10% of the tree’s diameter for optimal control.
Avoid cutting too close to the notch when making the back cut.
Ensure that the back cut is slightly above the bottom of the notch to maintain hinge strength.
3. Choosing the Wrong Notch Type for the Situation
Different tree felling notches serve different purposes. Selecting the wrong notch for the tree’s size, slope, or location can lead to inefficient or unsafe results.
For example, using a conventional notch when an open-faced notch would provide better control could increase the risk of the tree falling in an unintended direction. Similarly, attempting to fell a large tree on a slope with a notch designed for flat terrain can result in instability.
How to Avoid This Mistake:
Use an open-faced notch for maximum control, especially near structures.
Choose a conventional notch for fast and effective felling in open areas.
Opt for a Humboldt notch when working on steep slopes or dealing with very large trees.
4. Ignoring Wind and Environmental Factors
External conditions play a significant role in tree felling. Many people overlook the impact of wind, nearby obstacles, or the condition of the tree itself. A sudden gust of wind can shift the fall direction unexpectedly, while decayed or hollowed-out sections of a tree can cause an unpredictable break during the fall.
How to Avoid This Mistake:
Check weather conditions before starting. Avoid felling trees in high winds or wet conditions.
Inspect the tree for decay, cracks, or weak spots that could impact its stability.
Clear the area around the tree to ensure there are no obstructions in the intended fall zone.
5. Making the Back Cut Too Low or Too High
The back cut is the final step that allows the tree to begin falling. If this cut is made too low, it can weaken the hinge too soon, causing the tree to fall before the cutter is ready. If the cut is made too high, it can reduce the effectiveness of the notch, making the tree fall in an unintended direction.
How to Avoid This Mistake:
Always make the back cut slightly above the bottom of the notch.
Keep the cut level and parallel to the ground to maintain hinge effectiveness.
Use a chainsaw with a sharp chain to ensure a clean and controlled cut.
6. Felling Trees Without an Escape Plan
Many accidents occur because the person felling the tree does not have a clear and safe exit route. Once a tree starts falling, there is no time to react if it shifts in an unexpected direction. Without a planned escape path, the cutter risks serious injury.
How to Avoid This Mistake:
Plan and clear an escape path at a 45-degree angle away from the expected fall direction.
Remove any obstacles in the escape path before starting.
Stay alert and be ready to move as soon as the tree starts to fall.
7. Using a Chainsaw Without Proper Training or Safety Gear
One of the most dangerous mistakes is attempting to fell a tree without the necessary skills or protective equipment. A chainsaw is a powerful tool that requires training to operate safely. Lack of experience can lead to kickbacks, unstable cuts, or improper handling that puts both the cutter and bystanders at risk.
How to Avoid This Mistake:
Wear proper safety gear, including a helmet, eye protection, gloves, chainsaw chaps, and steel-toed boots.
Maintain a firm grip on the chainsaw and use both hands at all times.
Take a chainsaw safety course before attempting tree felling.
Final Thoughts: Safety and Professional Expertise Matter
Tree felling is a complex task that requires precision and planning. Even small miscalculations can result in accidents, property damage, or injury. The safest approach is to understand these common mistakes and either take every precaution or leave the job to certified arborists.
Disclaimer:
This article is for informational purposes only. It does not constitute professional advice or training. Tree felling is dangerous and should only be performed by trained professionals with proper safety equipment. If you need a tree removed, consult a certified arborist.
