How Do You Cut Down a Tree? Axed and Answered...

March 6, 2021 by Team HomeServe

Man suspended from a palm tree with a safety harness is using a chainsaw to remove the top of the tree

Tree Removal at a Glance

Tools and equipment: Handsaw, ax or chainsaw; goggles, gloves, helmet, earplugs, coveralls
Step 1: Safety check of surrounding area
Step 2: Plan which way tree will fall
Step 3: Cut notch
Step 4: Fell tree
Step 5: Remove tree

Trees provide oxygen, shade, visual interest to the landscape and homes for wildlife. Still, they aren't always a welcome feature of your yard — especially if they’re large, damaged or too close to your house. Cutting down an unwanted tree can be a do-it-yourself project.

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If you have the right equipment, it’s possible to safely cut a tree without professional assistance. Here's a basic guide to get you started.

Why Cut Down or Remove a Tree?

Trees can be a beautiful aspect of your landscaping. Some homeowners invest in tree care because having certain types of trees in your yard can increase property value. But there are some reasons you might want to remove a tree, including:

Damage

Trees that are dead, dying, diseased or damaged by a storm or wildlife can be dangerous. The tree may need to be removed before it falls and causes damage or infects other trees. A damaged tree might simply be an eyesore.

Bad Location

Perhaps the tree is too close to the house and the roots are threatening your foundation. Maybe it’s in the middle of the spot where the new pool will go. In some cases, the tree itself might be damaged by construction or landscaping plans because of where it is.

Annoyance

Some trees drop a lot of debris. Sap, seeds or fruit can cause damage, especially if you park near the tree or it hangs above a patio. Trees can also be home to insects and animals that you may find disturbing.

Too Many Trees

Maybe you simply have too many trees. As they grow, they could compete with and even damage each other.

Cutting Down a Tree: DIY Steps

Felling a tree goes well beyond basic lawn care, so it's a good idea to plan ahead. Here’s a basic step-by-step guide:

1. Safety First

Check the surrounding area. Are there power lines near where the tree could fall? If the tree is large, is there a chance it could fall on your home, outbuildings, vehicles or even a person?

2. Make a Plan

Before you cut, decide where you want the tree to fall — typically into a totally clear part of the yard. You'll need to cut the tree in a way that encourages it to fall in that direction. You can also guide the tree by tying rope around it and having someone pull on it after you've made some cuts. It's important to note that a tree that's heavy on one side (because more branches grow there, for instance) will fall to that heavy side without any other force on it.

3. Cut a Notch

Make a cut on the side of the tree that faces where you want it to fall. Depending on the size of the tree, your equipment and your experience level, you can cut the notch with a hand saw, ax or chainsaw. Begin with a cut that angles down 45 degrees and goes about one-third of the way into the tree. Then, make a horizontal cut below that one, creating a sort of pie slice of missing wood in the trunk.

4. Fell the Tree

Cut from the opposite side of the trunk toward the notch. You typically do not need to cut all the way through; if you reach within half an inch of the notch, the tree is likely to begin falling — especially if you use ropes to pull it. Just ensure everyone who is manipulating the ropes is clear of the fall zone.

5. Remove the Tree

Carefully use a chainsaw to cut off all branches and then cut the branches and trunk down into pieces that can be moved. Cut them up for firewood or haul them off.

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How to Cut Down a Tree With a Chainsaw

You can use the above steps if you’re cutting your tree with a chainsaw. If you're dealing with a tree more than a few inches thick, a chainsaw can save you a lot of time and sore muscles. It will take quite a few swings to bring down even a medium-sized tree with an ax.

Always follow good safety practices when you're cutting trees or branches. Wear safety equipment, such as goggles, gloves and a helmet. If you're working with a chainsaw, ear protection is also a good idea. Chaps or coveralls made of Kevlar or another thick material can also protect your body while working with a chainsaw.

When to Get a Pro Involved

Tree removal isn't always a DIY job. Here are some circumstances when you’ll probably want to call an expert:

The tree is extremely large or tall (especially if you can't accurately estimate where the tree might fall)
There are power lines or other hazards
You want the entire tree (including the stump and roots) removed
You aren't comfortable using a chainsaw

Since we’re all home now more than ever, being prepared for unexpected home repairs with a plan from HomeServe is important. Having a plan in place gives you the peace of mind knowing that you can simply call our 24/7 repair hotline for covered breakdowns. See what plans are available in your neighborhood.