Are you considering cutting down a tree in your yard? Reasons can range from a tree that's grown too large, is sick, or simply needing firewood. Whatever your reason, there are crucial steps to ensure the job goes as planned.

Identifying Where the Tree Should Land

The first thing to consider is where the tree will fall once it's cut down. This involves taking into account the tree's surroundings. As the tree will fall at its full height, your safety zone should be equivalent to this height.

It's essential to look for potential hazards like other trees, buildings, or power lines. If there's a risk of interfering with power lines, it's safest to let professionals handle the task.

Preparing to Cut Down a Tree

Once you've determined the falling direction, you need to remove the side branches up to around 5 feet from the base. Clear the area of any obstacles and plan an escape route to ensure you can retreat safely when the tree starts to fall.

Proper Positioning to Cut Down a Tree

For making the cut, lean your left shoulder against the tree with your elbow resting on your right knee. Position your left hand on the corner of the chainsaw handle while keeping your thumb on the throttle, all the while focusing on the planned falling direction.

How to Cut Down a Tree: Steps to Follow

Creating the Directional Notch

The first step to cut down a tree is creating a directional notch. This notch has a top and bottom cut and must meet several criteria:

• It should be performed on a tree with a diameter of at least 6 inches.
• The notch should be adjusted to the terrain (flat, slightly inclined, or steep).
• The notch's depth should be one third of an inch.

Making the Felling Cut

Next, it's time for the felling cut, which should be equivalent to 2/3 of the tree's diameter and performed opposite to the directional notch. This cut should be made about an inch higher than the notch.

The Hinge

After the notch and the felling cut are made, the hinge is visible. This unsawn area between the two cuts should be 1/10 of an inch in length.

Once the notch is closed, the crucial part of your tree cutting project begins! If the hinge doesn't break and the tree doesn't lean, a felling lever or a felling jack can be used to help you maneuver out of this deadlock.