Trees add beauty, shade, and value to your property, but sometimes, one needs to come down. Whether it’s diseased, damaged, or growing too close to your home, removing a tree can be a major project.
While many homeowners search “how to cut down a tree,” it’s important to know this: tree removal is not a recommended DIY task. Even small trees can fall unpredictably, and the risk of serious injury or property damage is high.
This post explains what’s involved in the process, not to encourage DIY cutting, but to help you understand why professional tree removal is the safer choice.
Assess Before You Cut
Before even thinking about a saw, take a close look at the tree and its surroundings.
Ask yourself:
- Is the tree leaning or unstable?
- Are there signs of disease, rot, or hollow spots?
- Are there power lines, fences, or buildings nearby?
- Is there room for the tree to fall safely?
If any of these raise concern, do not attempt to cut it down yourself. Trees can weigh thousands of pounds, and a fall in the wrong direction can be devastating.
If you’re unsure, call a certified arborist. Founders Tree Co. can evaluate the situation and recommend the safest approach.
Gather the Right Equipment
Tree removal requires more than a chainsaw. Professionals use protective gear, heavy-duty saws, rigging ropes, wedges, and cranes when needed.
Even with proper equipment, experience is the biggest safety factor. Knowing how a tree will react once cutting begins takes years of training and practice.
At Founders Tree Co., our crews are trained to predict movement, control fall direction, and manage debris safely, something that’s nearly impossible to guarantee with a DIY attempt.
Plan the Fall Direction
Every tree falls differently, depending on its size, weight, and lean. Professionals use precise calculations, controlled cuts, and often rigging systems to direct the fall.If a tree is leaning toward your home, driveway, or power lines, do not try to correct or cut it yourself. A single misjudgment can cause a dangerous collapse.
Make the Proper Cuts
Understanding how cuts are made helps homeowners appreciate why trained experts are needed.
The notch cut: Made on the side facing the desired fall direction, about one-third into the trunk. This guides the fall.
The back cut: Made slightly above the notch on the opposite side. This releases the tension and allows the tree to fall. Even when done correctly, trees can twist or roll unexpectedly.
For safety reasons, Founders Tree Co. does not recommend homeowners attempt these cuts themselves.
After the Tree Falls
Once the tree is down, cleanup involves removing heavy limbs, cutting trunk sections, and grinding the stump. Without proper machinery, this can be back-breaking work, and hazardous if debris shifts unexpectedly.
In the Lake Norman and greater Charlotte area, Founders Tree Co. provides complete tree removal, stump grinding, and debris cleanup so you don’t have to take that risk.
Know When to Call a Pro
The short answer? Almost always. Tree removal is among the most dangerous home projects, especially when it involves height, power tools, or unpredictable weight shifts.
Our trained crews use cranes, harnesses, and controlled lowering systems to protect your home and property while keeping everyone safe.
Need a tree removed? Call Founders Tree Co.
Understanding how a tree is cut down gives you insight into the process, but not a green light to do it yourself. Every year, homeowners are injured attempting tree removals that go wrong.At Founders Tree Co., we handle this work safely, efficiently, and with care for your property.
Need a tree removed? Contact Founders Tree Co. for expert assessment and professional removal in the Lake Norman area, including Davidson, NC, Cornelius, NC, and Huntersville, NC.
