How to Remove a Pine Tree

Pine trees need removal when they become sick or damaged due to weather. If they are not adequately taken care of, they can become a danger to you and your property.

When to Remove a Pine Tree

The most common signs that a pine tree needs removal are leaning, proximity to home or powerlines, excess sap, and discoloring needles. If not damaged, most of these signs are due to disease. If you notice any of these signs, it is crucial to contact an arborist as soon as possible.

Season

The best time to remove your Pine Tree is in the winter or early spring when the tree is dormant. The cold will make it easier for removal and have less of an effect on the surrounding foliage. While the cold winter season is preferred, remove trees at any time if they’re sick. While it can cause damage or injury if the tree falls, it can also hurt the ecosystem it lives in if not healthy.

Risk Assessment

When deciding to remove your pine tree, you should get a risk assessment before your final decision. Damaged trees do not always need to be removed and can sometimes recover by trimming and pruning. Even if you don’t notice any noticeable damage to your pine tree, it is necessary to have your pine tree inspected periodically. Tree inspections will prevent any unseen danger.

Pine Tree Removal

Once you have determined that you need your pine tree removed and when you will need to prepare before you begin by clearing a safe space and making sure you have the correct tools.

Preparation

Having a plan for your pine tree removal is imperative. Ensure that the area is cleared and develop a plan for the tree to fall in a specific spot not to cause damage to surrounding buildings or power lines. It is always a good idea to contact a tree specialist for pine tree removal. They have the correct tools and know-how to work safely around power lines.

Removal

Before cutting the tree trunk, remove all the branches from the tree. It will make it easier and accessible to cut the trunk. On the side you want the tree to fall towards, you will cut a horizontal notch about one-third of the way through the tree. The second notch will be about a foot or two above the first and create a triangle-shaped wedge. The second notch should be cut at a roughly 40* angle. Finally, on the opposite side, In between the two cuts, cut into the tree until it reaches the wedge. The tree will begin to fall, and it is important to move far away from the tree.

Tools

Pine tree removal requires rigging/climbing, cutting, and safety equipment. The rigging equipment is for climbing the trees to cut down and lowering large branches. You will need tools to trim and remove the branches. Chainsaw, hatches, and axes will also be needed for removing the trunk. Safety equipment is also necessary for tree removal. A first-aid kit, hardhat, safety goggles, and gloves will help to ensure your pine tree removal goes safely and smoothly.

Stump Removal

Stump removal is optional and up to the owner’s preference. When the time comes to remove the stump, there are multiple options. There are numerous ways to remove your pine tree stump.

Stump Grinding

Grinding a tree stump is relatively easy but can be expensive. If you are removing the tree yourself, chances are you do not own one. Renting them from your local store can be costly. If you choose to grind the stump, you will grind it down in 4-inch segments until it becomes mulch. Stump grinding is one of the best options for large stumps.

Digging

The least expensive option but most time-consuming is digging. You will loosen the soil surrounding the stump and cut away the roots and taproot. Once you have severed the roots and cut through the taproot, you will extract the stump.

Rotting

Tree stumps take years to rot, but you can chemically rot your tree stump sooner. It will take much longer than other methods, but it is the least labor-intensive. You will drill large holes throughout the stump that are close together. After you drill the holes, you will fill them with water and potassium nitrate. You can purchase the necessary chemicals at your local store.

Do You Need Your Pine Tree Removed?

Using machinery, removing branches, and renting the correct equipment can be daunting, but it doesn’t need to be! Contact LTRC-Tree Specialists in Alpharetta, GA at (404) 288 – 5872 for safe and affordable pine tree removal.