How Do Professionals Safely Notch A Tree For Directional Felling?

​When you are cutting a notch on a mature tree, you need to make sure it falls away from any property or people. Homeowners can hurt themselves and others around them if they try to do this alone. Tree cutting service Dayton OH companies have arborists who understand the logistics of directional felling and therefore can help you.
You require more than just a chainsaw to notching a tree. Which direction is the tree leaning towards? At what angle is the tree inclining? What all is there surrounding the tree? These are the questions professionals ask when deciding on the best notching and cutting technique for your tree.
Continue reading to learn more about how professionals safely notch a tree. 

​The 3 Notch Methods Professionals Use To Cut A Tree Safely

It is not just about knowing the different notches used, but also when and how they should be used. If the notch opening in the tree is not angled correctly, the whole operation can fall apart. Tree cutting service Dayton OH companies have arborists who can make a notch opening at the right angle for an even and safe cut.
Here are the 3 notch methods arborists commonly use. 

1. The Open-Faced Notch 

​This approach is used when the tree is in a tight corner. Tight spots make it harder to angle your notch opening and therefore require a high level of accuracy. This approach requires a lot more time but is the most secure method out of the three mentioned here.
An open-faced notch is when the arborist makes a wide sideways “V” cut. The cut is made at 70 degrees or more. The 70 degrees angling allows for the hinge cut from the back to guide the falling tree. 

2. The Conventional Notch 

​It is not as accurate as an open-faced notch, but it can assure safety and fast pace cutting at the same time. In this, the uppercut is at a 45 degrees angle, while the bottom cut is straight and horizontal.  

3. The Humboldt Notch 

This notch is essentially the conventional notch but reversed. The uppercut is horizontal and the bottom cut is at an upwards 45 degrees angle. This is typically done for trees on steep slopes or for those prone to splitting. 

Final Thoughts

​Tree cutting requires professionals to use notching techniques that preserve the wood and ensure everyone’s safety. Tree cutting service Dayton OH companies have professional arborists who have both the knowledge and the tools to help you.
Tree services like NOS Tree Service offer an entire team to notch the tree and remove the stump left behind.