How to Fell Dead Trees
- 1). Examine the tree, looking for wounds. Felling a dead tree can be problematic; if it is rotten or has a hollow core, you can't be sure how much wood is holding the tree up, according to the University of Missouri Extension website. You may have difficulty controlling the direction of the fall or it may fall prematurely. Call a professional arborist if you have doubts.
- 2). Select the direction you want the tree to fall. If the tree is leaning, choose the direction of the lean if that is practical. Make sure there is nothing the tree will damage when it falls. Clear any debris away from the base of the tree that might impede your escape route when the tree falls.
- 3). Make a V-shaped cut in the side of the trunk that faces the direction you want the tree to fall. Make this cut, called an under cut, through one-quarter of the tree's diameter and locate it about 1 foot off the ground.
- 4). Cut into the opposite side of the tree about 1 to 2 inches higher than the undercut. This cut, called a back cut, should be straight into the tree and about one-quarter the diameter of the tree. Never cut through to the undercut, according to the University of Missouri Extension; this could cause you to lose control of the tree.
- 5). If using a chain saw, shut it off as soon as the cuts are made. Move out of the way of the tree while it falls.
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