3 Trimming Tasks That Professional Arborists Should Handle
Posted on: 23 February 2022
Ideally, tree trimming should be as simple as cutting branches to promote healthy growth. In reality, tree trimming is complicated and can be risky, especially in the situations discussed below.
Trimming Trees Near Power Lines
Trimming or cutting trees near power lines isn't a DIY job. Don't attempt to climb that tree and trim the branches. In high winds, the tree can be swayed towards the power lines. When this happens, the trees create a path for the electricity to travel to the ground.
If you're on the tree trying to trim it, you're at risk of being electrocuted. This can cause injuries such as electrical burns or even death. Similarly, trees close to power lines can also catch fire when the dry leaves touch the power lines. Live trees can conduct electricity while dead trees can't. However, this doesn't mean that trimming dead branches near power lines is safer.
Don't risk your life by trimming trees nearby because anything can happen. For example, your trimming can touch the power or service lines by accident leading to electrocution or fire. Instead, hire a tree trimming professional who understands and has the tools to work around such a risky environment.
Trimming Overhanging Branches
Removing large branches hanging over your home is necessary but also challenging. Cutting small, thin branches is doable since their weight will have no impact on the roof. On the other hand, larger branches can break off, injure a person, your pets, or damage your roof.
This task requires precision and skills provided by a professional tree arborist. Trimming such branches is risky because you'll need to climb onto your roof or tree to get good cutting angles. In some cases, you'll have to lean towards the house or tree.
Trimming Large Branches
You need to be extremely careful when dealing with large branches at least a few inches wide. It's not a difficult task because you can always chop off the branches with a handsaw or chainsaw. The issue is how you cut it and its impact on the healing process.
Ideally, hire a tree arborist to avoid mistakes such as cutting the branch too short or long. If you cut the branch too short, you risk damaging the collar. This makes it harder for the tree to heal, which is why some trees have holes or seeping wounds.
For more information on tree trimming, contact a tree service company.
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