3 Types of Tree Felling Cuts
When it comes to taking down a tree safely, technique is everything
Tree felling is the process of cutting down a tree and having it fall in the direction you want it to go. Typically, this involves making angled cuts to create a notch. This notch acts as a hinge, encouraging the tree to fall in the desired direction. To form a notch, a professional will first make a top cut about 1/3 of the way into the trunk. Usually, they’ll cut downward at a 45 degree angle, although sometimes the top cut is horizontal. Next, they’ll make the bottom cut, which is often angled upward between 20-45 degrees to meet the top cut. Lastly, the back cut is made on the opposite side of the tree where the notch is; this is usually a horizontal cut.
The exact types of tree felling cuts used will depend on factors such as tree placement, land grade, and skill level. The notch you choose will determine how long the hinge works and when it will break. Here’s a look at the most common types of notches and their pros and cons.
1. Conventional Notch
One of the most common tree felling notches is the conventional notch. With the conventional notch, the top cut is angled downwards at 45 degrees and the bottom cut is horizontal.
The back cut should be made at least an inch above the bottom cut. Remember that the back cut is made on the opposite side of the tree. The point of the notch closure is at the middle of the fall.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Leaves a lower stump | Danger of tree kicking back as it falls |
| Can be good for split prone trees | Less controlled fell |
| Allows the tree to break easily | The hinge can break early |
Best for: Trees on level ground.
2. Humboldt Notch
The humboldt notch is typically utilized out west for larger trees and for felling trees on steep hillsides. It is basically an upside-down conventional notch. So, the top cut is horizontal, and the bottom cut is angled upwards 45 degrees.
The back cut should be made at least an inch above the top cut. This technique's point of notch closure is also in the middle of the fall.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Can save more usable wood | Higher risk of kickback |
| Can make large trees fall more freely | Difficult notch to master correctly |
| Good for trees that are prone to splitting | Hinge can break early |
Best for: Tall trees on steep slopes and trees that are prone to splitting.
3. Open-Faced Notch
The open-faced notch is considered to be the safest notch to use and has a larger angle than the others. The total angle can be 70 degrees, but a 90-degree angle is ideal. The top cut is angled downward 70 degrees, and the bottom cut is angled upwards 20 degrees.
The back cut is horizontal and should be made level at the corner of the notch. Unlike the other notches, the point of the notch closure for this technique is just before the tree lands on the ground.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Less risk of kickback | Leaves a large stump |
| Higher level of accuracy | May have to cut the hinge off |
| Hinge stays intact longer | Takes longer to cut |
Best for: Trees that need a higher level of accuracy, or for felling on slopes.
DIY vs. Hiring a Pro
Felling trees is extremely dangerous and, if done incorrectly, can lead to severe injuries or even death. You should not attempt to do it yourself if you are not properly trained to do so.
Trees can kick back towards you, fall in the wrong direction, and even “pinch” the saw to where it is stuck in the tree. Chainsaws can also kick back, causing injuries. In some instances, professionals may even take the tree down in sections because it is too dangerous to fell.
Hiring a professional tree cutting company near you will reduce the risk of property damage and severe or fatal injuries. The average cost for tree removal is around $750, but it can range from $200 to $2,000 or more. However, keeping your property in good condition and staying safe is worth the expense.