Tree cutting DIY?

sujsuj

I need to cut the main branch of this tree before starting work on my stable's roofing. The tree is awkwardly leaning, making the task more challenging. My plan is to use a chainsaw to cut it slowly, aiming for a controlled fall onto the roof, which has already collapsed due to rotten wood.

Do you have any tips for this? Is it too risky to attempt as a DIY project?

Section62

sujsuj said:

Do you have any tips for this? Is it too risky to attempt as a DIY project?

Yes, I'd class it as a high-risk operation.  Get someone to do it for you who has the right equipment and experience.

sujsuj said:I need to cut the main branch of this tree before starting work on my stable's roofing. The tree is awkwardly leaning, making the task more challenging. My plan is to use a chainsaw to cut it slowly, aiming for a controlled fall onto the roof, which has already collapsed due to rotten wood.

The famous last words of many would-be tree surgeons.  Trees don't always behave predictably when you start cutting them... and they really mess you up if part falls on you, or you fall off it.  Even the pros get it wrong from time to time - google the subject if you want the gory details.

Having bought and paid for the shed materials it would be a real shame if you never got to finish the job.

casper_gutman

I've attempted some possibly unwise DIY tree trimming in the past, but brought in the pros to fell a tree that was overhanging a shed I didn't want to demolish. Their approach was amazing: cutting it in sections after attaching safety ropes so each piece effectively ended up sliding right across the garden on an impromptu zip line, something I'd never have thought of still less pulled off successfully.

I'd be very wary of attempting your job as a bit of DIY. The size of the branch is one issue, and the way it's overhanging the stable, plus the fact that there's so much weight hanging off to the side means it's likely to suddenly break very violently when you cut it. Be careful!

Eldi_Dos

Is that a own goal in second picture? it would be best to remove that before getting professionals in to carry out the work.

Grenage

I would also recommend a professional.  Branches take no prisoners and it's just not worth the risk.

ThisIsWeird

You will not believe the weight of that branch.
It's going to do what it wants, if you give it the opportunity, and you'll have no way of stopping it.
If you, say, tie a rope to it, chances are that the snapping rope will have you, and not the actual branch. It is just far too large.
But, it sure would be fun to watch.

subjecttocontract

I'd say you have less than a 50:50 chance of surviving the exercise. Get the professionals in.

RAS

I'd suggest you start by checking whether there is a TPO on the tree? Presumably it wouldn't be too hard to get permission to remove that limb even if the tree is protected.

If that's ash, no way should someone unqualified be working on it. It's known as the widow maker for a reason.

pseudodox

Deffo not a DIY job.  What value do you place on being seriously injured, paralysed or even killed?  I volunteer with our local countryside rangers who are all certified & experienced chainsaw operatives but even they would not touch that limb.  It requires a qualified & insured tree surgeon with climbing gear & safety lines.  If you go down the DIY route this might be your final post on MSE!

FlorayG

I can't believe you're even asking. How are you going to get up there? NOBODY who isn't fully trained should be using a chainsaw above ground level and that's a really, really dangerous limb with that angle, it needs roping before cutting otherwise you have no idea where it's going to fall. Please don't attempt it

subjecttocontract

All very good advice.
If however you do try a DIY job and you suddenly find yourself walking in a field of clover with the sun on your back, do not worry. Your probably already dead and it's someone else's problem !