How to Cut Down a Tree That's Leaning
- 1). Study the direction of the tree's lean from at least two angles to determine where it will fall. Take wind direction, power lines, streets, buildings and other trees into account. Get all movable objects out of the vicinity. If the tree is large and leaning toward your house, stop and call a tree service. If not, proceed.
- 2). Put on safety glasses and canvas gloves. Plan at least one escape route away from the tree, and practice escape scenarios until you're confident you can get away from the tree's fall.
- 3). Start the chainsaw and set the blade at a 45-degree angle on the side facing the direction of the tree's lean. Cut down to the center of the trunk and stop. Back out the blade and make another cut 8 to 10 inches lower, moving horizontally back to the first cut, creating a open-V notch.
- 4). Go to the other side of the tree. Make a third, horizontal cut just above the point of the notch, creating a hinge. Do not cut all the way through. As the blade nears the closed end of the notch the tree will fall of its own weight. Watch for any twisting of the trunk and move away in the opposite direction.
- 5). Step back and away from the tree as it falls, or the cut end may bounce up and hit you. Wait until the tree stops rocking on the ground, then move in. Cut the large limbs from the trunk, then cut the trunk into sections for chipping, composting or firewood.
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