Process For Removing Trees From Utility Lines

Trees that are growing into power lines pose a real danger of electrocution or fire. Removal may be necessary, and it isn't a DIY job due to the dangers involved. The following are the concerns that the tree removal company must address when removing the dangerous tree.

Utility Notification

The tree service will contact the relevant utility companies before removal can commence. In most cases, this involves contacting the power company, but it may be necessary to also contact the phone or cable company if they also have lines on the pole. Power at the pole may need to be turned off during the removal, depending on how entangled the branches are in the line. If this is the case, then any residences affected by a temporary power outage will also need to be notified. The tree service may also need to notify underground utilities, such as the gas and water companies, if you will be having the roots dug out of the lawn.

Branch Trimming

On the day of the removal, the service will begin by trimming off the branches before taking down the tree. Taking down the tree one branch at a time minimizes the chances of the tree pulling down the power lines or causing any damage to nearby structures below. This process is not for amateurs, as the overall balance of the tree must be maintained during branch removal so that the tree trunk doesn't break under the uneven weight. 

Trunk Sectioning

Once the tree is bare of branches, it's time to bring down the remaining trunk. For relatively short trees, the service may bring down the entire trunk at once. More care is needed for taller trees. Usually, the service will section the trunk, bringing down short sections from the top down. Cables may be attached to the section before removal so that it can be lowered down carefully once a technician has cut through the trunk. How many sections are necessary depends on the height of the tree and the danger posed to the utility lines or nearby structures.

Stump Removal

Stump grinding is the most common stump removal method. The service will use a grinding machine to grind down the stump well below the soil level. Once this is done, you can begin the lawn recovery process on the site. In some cases, it may be desirable to pull the stump, such as if you hope to plant a smaller tree or shrub in the area. 

Contact a tree removal service for more help with hazardous tree removal.

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