Cutting a pine tree down can be done as a DIY task. Use our step-by-step guide below.
How To Cut A Pine Tree Down
Follow the DIY steps outlined here to safely cut a pine tree down.
Step 1
- Begin this process by ensuring there is enough space for the tree to fall safely.
- Make sure the fallen tree will not damage any surrounding structures.
- You must be able to get out of the way safely before the tree falls, as well.
Step 2
- Completely clear the area under the tree.
- You can do this with the help of pruning spears if any branches need to be cut.
- Make sure you are wearing heavy-duty gloves during this task.
Step 3
- Using a chain saw, make the initial cut to the tree.
- This cut needs to face the direction the tree will ultimately fall.
- Make the cut about waist high of the cutter, horizontal, and a third of the way into the tree.
- Face shield, gloves, and ear protection should be worn, at this time.
Step 4
- Make the second cut into your pine tree.
- Make sure this one is above the first cut, also facing the way the tree will fall.
- The second cut should be made at a 45-degree angle.
- Do this at the tip of the cut to meet the first cut.
- The two cuts should form a triangular wedge.
Step 5
- Go to the opposite side of the tree where the triangular wedge is formed.
- You will make the final cut in this new location.
- The tree will start falling as the final cut reaches this wedge.
- Turn the chainsaw off and quickly move to a safe spot as the tree falls down.
DIY Vs Professional Pine Tree Removal
A lot of people assume tree removal is mostly about cutting the tree down and hauling it away. In reality, that is only part of it. Pine trees are tall, heavy, and often full of dense branching. That means the crew usually has to remove them in sections rather than just dropping the whole tree at once.
The closer the tree is to a roof, fence, garage, driveway, or neighboring property, the more careful the job has to be. That extra care takes more time, more labor, and sometimes more equipment. That is where the price tends to rise.
Another thing that affects cost is access. If the crew can get right to the tree with the right tools, the job is usually more straightforward. If the tree is tucked into a tight backyard or surrounded by obstacles, the work gets slower and more technical.
For most Arizona homeowners, pine tree removal usually falls somewhere between about $250 and $1,500 per tree. A small pine may cost around $250 to $450 to remove. A medium pine, usually somewhere in the 20 to 40 foot range, often lands around $400 to $800. A larger pine, especially one in the 40 to 60 foot range, can run $800 to $1,200, and in some cases more. Very large trees or trees in risky spots can push the total past that.
A pine tree can be a beautiful part of a property, but when it becomes unsafe or starts causing concern, it is worth dealing with it sooner rather than later. If you need help understanding the cost and safest next step, Arbor Care can help. Reach out today for a quote and get clear answers before a manageable problem turns into a much bigger one.
Tree Removal in Phoenix, AZ
If you need tree removal in Phoenix or anywhere else in the Phoenix Valley, give Arbor Care a call today at (480) 797-5566 or receive a free tree removal estimate in Phoenix. Our Service area includes Phoenix, Tempe, Chandler, Gilbert, Mesa, Tempe, Scottsdale, Glendale, Peoria, and Surprise, Arizona.
