Congratulations on successfully felling that backyard tree! Whether it was for safety, space, or simply a change of scenery, bringing down a tree is a big job. But the work isn't over yet. The next steps involve safely and efficiently processing the tree and managing the stump. Here's a breakdown of what to do now.

 

1. Safety First, Always

Before you even think about the next cut, re-evaluate the site.

  • Assess the Area: Are there any hanging branches ("widowmakers") still caught in other trees? Is the trunk stable?
  • Clear the Area: Ensure children, pets, and bystanders are well away from the work zone.
  • Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Don't skimp on safety gear. You should be wearing:
    • Chainsaw Chaps: Essential for protecting your legs from accidental cuts.
    • Hard Hat: Protects against falling debris.
    • Safety Glasses/Goggles: Shields your eyes from sawdust and flying chips.
    • Hearing Protection: Chainsaws are loud; protect your ears.
    • Gloves: For grip and to prevent splinters.
    • Steel-toed Boots: For foot protection.

 

2. Limb, Buck, and Stack: Processing the Tree

This is where the real work of breaking down the tree begins.

  • Limbing: Start by removing all the branches from the trunk.
    • Work from the base of the tree towards the top, removing smaller branches first.
    • Be mindful of "spring poles" – branches under tension that can snap violently when cut. Always cut from the compression side.
    • Keep your working area clear as you go; don't let cut branches accumulate and create tripping hazards.
  • Bucking: Once the trunk is clear of branches, cut it into manageable sections (often referred to as "rounds" or "logs").
    • The length of these sections will depend on what you plan to do with the wood (e.g., 16-inch or 18-inch for firewood, longer for milling).
    • Be aware of "bar pinch" if cutting logs that are resting on the ground. Use wedges or roll the log to ensure the cut opens rather than closing on your chainsaw bar.
    • Always try to cut logs into sizes you can safely lift or roll.
  • Stacking/Piling: As you cut, move the limbs and bucked logs to designated piles.
    • Separate branches (for chipping or brush pile) from logs (for firewood or milling).
    • If you're keeping firewood, stack it neatly in a location where it can dry properly, preferably off the ground and covered from the top.

 

3. What to Do with the Wood and Brush

Now that you have piles of wood and brush, you have several options:

  • Firewood: If the tree species is suitable (e.g., maple, oak, birch, ash), process the logs into firewood. This is where a Wallenstein log splitter truly shines. After bucking your logs into rounds, a Wallenstein log splitter will make quick and efficient work of turning them into ready-to-stack firewood, saving you immense time and physical effort compared to splitting by hand. Remember, "green" wood needs to be seasoned for 6-12 months (or more) before it burns efficiently.
  • Wood Chips/Mulch: For the branches and smaller debris, a wood chipper is invaluable.
    • Wallenstein Wood Chipper: If you frequently manage trees or brush on your property, investing in a Wallenstein wood chipper can be a game-changer. These robust, Canadian-made machines efficiently turn branches and brush into useful wood chips that you can use for landscaping, garden mulch, or to enrich compost.
    • Rent a Wood Chipper: If this is a one-off project, renting a chipper (check local equipment rental stores in surrounding areas) is often the most cost-effective solution.
    • Hire a Service: Many arborists or landscaping companies offer chipping services where they come to your property and chip the brush for you.
    • Compost/Brush Pile: If chipping isn't an option, you can create a brush pile in an out-of-the-way corner of your property (check local bylaws first). This provides habitat for wildlife but can be unsightly.
    • Curbside Pickup/Transfer Station: Some municipalities offer brush collection or have transfer stations where you can drop off woody debris. Check with the Township or Municipality waste management guidelines.
  • Milling: If you have large, straight sections of valuable timber, you might consider having them milled into lumber for construction projects. This requires specialized equipment like a portable sawmill.
  • Disposal: If none of the above are suitable, you may need to arrange for professional waste removal.

 

4. Dealing with the Stump

The tree is down, but the stump remains. You have a few choices here:

  • Leave It: If it's not in the way, a stump can be a natural feature, providing a place for plants or even breaking down naturally over many years.
  • Stump Grinding: This is the most common and efficient method for removing a stump. A stump grinder pulverizes the stump into wood chips and sawdust, leaving a level area where you can plant grass or other vegetation. You can rent a stump grinder or hire a professional service.
  • Chemical Removal: Products designed to accelerate stump decomposition can be applied. This is a slow process, often taking months or even years.
  • Manual Removal: For smaller stumps, you might be able to dig it out, but this is extremely labour-intensive and can leave a large hole.

 

5. Final Site Cleanup

Once the tree is processed and the stump addressed, it's time for the final cleanup:

  • Rake and Clear: Remove all remaining sawdust, small chips, and debris from the area.
  • Repair Damage: Fill in any divots or ruts caused by the tree falling or equipment. Reseed grass if necessary.
  • Tool Maintenance: Clean and sharpen your chainsaw and other tools. Proper maintenance ensures they're ready for the next job.

 

Cutting down a tree is a significant undertaking, but by utilizing efficient tools like a Wallenstein wood chipper for brush and a Wallenstein log splitter for firewood, you can ensure the entire process is completed safely, efficiently, and with a clear plan for all the resulting material. Enjoy your newly opened backyard space!