Fallen Tree Cleanup Tips For Dead Wood Removal (Chainsaw Expert Guide)

If you have a fallen tree loaded with dead wood, the quickest fix is usually to start by carefully bucking the branches into manageable sections with a chainsaw, focusing on removing the smaller, dead limbs first to improve access and visibility.

Assessing the Situation: A Crucial First Step

Before you even think about firing up your chainsaw, take a moment to thoroughly assess the fallen tree and its surroundings. This is where safety begins.

Evaluating the Tree

Species: Knowing the tree species is crucial. Some woods, like oak and maple, are dense and heavy, while others, such as pine and poplar, are lighter and easier to handle. This knowledge informs your cutting strategy and equipment choices.
Size and Weight: Estimate the tree’s diameter and length. A large, heavy tree requires more powerful equipment and a more cautious approach. I once underestimated the weight of a waterlogged oak, and it nearly pinched my saw!
Extent of Decay: Dead wood is often brittle and unpredictable. Probe the wood with a sharp tool, like a sturdy screwdriver, to assess the degree of decay. Severely decayed wood can crumble unexpectedly, posing a significant risk.
Branch Structure: Examine the branch structure carefully. Look for branches that are under tension or compression, as these can spring back violently when cut.
Presence of Hazards: Be aware of any potential hazards, such as power lines, fences, or structures that could be damaged by falling limbs.

Evaluating the Surroundings

Clearance: Ensure you have ample clearance around the tree to work safely. Remove any obstacles, such as rocks, branches, or debris.
Escape Routes: Identify at least two clear escape routes in case of an emergency. You should be able to quickly move away from the tree if something goes wrong.
Ground Conditions: Check the ground conditions for stability. Slippery or uneven terrain can increase the risk of slips and falls.
Weather Conditions: Avoid working in windy or wet conditions. Wind can cause unpredictable tree movement, and rain can make surfaces slippery.

Safety Gear is Non-Negotiable

Never, ever start working on a fallen tree without the proper safety gear. I’ve seen too many accidents that could have been prevented with the right protection.

Chainsaw Chaps: These are essential for protecting your legs from chainsaw cuts.
Steel-Toed Boots: Protect your feet from falling objects and chainsaw mishaps.
Eye Protection: Wear safety glasses or a face shield to protect your eyes from flying debris.
Hearing Protection: Chainsaws are loud. Use earplugs or earmuffs to prevent hearing damage.
Gloves: Provide a better grip and protect your hands from cuts and splinters.
Helmet: A hard hat is crucial for protecting your head from falling branches.

Takeaway: A thorough assessment of the tree, surroundings, and proper safety gear are the non-negotiable first steps.

Essential Tools for the Job

Having the right tools makes the job safer, easier, and more efficient. Here’s a list of the essential tools I recommend:

Chainsaw: The Heart of the Operation

Size and Power: Choose a chainsaw that is appropriate for the size of the tree and the type of wood you’ll be cutting. For smaller trees and dead wood, a 16-18 inch bar with a 40-50cc engine is usually sufficient. For larger trees, you’ll need a more powerful saw with a longer bar.
Maintenance: A well-maintained chainsaw is a safe chainsaw. Keep the chain sharp, the air filter clean, and the bar properly lubricated. I sharpen my chain after every few tanks of gas, or more often if I’m cutting dirty or abrasive wood.
Spare Chain: Always have a spare chain on hand. Hitting a rock or nail can quickly dull or damage your chain.

Wedges and Felling Lever: Preventing Pinching

Wedges: Plastic or aluminum wedges are used to prevent the saw from getting pinched in the cut. They are especially useful when cutting larger logs or when the tree is leaning in a particular direction.
Felling Lever: A felling lever is used to help push the tree over in the desired direction. It’s a valuable tool for controlling the fall of the tree.

Axes and Splitting Mauls: For Processing Firewood

Axes: A good axe is essential for splitting smaller pieces of wood and for limbing trees.
Splitting Mauls: For splitting larger rounds of wood, a splitting maul is the tool of choice. Its heavy head and wedge-shaped design make short work of even the toughest logs.

Measuring Tools: Ensuring Consistency

Measuring Tape: A measuring tape is essential for cutting firewood to the desired length. Most wood stoves and fireplaces require firewood to be 16-18 inches long.
Marking Crayon or Paint: Use a crayon or paint to mark the wood at the desired length before cutting.

Other Essential Tools

First Aid Kit: Keep a well-stocked first aid kit readily available in case of injuries.
Fire Extinguisher: A fire extinguisher is a must-have, especially when working with dry, dead wood.
Chainsaw Fuel and Oil: Always have plenty of fuel and bar oil on hand.
Wrench and Screwdriver: For chainsaw maintenance and repairs.
Gloves: Provide a better grip and protect your hands from cuts and splinters.

Takeaway: Having the right tools, properly maintained, is critical for safety and efficiency. Don’t skimp on quality or maintenance.

The Art of Bucking: Cutting the Tree into Manageable Sections

Bucking is the process of cutting a fallen tree into shorter, more manageable sections. This is where you’ll spend most of your time, so it’s important to do it safely and efficiently.

Planning Your Cuts

Consider the Wood’s End Use: Before you start cutting, think about what you’ll be using the wood for. If you’re planning to use it for firewood, cut it into lengths that are appropriate for your stove or fireplace (typically 16-18 inches). If you’re planning to use it for lumber, cut it into lengths that are suitable for your project.
Prioritize Stability: Always cut from the top down, starting with the smaller branches and working your way to the trunk. This helps to stabilize the tree and prevent it from rolling or shifting unexpectedly.
Look for Tension and Compression: Be aware of any tension or compression in the wood. Wood under tension will tend to spring back when cut, while wood under compression will tend to pinch the saw.

Safe Bucking Techniques

The “Boring” Cut: This technique is used to relieve tension in the wood before making the final cut. It involves using the tip of the chainsaw to bore a hole into the wood, relieving the tension and preventing the wood from splitting or pinching the saw.
The “Hinge” Cut: This technique is used to control the direction of the fall of a log. It involves cutting a notch in the log on the side you want it to fall, leaving a hinge of uncut wood on the opposite side. As you continue cutting, the log will pivot on the hinge and fall in the desired direction.
Using Wedges: Wedges are used to prevent the saw from getting pinched in the cut. Drive a wedge into the cut behind the saw to keep the kerf open.

Dealing with Dead Wood

Expect the Unexpected: Dead wood can be brittle and unpredictable. Be prepared for it to crumble or break unexpectedly.
Use a Sharp Chain: A sharp chain is essential for cutting dead wood. A dull chain will tend to bind and kick back.
Take Your Time: Don’t rush. Cut slowly and carefully, paying attention to the wood’s reaction.

Takeaway: Bucking requires careful planning, the right techniques, and extra caution when dealing with dead wood.

Limbing: Removing the Branches

Limbing is the process of removing the branches from the fallen tree. This can be a tedious task, but it’s important to do it safely and efficiently.

Limbing Techniques

Cut from the Base to the Tip: Start by cutting the branches closest to the base of the tree and work your way towards the tip. This helps to prevent the tree from rolling or shifting unexpectedly.
Cut on the Opposite Side: When cutting a branch, stand on the opposite side of the tree from the branch you’re cutting. This will protect you from being hit by the falling branch.
Use a Limbing Axe: A limbing axe is a lightweight axe with a long handle that is designed for removing branches. It’s a faster and more efficient tool than a chainsaw for smaller branches.

Dealing with Spring Poles

Identify Spring Poles: Spring poles are branches that are bent under tension. They can be extremely dangerous, as they can spring back violently when cut.
Relieve the Tension: Before cutting a spring pole, relieve the tension by making a series of small cuts on the underside of the branch. This will allow the branch to slowly release its energy, preventing it from snapping back.
Cut from a Safe Distance: When cutting a spring pole, stand as far away from the branch as possible. This will minimize your risk of being hit by the branch if it snaps back.

Takeaway: Limbing requires careful technique, awareness of spring poles, and a commitment to staying safe.

Splitting Firewood: From Log to Usable Fuel

Splitting firewood is a physically demanding task, but it’s also a rewarding one. There’s nothing quite like the feeling of warmth and satisfaction that comes from burning wood that you’ve split yourself.

Choosing the Right Splitting Method

Manual Splitting: This involves using an axe or splitting maul to split the wood by hand. It’s a good option for smaller quantities of wood or for those who enjoy the physical challenge.
Hydraulic Log Splitter: This involves using a hydraulic machine to split the wood. It’s a faster and easier option for larger quantities of wood or for those who have physical limitations.

Manual Splitting Techniques

Choose the Right Tool: For smaller pieces of wood, an axe is usually sufficient. For larger, tougher pieces of wood, a splitting maul is the tool of choice.
Find a Stable Base: Place the log on a stable base, such as a chopping block or a large stump.
Aim for the Center: Aim for the center of the log and swing with a smooth, controlled motion.
Use Wedges: If the log is particularly tough, use wedges to help split it. Drive the wedges into the cracks in the wood to widen them and make splitting easier.

Hydraulic Log Splitter Techniques

Follow the Manufacturer’s Instructions: Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions when operating a hydraulic log splitter.
Wear Safety Glasses: Wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from flying debris.
Keep Your Hands Clear: Keep your hands clear of the splitting area.
Split Along the Grain: Split the wood along the grain for best results.

Takeaway: Splitting firewood can be done manually or with a hydraulic splitter. Choose the method that best suits your needs and abilities, and always prioritize safety.

Stacking and Drying Firewood: Preparing for Winter

Once you’ve split the firewood, it’s important to stack it properly and allow it to dry before burning it. Properly dried firewood burns hotter, cleaner, and more efficiently.

Stacking Techniques

Choose a Sunny Location: Stack the firewood in a sunny location with good air circulation. This will help it to dry more quickly.
Elevate the Wood: Elevate the wood off the ground using pallets or cinder blocks. This will prevent it from absorbing moisture from the ground.
Stack Loosely: Stack the wood loosely to allow for good air circulation.
Cover the Top: Cover the top of the stack with a tarp to protect it from rain and snow.

Drying Time

Seasoning: The process of drying firewood is called seasoning. It typically takes 6-12 months for firewood to season properly.
Moisture Content: The ideal moisture content for firewood is below 20%. You can use a moisture meter to check the moisture content of your firewood.
Signs of Seasoning: Properly seasoned firewood will be lighter in weight, have cracks in the ends, and make a hollow sound when struck together.

Takeaway: Proper stacking and drying are essential for producing high-quality firewood. Allow your wood to season for at least 6-12 months before burning it.

Disposal of Dead Wood: Environmentally Responsible Options

Not all of the fallen tree will be suitable for firewood. Dead, rotten wood can be a breeding ground for insects and disease, so it’s important to dispose of it properly.

Composting

Chipping: Chip the dead wood using a wood chipper.
Composting: Add the wood chips to your compost pile. The wood chips will break down over time, adding valuable nutrients to your soil.

Wildlife Habitat

Creating Brush Piles: Create brush piles in a secluded area of your property. Brush piles provide shelter and nesting sites for wildlife.
Leaving Standing Dead Trees: If it’s safe to do so, leave standing dead trees (snags) on your property. Snags provide valuable habitat for birds, mammals, and insects.

Landfill Disposal

Check Local Regulations: Check with your local municipality for regulations regarding the disposal of dead wood.
Landfill Disposal: If composting or creating wildlife habitat is not an option, you can dispose of the dead wood at a landfill.

Takeaway: Dispose of dead wood responsibly, considering composting, wildlife habitat, or landfill disposal options.

Chainsaw Maintenance: Keeping Your Saw in Top Condition

A well-maintained chainsaw is a safe and efficient chainsaw. Regular maintenance will extend the life of your saw and prevent costly repairs.

Daily Maintenance

Check the Chain: Check the chain for sharpness and damage. Sharpen or replace the chain as needed.
Check the Bar: Check the bar for wear and damage. Clean the bar groove and oil holes.
Check the Air Filter: Clean the air filter. A dirty air filter can reduce the saw’s power and cause it to overheat.
Check the Fuel and Oil Levels: Fill the fuel and oil tanks.
Inspect the Saw: Inspect the saw for any loose or damaged parts.

Weekly Maintenance

Clean the Saw: Clean the entire saw with a brush and a mild detergent.
Grease the Bar Sprocket: Grease the bar sprocket to keep it lubricated.
Check the Spark Plug: Check the spark plug for wear and damage. Replace the spark plug as needed.

Monthly Maintenance

Sharpen the Chain: Sharpen the chain using a file or a chain grinder.
Check the Chain Tension: Adjust the chain tension as needed.
Inspect the Anti-Vibration System: Inspect the anti-vibration system for wear and damage.

Annual Maintenance

Tune Up the Engine: Have a qualified mechanic tune up the engine.
Replace the Fuel Filter: Replace the fuel filter.
Replace the Air Filter: Replace the air filter.
Inspect the Fuel Lines: Inspect the fuel lines for cracks and leaks.

Takeaway: Regular chainsaw maintenance is essential for safety and performance. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for maintenance intervals.

Safety First: Preventing Accidents

Working with chainsaws and heavy wood is inherently dangerous. Always prioritize safety to prevent accidents.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Wear Appropriate PPE: Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment, including chainsaw chaps, steel-toed boots, eye protection, hearing protection, gloves, and a helmet.

Safe Operating Practices

Read the Manual: Read and understand the chainsaw’s owner’s manual.
Start the Saw on the Ground: Start the saw on the ground, with the chain brake engaged.
Maintain a Firm Grip: Maintain a firm grip on the saw with both hands.
Keep Your Feet Planted: Keep your feet planted firmly on the ground.
Avoid Cutting Above Your Head: Avoid cutting above your head.
Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Be aware of your surroundings and watch out for hazards.
Take Breaks: Take frequent breaks to avoid fatigue.
Never Work Alone: Never work alone. Have someone nearby in case of an emergency.

Emergency Procedures

Know First Aid: Know basic first aid procedures.
Have a Communication Plan: Have a communication plan in place in case of an emergency.
Know Your Location: Know your location so you can provide it to emergency responders.

Takeaway: Safety should always be your top priority when working with chainsaws and heavy wood. Wear appropriate PPE, follow safe operating practices, and be prepared for emergencies.