10 Different Types of Tree Removal

Trees are vital to our neighborhoods, offering shade, beauty, and cleaner air. However, removal often becomes necessary when a tree becomes a hazard—whether due to disease, storm damage, or overgrowth. Safely removing a tree requires skill, experience, and the right equipment. It’s not a job for just anyone, especially in urban areas like the Bronx, where space is limited and property safety is paramount.

At Owens Brothers Tree Service, we’ve spent over 60 years mastering the art of tree care and removal. Whether you’re dealing with a dangerous tree near your home or need to clear space for a new project, our team is here to help.

Below, we outline 10 tree removal techniques we use to ensure your property remains safe and well-maintained:

Owens Brothers’ Tree Removal Techniques

Felling

Tree felling is one of the most straightforward and traditional methods of removal. This approach involves cutting the tree at its base to make it fall in a specific direction. Using a chainsaw or an ax, our team calculates and executes precise cuts to control the tree’s drop.

While effective, felling requires careful planning. Misjudging the tree’s height, weight, or fall direction could damage nearby structures or cause injury. This method is reserved for open areas with enough space to accommodate a falling tree.

Climbing

When space is tight, or structures are nearby, climbing offers a safer alternative. Our expert tree climbers scale the tree with ropes and harnesses to remove branches and sections from the top down. Rigging cables are used to safely lower each piece to the ground.

Climbing may take longer than felling but allows for more control, making it ideal for trees in dense urban environments like the Bronx.

Bucket Removal

For trees that are unsafe to climb, such as those with rotting trunks or weak branches, bucket trucks (also known as cherry pickers) come into play. These trucks lift our crew to the necessary height, enabling them to saw off sections of the tree safely.

Although bucket removal requires special equipment, it’s an efficient and safe method for dealing with hazardous trees.

Crane-Assisted Removal

In situations where traditional methods are too risky—such as for extremely large trees or those close to buildings—we turn to crane-assisted removal. This technique involves using a crane to lift tree sections, eliminating the need for workers to be in direct contact with the tree.

While crane removal requires advanced planning and equipment, it’s the safest option for challenging removals in urban areas.

Rigging and Roping

We use rigging systems with ropes and pulleys to carefully lower each piece when removing heavy branches or sections. This method prevents sudden drops that could damage property or harm our crew.

Rigging is particularly valuable for urban tree removal, where precision is key to protecting the surrounding environment.

Directional Pruning

Before a tree is removed, we often prune certain branches to control the fall or make the removal process safer. This technique ensures that the tree’s structure is more manageable during dismantling.

Directional pruning is a preparatory step that adds an extra layer of safety to the removal process.

Stump Grinding

Once removed, the stump can pose a tripping hazard or become a home for pests. Our team uses a stump grinder to eliminate the stump, leaving your space clean and ready for future landscaping.

Controlled Limb Removal

We remove each limb individually in a controlled manner for trees with large, dangerous limbs. This method minimizes the risk of property damage and ensures the safety of everyone involved.

Manual Removal

We carefully remove smaller trees and shrubs using hand tools like saws and axes. This low-tech but effective method is perfect for smaller-scale residential projects.

Emergency Tree Removal

Storm-damaged or fallen trees often require immediate attention. Our emergency tree removal service is available to quickly address hazardous situations, and we can often be on site either same-day or within 24 hours.

Our Approach to Tree Removal

At Owens Brothers Tree Service, we take a personalized approach to every project. Our process begins with a thorough inspection of the tree and surrounding area. Depending on the tree’s condition and location, we recommend the best removal method for your property.

Once a plan is in place, our skilled crew—led by an expert foreman—safely and efficiently removes the tree. Whether you’re dealing with a dying tree, storm damage, or just making room for a new project, we’re here to help.

Free Estimate (718) 885-0914