At Tree Surgeon Pro, our main aim is to promote the health and longevity of trees in Sedgefield. As trained and qualified tree surgeons and arborists, we devote our efforts to providing tree care services that manage trees rather than destroy them.
However, there are cases where tree felling is required, and when this takes place it's imperative that it is handled safely and correctly to avoid damage and/or injury.
Felling trees is often depicted as a simple process - simply chop the tree at the base with a chainsaw (or axe) and the job's done! In reality, it's a complex procedure requiring skill, precision and a deep understanding of the tree within its environment. Above all, it must be done safely.
The following guide illustrates how the Tree Surgeon Pro Sedgefield team handles a typical tree-felling operation.
The first step is to assess the condition of the tree and its surroundings. Our experts will be looking at aspects such as:
This assessment helps us to create a coherent plan of action that offers the safest and most appropriate method of tree removal.
*See below for more details on TPOs
Health and safety are paramount for any tree surgery procedure, but felling trees is particularly hazardous so we'll take extra precautions here.
The area will be cordoned off to protect people and property, and the team will be equipped with appropriate PPE. All machinery will be double-checked before work begins to ensure that it is safe and in good working order.
There are several techniques used to fell trees, and this is typically determined by the size and location of the tree.
The most common felling methods are as follows:
Probably the most 'traditional' method, this is when a simple notch is cut into the trunk on the side facing the intended direction of the fall. A 'back-cut' is then made on the opposite side which releases the tree and allows it to fall safely. This technique requires adequate room for the tree to fall without any obstructions.
With sectional felling, the branches are removed systematically starting from the crown and working downwards. The trunk is then removed in large sections, allowing controlled and stable removal.
This is a variation of straight felling but involves precise cuts and potentially mechanical aids (like wedges, ropes, or winches) to guide the tree’s fall into a specific direction. It’s particularly useful when obstacles like buildings, fences, or power lines are nearby, and a more controlled approach is needed.
In some cases, a tree is pulled down in a specific direction using winches, cables, or other mechanical equipment. This technique is often combined with directional felling and is ideal for:
This is used for trees located in open areas with no significant hazards. The tree is allowed to fall naturally after strategic cuts are made, relying on gravity alone. It’s simpler but only suitable when there’s ample space and no risk of damage.
This is a gradual felling method often used for larger trees. Multiple horizontal cuts are made into the trunk, section by section, starting from the top. This technique is like sectional dismantling but focuses on the trunk rather than removing branches first.
The stump can be left in place if you prefer, or our team can destroy this using a stump grinder. This powerful machine reduces the entire stump to wood chips and sawdust at ground level, preventing the decaying stump from attracting pests. We'll also cut and dig out the roots (as far as is necessary or practical) to prevent regrowth. Keep in mind that the tree stump removal cost in Sedgefield will depend on factors like stump size, location, and the complexity of the removal process.
The Tree Surgeon Pro team aims to cause minimal disruption, leaving the site as tidy as possible. Once the tree has been felled, we will remove all debris* and settle the area to make it look as tidy as possible. If preferred, we can set plants, shrubs or trees in the vacant space.
*The trunk and branches are usually removed for processing or recycling, but we are willing to cut it up and leave it with you if you wish.
At Tree Surgeon Pro, we’re passionate about delivering exceptional tree care services tailored to your needs. With years of experience, certified expertise, and a commitment to customer satisfaction, we’re your trusted partner for all things tree surgery.
On average, small trees (25ft or less) take approximately four hours in total, not including any aftercare work (such as replanting).
Medium-sized trees will require between one and three days, while large trees could take as much as five days, depending on the complexity of the project.
A lot will depend on how easy it is to access the site and whether there are any obstacles or complications. The weather may also play a part, as we cannot risk working in high winds or unfavourable conditions.
We can offer a better idea of the time required once we have had time to assess the size and condition of the tree in question.
We can only provide approximate prices without knowing the details, but here's a quick guide:
Contact our Sedgefield team for more details and a competitive price for your tree-felling project!
A TPO is a legal order issued by the local planning authority that can apply to individual trees or an entire outdoor space containing trees, especially in conservation areas. These orders are usually issued to provide legal protection for specific species or in cases where trees are regarded as important to the local area.
Deliberate damage or destruction to protected trees - including pruning, lopping or felling - can result in a hefty fine of up to £20,000 (and, in some cases, an unlimited fine can be imposed). You'll also have a criminal record to contend with.
On the subject of law, there are certain situations where you'll need to obtain a felling licence from the Forestry Commission. In most cases - as in the situations mentioned above - they won't be necessary, but Tree Surgeon Pro will handle this if and when required (typically if the amount of timber to be felled exceeds five cubic metres).
For the most part, a felling licence will relate to larger areas of forestry that should have a sustainable woodland management plan in place.
If your tree is in or near a Site of Specialist Scientific Interest you will need permission from Natural England and the Forestry Commission. For those situated in areas designated as a Scheduled Monument, you will need to apply to Historic England for consent.
Again, Tree Surgeon Pro can liaise with these organisations in Sedgefield, as we are familiar with the procedures involved.
If your tree is healthy, you might want to reconsider having it cut down and opt for another one of our services.
If you want to keep a tree in check, make it safer and improve your property's appearance, here are some ideas that could help:
If the branches are encroaching on your property or threatening to cause damage, some of these services could be useful, rather than the complete removal of the tree.
We can also help with overgrown hedges and shrubs, as well as general tree care and woodland management.
With Tree Surgeon Pro tree services, you are guaranteed an efficient and excellent service, no matter how big or complex the project.
Our qualified tree surgeons are fully insured and trained to carry out all work according to the UK forestry standard.
In addition, you have access to qualified arborists who can use their expertise to provide guidance on a wide range of subjects relating to plant life, soil, and landscape or woodland management in general.
In essence, Tree Surgeon Pro offers the full package: expert tree care backed up by scientific knowledge.
Whatever your tree or garden-related issue, Tree Surgeon Pro has a comprehensive range of services that have you covered.
Why not get in touch today to discuss your project? Whether it's our tree felling service you need or you need assistance and advice on tree management, we're more than happy to share our knowledge and experience.
If a tree is causing damage to your property or has become unstable, you may need a tree felling service. Signs include leaning, root decay, or branches that threaten nearby structures.
Tree felling involves completely removing a tree, while tree trimming refers to cutting back branches for maintenance. Felling is typically done when a tree poses a risk or has outgrown its space.
The cost of tree felling varies based on tree size, location, and complexity of the job. On average, you can expect to pay between £150 and £2,000 for tree felling services in the UK.
Yes, tree felling can be dangerous due to the height and weight of trees. Professional tree surgeons use specialised equipment and techniques to ensure safety during the process.
Yes, skilled tree felling experts can carefully remove trees near buildings. They use precision techniques to avoid damage and ensure safety for surrounding structures.
In many cases, you do need permission to fell a tree in the UK, especially if it’s in a conservation area or protected by a Tree Preservation Order (TPO). Always check with your local council before proceeding.
