Westham Tree Surgeons (BN24): Trees are amazing things to have and enjoy in our gardens - they provide a much needed home for birds and wildlife, they produce vital oxygen for our environment and they offer pleasant shade on hot, sunny days. But there are some downsides; trees can become far too big for our gardens in Westham, trees can become diseased and unstable or trees can easily get damaged by storms and wind. The best person to call when you've got concerns about your trees in Westham, is a tree surgeon.
Playing a vital role in the general care and maintenance of trees, tree surgeons provide services for both domestic and commercial clients in Westham. There are countless examples of services that an expert tree surgeon in Westham will be able to provide: the pruning of intruding, dead or weakened branches, inspections and hazard assessments, the safe planting of trees, tree felling and removal, and general tree maintenance.
However, a tree surgeon's work certainly doesn't stop with trees alone. A tree surgeon in Westham will carry out additional responsibilities, such as hedge maintenance, care and pruning and stump removal. If you have any worries about the structural integrity of a tree, the best tradesperson to contact is a tree surgeon, as they can effectively appraise and give a full report on possible threats, and offer advice on what should be done next.
Tree surgery is a very risky undertaking and most certainly something that must only be attempted by a professional. It wouldn't be a wise decision to bypass and take a DIY approach, although this might at first seem to be an attractive solution. Tree surgeons must be qualified, experienced and physically fit to carry out the work they are required to do.
Tree surgery often involves the use of dangerous power tools whilst high up in the air and swinging from a harness in a tree. So, you can see why this isn't a task for amateurs! Tree surgery work is also commonly performed by a gang of experienced tree surgeons, including a ground team and climbers, who are all specialists in their field. Rivalling this level of risk assessment, competence and experience to undertake the work, would be nigh on impossible for any untrained individual.
On deciding that that you need the expert help of a tree surgeon in Westham, the initial step is to identify a decent one that can be trusted. But, how should you do this? Well, a couple of things will need to be checked, such as what qualifications they have and how much it will cost. Below, we'll be looking at just some of the things that you should look for when picking a tree surgeon in Westham.
Making certain that they have the right qualifications is the first step in assuring you that they're properly accredited and competent. The National Proficiency Tests Council (NPTC) is the main governing body issuing certifications to tree surgeons. The following accreditations should be the bare minimum held by any tree surgeon in Westham:
- NPTC 308 (CS39) - Aerial cutting of trees using free-fall techniques.
- NPTC 201/202 (CS30) - Basic crosscutting and chainsaw maintenance.
- NPTC 206/306 (CS38) - Tree climbing and aerial rescue.
- NPTC 203 (CS31) - Fell and process small trees.
Although there isn't any legal requirement for a tree surgeon to gain such certifications, if you can hire one that does, it shows that they have a good level of training to successfully and safely complete the work. Because there's always a risk of falling from considerable height, and the possibility of life threatening injuries, it is vital that tree surgeons, forestry workers and arborists carry a comprehensive First Aid kit, and go through some training in First Aid techniques.
The next step will be to get two or three quotes from different Westham tree surgeons, and meticulously examine their cost breakdown, and the work that is included in the price. Quite often, the estimated cost won't include the removal of the large amount of waste typically created by tree maintenance and surgery. The process of removing this waste can involve huge cost and inconvenience to the client, consequently if it's possible to have the tree surgeons remove this themselves, it would certainly be the best solution.
Also, when meeting up with prospective tree surgeons in Westham, make sure that you're ready to ask plenty of important questions regarding your project. For instance, you need to establish who is going to be accessing your property and who is going to be doing the actual work. Is it going to involve an individual or a crew? Is there any possibility of you meeting with them before work begins? What will be the method for removing the tree? Is there going to be any impact of my home or my next door neighbours? Precisely how long will the job take?
Do not be frightened to ask all these questions, as the more you ask, the less likely it is that there'll be any nasty surprises as work progresses.
Also, listen closely to what your tree surgeon says and how they speak. This can be an extremely useful tool for determining their levels of professionalism and expertise before any actual work begins. If the phrase 'topping and lopping' is mentioned, you may be better off looking for a different tree surgeon, since this is a rather outdated phrase, which displays a lack of knowledge in modern tree surgery. A professional, skilled and experienced tree surgeon in Westham should be using the appropriate terminology such as 'crown lifting', 'crown reduction', 'pruning', 'pollarding' and 'crown thinning'. Although this can be a valuable clue regarding the level of experience held by your tree surgeon, it is not automatically an indicator of ability.
In the final analysis, when it comes to tree maintenance or tree surgery, it is always worth consulting a variety of different tree surgeons in Westham. This should help you in finding the right tradesperson for the job, and one who'll ensure all your needs are fully met in a timely manner, with safe practices at the forefront of their mind.
The Use of Chainsaws
The most commonplace piece of equipment that tree surgeons in Westham use is the chainsaw. It's a versatile and effective tool, but in the wrong hands, a very dangerous one. Petrol powered chainsaws are the most popular with professionals, because of their ease of use and portability, although mains electric versions are available, and battery operated chainsaws are growing more popular for some processes. For substantial tree work, the only real option is to use petrol driven chainsaws, as they're able to effortlessly slice through trunks and branches of any size, and are exceptionally powerful and robust.
Comprising a revolving chain containing a row of sharp teeth that cut through the branches and wood, a chainsaw is in fact a fairly simple tool. For the varied operations that are required, there are different types of chainsaw, pole saws for hard to reach branches and long distance pruning, top-handled for working at height (and which can be operated with one hand) and rear-handled for work at ground level (must always be used with two hands).
You'll almost never find an experienced Westham tree surgeon who does not use a chainsaw, although being high up in a tree with a spinning blade in your hand is not is not the safest way to spend your day. One of the main conditions for gaining membership of the Arboricultural Association (AA), is that tree surgeons have to be trained in the maintenance and safe use of chainsaws.
The most popular brands of chainsaw used in the United Kingdom by tree care professionals are Stihl, Hyundai, Husqvarna and Makita, although there are countless different makes and models.
Cable Bracing Westham
Tree cable bracing is a technique that is used to provide support for a tree when it shows signs of damage, decay, or presents a risk to nearby property (or persons). Where older or valued trees in Westham are concerned, cable bracing is generally used where it's undesirable to fell a tree or cut out large portions that are unsafe or unstable.
The installation of a cable bracing setup may sometimes be possible in order to support the V-shaped forks, weak limbs and defective joints of a tree. To help redistribute structural tension and extend the life of old and specimen trees most tree surgeons in Westham should be able to carry out various types of bracing work through the fitting of rods and cables.
A non-invasive strategy, that will not damage the tree by drilling and bolting the problematic branches, cable bracing provides shock-absorbing and flexible support. A risk assessment must be carried out by an arborist of tree surgeon before any cable bracing work can commence. This is important to guarantee the safety of the tree and surrounding areas as the project proceeds.
Crown Thinning Westham
The elimination of a lot of the smallest branches towards the outer crown of a tree to develop a leaf density which is uniform all the way through and does not transform the size or shape of the tree, is termed crown thinning. This specific technique is typically only performed on trees with broad leaves and is done to decrease the wind resistance of the tree, to lower the total weight of the crown, to cut down the stress on larger limbs caused by gravity, ice, snow, or wind, to stop the tree being uprooted when it is windy or to let more sunlight throughout. A uniform foliage thickness encompassing equally spaced branches ought to be the arborist's aim when carrying out crown thinning, it should not change the general shape and size of the tree.
Dutch Elm Disease
Not quite the issue now that it was at one time, Dutch Elm Disease (Ophiostoma novo-ulmi) has killed many millions of elm trees all around the UK over the last fifty years or more. Spread by the elm bark beetle (Scolytus) and caused by the Ophiostoma novo-ulmi fungus, Dutch Elm Disease was inadvertently introduced into Great Britain from North America (Canada) in the late 1960's.
After arriving, it swiftly spread through the nationwide transportation of elm products such as mulching bark, saplings, crates, and firewood logs with the bark on. DED did not only affect the United Kingdom, but also decimated stocks of elms in continental Europe and North America, it is thought to have originated from Asia (possibly Japan).
Usually first materializing in early summer, the main symptoms of Dutch Elm Disease disease are:
- Twigs turning into a "shepherd's crook".
- Clusters of leaves that turn yellow, wilt and fall.
- Twigs with dark streaks underneath the bark.
- New shoots dying back from the tips.
The chopping down of infected, dying and dead trees, has effectively decimated the favourite habitat of the beetle, and in recent years the spread of Dutch Elm Disease has been slowed. The propagation of young trees which are resistant to Dutch Elm Disease is a continuing project.
If you are suspicious you might have infected elm trees in your garden in Westham, you can ask for a diagnosis from the THDAS (Tree Health Diagnostic & Advisory Service), or speak to your local tree surgeon for advice.
(Tags: Spotting Dutch Elm Disease, Dutch Elm Disease Westham, Symptoms of Dutch Elm Disease).Problematic Tree Roots Westham
When they're growing too near to your dwelling in Westham, some trees have exceptionally aggressive root systems, and can be troublesome. Damaged foundations, cracked patios and blocked drains, are among the most widespread issues that you may come across. Some of the tree species that have extremely aggressive roots include maples, willows, sycamores and elms.
If you happen to be planting new trees, make sure that they are placed sufficiently far from your drainage pipes, pathways, patio areas and your house, so that they won't cause serious problems down the road. If some of these issues are already being caused by established trees which are growing too close to your house, you should get hold of a tree surgeon in Westham for advice and guidance.
To avoid the chance of seriously harming your tree's health or even killing it off altogether, you shouldn't simply hack away at the invasive tree roots in an effort to deal with this yourself. To successfully survive, a tree will still need to get enough water and nutrients, and a professional tree surgeon in Westham will know which roots should be left in place, and which roots can be cut.
Since sewage pipes provide a consistent source of water and nutrients, tree and shrub roots frequently cause structural issues in underground drainage systems. Joint failure and even blockages can arise, when minute tree roots invade the joints of a drainage system, establish themselves and develop into large root balls. High quality root removal services will be offered by many Westham tree surgeons, who will use electro-mechanical equipment, high pressure water jetting or manual rod clearance to eliminate the troublesome roots. Root removal services are also available in Ninfield, Pevensey, Friday Street, Wannock, Hampden Park, Bexhill, Pevensey Bay, Hooe, Hankham, Foulride Green, Stone Cross, and in Westham, East Sussex.
Emergency Tree Services Westham
There might be situations when you have to contact a tree surgeon in an emergency, if you've got sizeable trees in your garden in Westham. When there are strong winds and storms, Westham tree surgeons notice an increase in emergency calls, and a lot of them offer a 24 hour service. In stormy weather there's more likelihood of branches snapping off and falling, and even possibly the risk of an entire tree toppling over. Avoidance is definitely preferable to having to handle the consequences, and common problems that can result from plummeting tree limbs and branches include damaged fences, broken garden furniture, smashed greenhouses and splintered sheds.
When sizeable limbs break of and drop onto public pavements, railway tracks and streets, the local authorities in the Westham area will also frequently need emergency tree surgeons.
When a tree has lost some of it's limbs it could become lopsided or uneven, with more branches and weight on one side. This can often be both hazardous and unsightly, therefore the tree might have to undergo a "re-balancing" procedure. If you're experiencing any of these tree related problems, you should not try to tackle any of them on your own, and you must immediately contact a local tree surgeon in Westham who provides emergency tree care services, so that they can suggest the most effective course of action. You can also get emergency tree services in Ninfield, Pevensey, Friday Street, Wannock, Hampden Park, Bexhill, Pevensey Bay, Hooe, Hankham, Foulride Green, Stone Cross, and Westham, East Sussex. (Tags: Emergency Tree Services Westham, Emergency Tree Work Westham, Emergency Tree Surgery Westham, Emergency Call-Outs Westham).
Necessary Skills to be Tree Surgeons in Westham
- Be capable of using, repairing and maintaining machinery and tools.
- Be aware of the dangers and complexities involved in all areas of the work.
- Good knowledge of public security and safety.
- Be able to work with your hands.
- To be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device.
- Have an organised approach to work.
- Be professional and capable of completing tasks within a given time frame.
- Being able to work well with other folks.
- Be patient and have the ability to stay calm and focused in stressful situations.
- Physical skills such as coordination and movement.
- Good customer skills.
Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs) Westham
Before carrying out any major work on your trees in Westham, you should make certain that there is not a TPO (Tree Preservation Order) on any of them. If you contact your local planning authority, they will let you know whether any of your trees are protected by a TPO. A Tree Preservation Order prohibits the wilful damage, removal, lopping, uprooting, wilful destruction, felling or topping of any tree which is covered. Any reputable tree surgeon in Westham will be glad to help you through this process.
Also, if you propose to undertake any work on a tree with a diameter of 75 millimetres or more, and you reside inside a conservation area in Westham, you need to give your local council at least 6 weeks written notice of the work.
Eco-Plugging Stumps Westham
Stump grinding is the traditional procedure employed by Westham tree surgeons for removing large stumps. However, "eco-plugging" is becoming increasingly more popular as an easier and cheaper solution to this issue. It's not merely the point that eco-plugging is cheaper that makes it an attractive alternative for stump removal, but also that it can be utilised in awkward and hard-to-reach locations which might be hard to get at with bulky stump grinders.
Eco-plugging is an effective treatment for killing off tree stumps and does not affect the surrounding vegetation and trees. Eco-plugs can be utilised in all weather and during any season of the year, and they eliminate a stump by killing off the entire root system. Eco-plugs contain a form of crystalline glyphosate herbicide which is suitable for treating a variety of trees, and is 95-100 percent effective. (Tags: Eco-Plugging Westham, Eco-Plug Stump Treatments Westham, Eco-Plugging Tree Stumps Westham, Eco-Plugs Westham).
Coming Soon:
Stump grinding machines - article 246.
Tree Surgery Tasks Westham
Westham tree surgeons can generally help with tree fertilising, hedge laying, root flare exposure in Westham, site clearance, fruit tree pruning, commercial tree care, airspading in Westham, stump removal, tree dismantling, root grinding, tree replanting in Westham, pest management, tree reduction, tree management, hazard assessment, root pruning, tree inspections, staking, tree lightening protection, tree shaping, vegetation management, felling of storm damaged trees, tree cabling in Westham, residential tree surgery, tree watering, tree felling, safety inspections Westham, root decompaction, tree cutting, tree maintenance, tree removal, tree planning, brush cutting services, woodland clearance, retrenchment pruning and other tree surgeon services in Westham, East Sussex. These are just a handful of the activities that are conducted by local tree surgeons. Westham providers will be delighted to keep you abreast of their entire range of services.
Tree Surgeons Near Westham: Also find: Wannock tree surgeons, Bexhill tree surgeons, Friday Street tree surgeons, Hampden Park tree surgeons, Pevensey Bay tree surgeons, Foulride Green tree surgeons, Stone Cross tree surgeons, Hankham tree surgeons, Pevensey tree surgeons, Hooe tree surgeons, Ninfield tree surgery and more. All these towns and villages are serviced by tree surgeons. Westham property owners and others can get tree surgery price quotes by clicking here.
(Created with tree surgeons Westham text version three.)
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