What You Need To Know About Tree Climbing Services

Not all tree trimming tasks can be completed from the top of a ladder or the safety of a bucket truck. Sometimes tree climbers are needed to complete the job.

Benefits

Most tree services try to use equipment to reach after part of a tree. Bucket trucks and similar lifts are frequently employed, but these require sufficient room around the tree to move them into place. In tight spots, climbing the tree to the area that needs to be trimmed or cut back is a better and more effective option. It's also necessary for trees that are too tall for the equipment to reach.

An added benefit to using a climber instead of equipment is that there is less damage caused to the lawn and surrounding landscaping. The rigging and safety harnesses used for climbers don't cause any damage to anything below.

Safety

Safety is the main concern — for both the climber and the tree. The climbers will be wearing personal protective equipment for their own protection, along with climbing harnesses that will arrest their fall if they were to slip. Further, all climbers are highly trained and skilled, so they know how to maneuver and work safely from high up in the tree.

As for the tree itself, steps are taken to prevent damage. Climbers always check each branch before stepping out on it to make sure it is sturdy enough to support the added weight. To further ensure against damage, ask if the service uses spur-free climbing techniques. This technique means the climbers do not embed spurred footwear into the trunk to assist in climbing, a process that can damage trees and leave behind open wounds. 

Risks

There are risks with any type of tree removal, and climbing is no exception. The main risk is to the climber themselves, particularly if a branch breaks beneath them or they lose footing. This is why using a safety harness is so important, as it arrests the fall and prevents injury.

Risks to the tree from using a climber to prune is minimal, particularly when the aforementioned spur-free methods are used. There is a risk that a large branch, high up in the tree, can fall or break in an unexpected way. This can cause damage to the tree or damage to items below if it comes crashing down. Often, climbers will anchor branches to a cable and pulley system before cutting so that the branch can be lowered down safely instead of simply falling.

Contact a residential tree climbing service if you need to prune a large or awkwardly placed tree.

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