Why Using A Crane For Tree Removal Is Safer
Updated: Jan 10

An increasing number of tree care companies are turning to cranes to assist with tree care and removal, as they allow for faster, easier and safer work, while minimizing the damage done to the surrounding landscape.
While some companies still rely solely on chainsaws and ladders, the use of cranes has become a popular method in the industry.
Trees in tight or hard-to-reach places can be removed by cranes
The traditional image of tree removal typically involves a person cutting through the trunk of a tree until it eventually falls. However, in certain situations, such as with limited space or specific types of trees, using felling techniques may still be possible.
In many cases, the traditional method of felling a tree may not be feasible, due to its proximity to structures, roads, or people. Instead, the tree is removed piece by piece using a crane and lifted vertically out of the area. The removed pieces are then transported to a designated area where they are cut down to smaller sizes for transport and the branches are shredded for use as mulch by ground crew.
Using a crane to remove a tree from the area greatly reduces the risk of the tree falling on buildings, structures, or other trees in the vicinity.
A crane can also be used to lift the tree over obstacles and buildings, enabling the tree removal company to remove trees that would otherwise be inaccessible.
Cranes are useful in dangerous circumstances
A crane can greatly reduce the risk when a tree is unstable, due to factors such as storm damage, insect infestations, or disease. These trees can be dangerous to climb, as they may fail unexpectedly, putting the climber in danger. Additionally, unstable trees are more likely to break apart during removal, which can cause damage to the surrounding area.
The removal of unstable trees can be a difficult task and it is commonly done by tree care companies with the aid of a crane. Using a crane not only ensures the safety of the workers but also increases the efficiency of the job and reduces the chances of any damage to the surrounding area.
Operating a crane requires specialized training and expertise
When a tree is removed using a crane, you may have observed that the setup of the crane takes longer than the actual tree removal. This is because factors like the angle of the ground, ground conditions and tree size all impact how the crane must be anchored securely.
The crane is equipped with stabilizers for support, and additional leveling may be done using wood blocks. Ensuring that the crane is perfectly level is vital for tree removal, as the weight of the tree must be evenly distributed.
It's important to note that while the use of a crane does make tree removal safer than other methods, there are still some inherent risks. This process involves a worker ascending the tree and attaching themselves to it, then cutting it down in sections using a chainsaw. The sections or branches that are cut off will be lifted away by the crane using a steel cable or nylon strap.
The tree-climbing worker and the crane operator communicate regularly using hand signals or radio headsets. The worker needs to calculate the weight of the wood to be lifted, while the crane operator needs to be aware of the crane's maximum lifting capacity. It's crucial to remember that the wood sections of a tree can be extremely heavy, weighing hundreds or even thousands of pounds.
With extensive expertise and dedicated investment in licensing and ongoing education, Life's Tree Doctor has honed its crane-assisted tree removal techniques in Atlanta and the surrounding region. We are fully equipped to handle any situation, whether it be an urgent tree removal or a routine operation, as we own our own crane and don't have to spend extra time renting or subcontracting equipment. We take pride in providing direct service to our clients in order to guarantee the highest level of quality, attention, safety, and precision.