Not all tree roots are created equal! While some may be easy to cut with a chainsaw, others can be stubborn and require more finesse. A chainsaw, a handsaw, is a precision tool for cutting wood. It is a handheld device with a chain and a blade connected by a hinge. We can use it is one of the most commonly used tools in carpentry and construction in forestry.
Suppose you’re having trouble getting that pesky root out. Cut tree roots with a chainsaw? It sounds like a difficult task, doesn’t it? But the good thing is that we can do this safely and easily with a chainsaw. Read to learn the five easy and safe ways to cut tree roots with a chainsaw.
![5 Safe Ways To Cut Tree Roots With A Chainsaw [Exclusive Idea] (1)](https://i0.wp.com/woodthinker.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/How-To-Cut-Tree-Roots-With-A-Chainsaw.jpg "5 Safe Ways To Cut Tree Roots With A Chainsaw [Exclusive Idea] (1)")
Table of Contents
What Is Chainsaw?
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A chainsaw is a tool used to cut tree roots. The chain is the saw part that connects the blade to the frame. The saw chain guard is a piece of protective equipment attached to the frame designed to keep the operator from being injured by the saw chain.
The foot pedal controls the speed of the saw. The throttle regulates the power generated by the engine to run the chainsaw at a consistent speed. In addition to these features, a chainsaw also comes with a protective cover and oil for its engine. This helps in keeping it running smoothly and efficiently.
5 Easy And Safe Ways To Cut Tree Roots With A Chainsaw
![5 Safe Ways To Cut Tree Roots With A Chainsaw [Exclusive Idea] (3)](https://i0.wp.com/woodthinker.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Safe-Ways-To-Cut-Tree-Roots-With-A-Chainsaw.jpg "5 Safe Ways To Cut Tree Roots With A Chainsaw [Exclusive Idea] (3)")
Tree roots can be a major obstacle when cutting or clearing vegetation. However, tree root removal with a chainsaw can be easily and safely carried out with the help of tree-specific root cutters, saw-mounted diggers, and tree root splitters. A chainsaw-specific root cutter is the easiest and safest way to remove tree roots. This tool has sharp teeth that slice through roots easily, making it perfect for smaller trees and bushes. Here are 5 Easy and safe ways to cut tree roots with a chainsaw:
1.Wear Safety Goggles And Gloves
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Always wear safety goggles and gloves when using a chainsaw. These will protect your eyes and hands from getting hurt. It’s important to wear safety goggles and gloves when cutting trees with a chainsaw because the chainsaw can easily go into your eyes, nose, or mouth. Always use the appropriate chain length for the type of tree that you are cutting – the longer the chain, the more force it will use.
2.Use A Sharp Chainsaw Chain.
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Using a sharp chainsaw chain when cutting tree roots is important to avoid hurting yourself or the tree. Protecting the surrounding area by using a chainsaw backing plate is vital. When cutting tree roots, it is best to avoid the tree’s main trunk, as this can cause serious structural damage. Instead, focus on the root system and avoid directly targeting the tree’s core.
Instead, target the roots around the perimeter of the tree. This will allow you to safely remove all roots without damaging the tree’s health or structure. To protect your face and eyes from chainsaw debris, it is always advisable to wear safety goggles and earplugs when using a chainsaw.
3.Cut The Roots Just Below The Soil Surface.
![5 Safe Ways To Cut Tree Roots With A Chainsaw [Exclusive Idea] (6)](https://i0.wp.com/woodthinker.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Cut-The-Roots-Just-Below-The-Soil-Surface.jpg "5 Safe Ways To Cut Tree Roots With A Chainsaw [Exclusive Idea] (6)")
When cutting tree roots with a chainsaw, it is important to cut just below the soil surface to prevent damage to the root system and the tree from destabilizing. This will help keep the tree healthy and able to continue growing. It is also important to fitting and use a quality chainsaw chain that the saw. Instead of using one chain with multiple teeth, use a chain with the right teeth for the task at hand.
Always wear protective gear when cutting tree roots, such as safety goggles and boots, and ensure that your chainsaw blade is sharp and properly maintained. Stop immediately if you experience difficulty cutting tree roots, and consult a professional.
4.Make Multiple Cuts, Moving In A Circular Motion.
When cutting tree roots, it is important to make multiple cuts in a circular motion to prevent the chainsaw from becoming bogged down in the root system and causing damage. It is also vital to ensure that you are making only the necessary cuts, as over-cutting the root system may result in the tree dying. Instead, carefully consider the root system’s diameter to ensure you are not over-cutting it.
Use a chainsaw safely and sparingly for large trees and shrubs that are out of reach. Using a chainsaw safely and sparingly can be useful for removing large tree roots and stump removal. However, we must do it with caution and respect for the safety of others and the environment.
5.Keep Your Hands Well Away From The Blade While Cutting.
When cutting tree roots with a chainsaw, it’s important to keep your hands away from the blade. You can use safety gear such as a chainsaw guard or safety gloves. If you are unsure how to cut tree roots safely, ask a professional for help. They will be able to demonstrate the best way to conduct the task and may even provide a training course to help you become proficient with the tools and techniques.
It’s also a good idea to empty the chain saw’s fuel tank before beginning the job. This will reduce the risk of accidentally starting the saw while working near it. Finally, if you are unsure how to cut tree roots safely, ask a professional for help.
What If The Chainsaw Fails While You’re Cutting Down The Tree?
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When using a chainsaw, it’s important to follow the safety guidelines provided by the manufacturer. These include wearing protective gear, such as a face shield and chainsaw gloves, and using an eyewitness to remove the tree while you’re still working with the chainsaw.
Also, if the saw fails during the cut, stop immediately and remove the chain from the tree. This ensures that you don’t accidentally cause any more damage to the tree. After completing the cut, be sure to secure the tree so that it doesn’t fall and injure people or animals. Doing so will also help prevent limbs from loose and causing property damage or injury.
Conclusion
To sum it all up, if you have a tree that has been living for years and trying to stop growing through its roots, we recommend using the chainsaw. This tool is easy to use and does not cause any harm to plants. If you have doubts about the tools used, just wait until you observe what they are doing.
As a safety precaution, cutting tree roots on the opposite side of the stump is best. This way, the chainsaw would have a clear path to cut trees in front of the stump instead of cutting into it. You can also cut tree roots with a chainsaw safety guard that fits over your chainsaw’s bar or chainsaw chain. It protects you from tree saw injuries and saves you from possible accidents.
Frequently Asked Questions:
1.What Is The Easiest Way To Remove Tree Roots?
Ans: The best way to remove tree roots is with a chainsaw. Not only is this the safest way to go, but you’ll also be able to do the job quickly and easily. Wear safety gear, including a face mask, gloves, and eye protection when using a chainsaw. Choose a chainsaw with a sharp chain that has a cutting depth of at least 2 inches. To avoid injury, never use an electric chainsaw.
2.What Saw To Cut Tree Roots?
Ans: A chainsaw is the best option if you’re looking for a tool to help cut tree roots. Wear safety gear such as goggles, gloves, and a face shield when using a chainsaw to cut tree roots. Also, remember that the chainsaw will be drawn into the ground, so be very careful when operating it. You may also wish to use a chainsaw sharpener to keep the chain sharp.
3.Can You Cut Into Dirt With A Chainsaw?
Ans: It is generally not advised to cut into dirt with a chainsaw, which can damage the tree and lead to stump failure. If you must cut into the dirt, ensure the area is clear of obstructions. Cut the tree roots to a point attached to the soil surface. Use a saw chain with a large tooth count and avoid making excessive noise while cutting.
4.How Do You Cut Tree Roots?
Ans: There are a few ways to cut tree roots. The most effective way is to use a chainsaw with the appropriate chain size and blade type. Make sure to wear safety equipment, including a face mask, gloves, and eye protection. Please stay clear of the blade while it is spinning. Cut the roots at an angle so the tree cannot pull them back up. Wait for the chainsaw to cool before removing the root system.
5.What Should Do After The Chainsaw Has Finished Cutting The Tree Roots?
Ans: After cutting the tree roots, the next step is disconnecting the chainsaw by unhooking it from the tree. Then, remove the bar and chain from the saw. Finally, wipe down the saw blade with a rag or a brush and oil the chain and the bar with a lubricant. Reattach the chain and bar to the saw.
FAQs
Can I cut tree roots with a chainsaw? ›
Both manual and chain saws can cut through roots of any size. Use a shovel to dig out the area around large roots, as the soil will clog the space between the saw teeth and make it harder to cut.
How do you cut roots without killing trees? ›Generally, you can safely prune roots that are 5 times the diameter away from your tree. So, if your tree has a diameter of 3 feet, only cut tree roots 15 feet away from the tree. Mark the area you'll cut, and dig a hole all the way around the root until it is completely exposed.
What is the best tool for cutting tree roots? ›Use a sawzall or reciprocating saw same thing. You don't even have to dig, it will cut right thru the dirt and root.
What is the best saw blade for cutting tree roots? ›The best blades for cutting tree roots are made from high-speed steel, which is best for hardwood roots, or high-carbon steel, which is best for softwood roots. The length should be on the longer side, so look for ones that measure 6 to 12 inches.
Can I cut exposed tree roots without killing the tree? ›If you absolutely need to cut exposed roots, be sure only to prune roots that have a diameter of less than a few inches thick, leaving the thicker roots for stability and health. However, there is no guarantee that this precaution will prevent your tree from dying over time.
Do tree roots regrow if cut? ›Once the tree has been cut, the roots cannot grow anymore because the leaves are necessary to provide the food to fuel root growth. If the roots continue to produce sprouts with leaves, then in time there may be more root growth.
How much dirt can you put on top of tree roots? ›To protect the tree's roots, make mowing easier and reduce tripping hazards, you can apply a shallow layer of topsoil around and over the exposed roots. Apply just enough to cover the roots by about a half inch. Applying too much soil over the roots of a tree can suffocate them and cause tree damage or death.
How deep are tree roots? ›They are predominantly located in the top 6 to 24 inches of the soil and occasionally can grow deeper 3 to 7 feet if soil conditions allow. Root functions include water and mineral conduction, food and water storage, and anchorage.
What is a root AXE? ›A Vertical Axe/Root-Bar is more specialized, as it is designed to cut wood found in trees, roots, and other dense vegetation. It's not an axe that you swing, but it's an axe that you thrust, throw down, or drop vertically.
What tool is used to pull out plant roots? ›Shovels, trenching shovels, and sharpshooter shovels are some of the most commonly used hand tools for manual removal of larger plants and shrubs. They are especially useful in providing extra cutting and prying power needed to remove perennials with more developed roots under loose or moist soil conditions.
Will a trench digger cut through tree roots? ›
Severing tree roots: Tree roots can be challenging to cut. Lot clearing operations, landscapers and lawn care professionals can use trenchers to cut plant and tree roots. Some trencher models have a built-in blade designed for cutting roots.
Can you cut surface roots of trees? ›Tree roots at the surface
Surface roots make it difficult to mow grass. It is tempting to cut these roots off to make mowing easier. A few small roots can be severed on well-established trees. Cutting or damaging roots larger than about one inch diameter could cause harm to the tree.
If you do need to trim grass right up to the base of the trees, or over exposed roots, use a pair of hand shears. It's handy to have an outdoor pillow you can kneel on while doing this, it'll save your knees.
Will a trench digger cut through roots? ›Some trencher models have a built-in blade designed for cutting roots. Moving dirt: Walk-behind trenchers are ideally suited for assisting with small-scale earth shoveling tasks. These machines work best when the application requires reaching a depth of 3-4 feet.
What happens if you use chainsaw in dirt? ›Don't Cut Into Dirt
In addition to dulling the cutters, dirt also wears out the chain links faster, causing the chain to stretch. Plus, dirt wears the sprocket at the bar tip. Always support a log far enough off the ground to give you enough clearance to prevent an accidental slip into the dirt.