Open-Face Notch Tree Felling: Precision, Control and Safety
- Carlton Zakhele
- Aug 3
- 2 min read
Updated: Aug 6
Tree felling is not simply about cutting a notch and letting a tree fall. Every tree is different, and a professional tree felling assessment must consider the natural lean, tree height, trunk diameter, wood strength, tree species, tree condition, surrounding space, wind conditions and nearby structures.
One technique we use is the Open-Face Notch, sometimes called a gapped face. This involves creating a wide, wedge-shaped notch on the side of the tree where it is intended to fall. The wider opening allows the tree to continue moving in the chosen direction for longer before the notch closes, helping to maintain control during the fall.
The depth of the face notch is an important consideration and is commonly around 20–25% of the tree's diameter at the felling height, although there is no single fixed size that is suitable for every tree. The required dimensions can vary according to the tree's diameter, species, wood condition and structural strength.
The hinge wood is equally important. Sufficient wood must be left between the face notch and the back cut to help guide the tree as it falls. The appropriate hinge dimensions depend on the individual tree and its condition. A wider, approximately 90-degree open face can provide a longer range of movement before the notch closes, which can be beneficial when greater control of the fall is required.
However, the notch is only one part of the process. The natural lean of the tree must be carefully assessed, as well as the strength and condition of the trunk. Tree height is also important because the greater the height, the greater the potential impact area when the tree comes down.
Wind can be unpredictable, while creepers and vines growing through the canopy can also influence the direction of a falling tree or branch. For this reason, we add a pulling rope as an additional precaution, helping to provide greater control over the intended direction of the fall.
At Trade & Home Solutions Pty Ltd, we believe professional tree felling is about more than simply removing a tree. It is about understanding the tree, assessing the site and selecting the appropriate technique for the specific conditions. Every tree presents its own challenges, and careful planning is essential for achieving a controlled and safe result.
Need professional tree felling or tree removal in Johannesburg? Contact Trade & Home Solutions for expert tree care and complete garden solutions.
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