Leominster Tree Surgeon Herefordshire: A crucial feature of many gardens and properties in Leominster, trees add substance, style and structure to what can sometimes be an unexciting and two dimensional landscape. However, when trees have been poorly maintained or have been impacted by extreme weather events like gales or flooding, problems may occur. If your trees need attention, it's the safest option to consult a professional tree surgeon in Leominster, for their expert advice prior to any work.
Using an unqualified individual for tree work or trying to do the work on your own, could harm your trees, cause damage to property, or even be life threatening. However, even for professional tree surgeons who are aware of all the dangers, tree work is not entirely safe. On average there are 3 deaths and 140 severe injuries annually within the industry, making it one of the most hazardous jobs in Britain and certainly not for amateurs to try.
With falling branches or trees causing around 5 deaths annually in Britain, a risk to life can even be caused by a damaged or poorly maintained tree. If you bring in somebody to conduct tree work and an injury, or damage to property occurs, you may well be liable for any compensation to any third-party. These are the reasons why it is imperative to employ an accredited tree surgeon to undertake the work on your trees. (Figures sourced from HSE UK).
A trained Leominster tree surgeon ought to be a registered member of one or both of the 2 trade bodies found in Britain. Both the Arboricultural Association (AA) and the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) offers a website where you can check up on the professional standing and membership of any tree surgeon in Leominster. Membership of either of these organisations will give the tree surgeon ARB Approved Contractor status which can be checked out on this webpage.
If an issue arises during the tree work, or after it has been concluded you'll be able to get hold of these trade associations for mediation and for help and guidance.
You should not be frightened to decline the offer of a quote from someone who isn't on this directory, since after all, it is an approved contractor that you are looking for. It's a good idea to get at least three different estimates from various companies in Leominster, once you've meticulously checked their professional associations and accreditations. You should ask the following questions whilst acquiring the quotations, expressing that you need the answers because of the risks of the work involved:
- Can you offer me a quotation in writing? You should only ever accept a quote in writing. NEVER settle for a verbal quote alone.
- Precisely what level of insurance cover do you have? Your tree surgeon ought to be able to show you an insurance certificate covering a minimum of five million pounds public liability, as recommended by the AA and ISA.
- Can I contact a recent person who you've worked for so I can inspect the quality of your work? It's always advisable to perform an independent check on recently accomplished work.
- Can you provide documentary proof of your professional membership, qualifications and a NPTC certificate for chainsaw use? The NPTC/LANTRA certificate is required by law for any tree surgeon/operative who uses a chainsaw. Qualifications may include City & Guilds Certificates and Diplomas in Arboriculture.
On the written quotation that you receive, you'll need there to be easy to follow details of all the tree work that is being undertaken. It should state who is responsible for the removal of debris, tree branches and stumps, and should also include specifics of any trees which might be protected in law, and the steps needed to get permission to carry out work on them. Verify that they have also included VAT on the quotation. You have a responsibility for employing only qualified people to work on your trees and property, and it is important to understand that. This is stated under the "Common law duty of care responsibilities under the Occupier's Liability Acts of 1957 and 1984."
PRIOR TO WORK - The tree surgeon that you've selected in Leominster, will look into whether any of your trees are covered by a a TPO (tree protection order), and will consult with the local authority to find out if the green light for any tree work is forthcoming. Even protected trees need to be maintained in order to cut back old or dead wood and ensure the safety of the public, so finding a tree has protected status does not signify that work cannot be carried out.
If your property in Leominster is situated in a conservation area then no less than 6 weeks written notice is required to the Local Planning Authority (LPA) prior to any work being undertaken. However, tree trunks of under 75 millimetres in diameter when measured at 1.5m from the ground are exempt from this requirement. Also, if a protected tree's branches need to be pruned or thinned to promote and stimulate growth, written notice won't be necessary.
On site they will carry out a thorough assessment of your tree's health and determine the remedial treatment needed and how best to achieve the required outcome in a safe manner. This involves completing a full risk assessment to include public areas, your property and any sections of neighbouring properties that could be affected by falling debris. At this stage, the quantity of workers needed and the level of protection required will also be determined. This will include various safety precautions along with personal protection equipment to ensure the safety of passers-by and adjacent property.
ON THE DAY OF WORK - To keep unauthorised persons and passers-by away from the work area, safety measures, cones and barriers will be put in place before any tree felling, cutting of branches or climbing begins. It might at some point be necessary to halt the traffic temporarily, if there is any danger of debris falling onto the highway.
Subject to the kind of work required a tree surgeon will need different degrees of protection. When carrying out basic tree work with a chainsaw, to prevent serious cutting injuries to the hands, torso and legs, they will as a bare minimum be wearing special protective clothing. At all times, every worker involved in the operation should wear eye and head protection, and hi-vis clothing.
If any working at height is involved, ladders and associated climbing equipment will need to be used, and additional workers will be there to assist in the safe removal of high branches and pieces of tree trunk. For the removal of waste materials, access to the site will be needed. Therefore, it is a good idea to inform your neighbours, since a truck or skip will need to be stationed as close to the work area as possible whilst the work progresses.
AFTER COMPLETION OF WORK - As soon as the tree work has been finished all the waste will be transported away and the area cleared of any debris. Your tree surgeon will then sign off and give you a certificate of work, especially when the trees are protected. Pathways and roads can then be re-opened, and any safety measures places in public spaces taken away.
Issues or problems should be put right straight away by approaching your tree surgeon directly. If there's any further dispute or arbitration required, and your tree surgeon is an approved member of a professional trade body, you can obtain advice and guidance from the AA or the ISA in order to reach an acceptable solution.
Local Leominster tree surgeons are most likely have the postcode HR6 and the telephone code 01568. They will work in Leominster itself, as well as nearby areas such as Luston, Stretford, Leysters, Eardisland, Kimbolton, Brimfield, Bodenham, Docklow, Hope under Dinmore, Berrington, Orleton, Broadward, Pembridge, Weobley, Kingsland, and these postcodes: HR6 0AN, HR6 0QA, HR6 8HJ, HR6 0LX, HR6 8EA, HR6 0ST, HR6 8HZ, HR6 8EZ, HR6 0QQ, HR6 8DJ.
If you need this sort of service it is definitely wise to use a competent tree surgeon. Leominster business and home owners can benefit greatly from the expertise that are the trademark of a trained professional.
Dutch Elm Disease
No longer the problem that it once was, Dutch Elm Disease (Ophiostoma novo-ulmi) has wiped out many millions of precious elm trees throughout the United Kingdom over the past 50 years or so. Accidentally imported into the United Kingdom from North America (Canada) in the 1960's, Dutch Elm Disease is spread by the elm bark beetle and caused by the Ophiostoma novo-ulmi fungus.
Through the nationwide transportation of elm products like elm crates, mulching bark, saplings, and firewood logs with the bark still attached, it was rapidly spread through Britain after first arriving. It was not just the United Kingdom that was affected by this horrific disease, because stocks of elms were also destroyed in continental Europe, North America and New Zealand.
The first symptoms of Dutch Elm Disease are:
- A "shepherd's crook" reaction on affected twigs.
- Dark streaks under the bark of twigs.
- Shoots that die back from the tip.
- Clusters of leaves turning yellow, wilting and falling.
It generally starts to appear in early summer.
The spread of this disease has been slowed by the chopping down of infected, dying and dead trees, which has in essence eradicated the elm bark beetle's favourite habitat. The propagation of young trees which are so far resistant to DED is an ongoing project.
If you happen to have elm trees on your property in Leominster, and suspect they may be affected by Dutch Elm Disease, you should get in touch with your neighbourhood tree surgeon for advice, or ask for a diagnosis from the Tree Health Diagnostic and Advisory Service (THDAS).
Tree families affected: Ulmacae and Zelkova.
Agent of spread - small beetles of the Scolytus family.
Cause - fungi Ophiostoma Novo-Ulmi & Ophiostoma Ulmi.
Woodland Clearance Leominster
Woodland clearance in the Leominster area is a sensitive process that can be influenced by a number of regulations and restrictions. To ensure that all relevant permits are gathered, restrictions and land covenants are observed, and that all methods of completing the clearance are ecologically responsible, a professional Leominster tree surgeon should be engaged to manage and undertake the project.
An accredited company will liaise with local and national woodland organisations and authorities and carry out a full site survey. If it is learned that protected animal or plant life is on the site to be cleared, it may be necessary to relocate these species, if approval is given by the relevant authorities.
The specialist chipping, felling and mulching equipment that is used in woodland clearance means it is usually far more efficient and cost effective to hire a certified tree surgeon to tackle your project. (Tags: Woodland Clearance Leominster, Woodland Management Leominster, Woodland Clearances Leominster, Woodland Preservation Leominster).
A Tree Surgeons's Everyday Tasks
- Evaluate the health of trees and create treatment plan.
- Chip and cut logs and branches.
- Establish hazards posed by trees.
- Deal with customers and complete administrative tasks.
- Climb trees to remove or prune branches.
- Fell and remove trees and perform stump grinding.
- Prepare tree survey reports for both commercial and domestic clients.
- Clean up work area on completion and remove waste products from customer's site.
- Service equipment like chainsaws and chippers.
- Be proficient with power tools and other powered equipment.
- Tree planting and transplanting.
- Create telephone or on-site price quotes for clients.
Accidents Through Tree Surgery
As has been stated previously in this article, the work that is tackled by tree surgeons and tree care professionals in Leominster can be very hazardous. All possible safety measures should be taken when carrying out work on trees, because most tree work involves a significant risk of injuries to both operatives and passers-by.
A large majority of major and fatal injuries are linked to the use of chainsaws, falls from trees, and being hit by a falling tree or branch, according to the HSE. The startling fact is that arborists that are involved in tree care work are more at risk of injuring themselves seriously than those who are working in construction.
The most accident claims, in terms of insurance, are for slipping from ladders, lifting injuries and being struck by objects (ropes, branches, grapple hooks, cranes, trees etc).
This all underlines the importance of employing a professional Leominster tree surgeon to work on your trees. In the tree care sector, a lot of accidents can be attributed to unskilled workers trying to carry out tasks that they are not trained to do, or capable of. Consequently, using an experienced and trustworthy Leominster company who have been trading in the local area for a number of years, is the best way to avoid such problems.
Cable Bracing Trees Leominster
A method that's used to provide support for a tree when it is showing signs of decay or damage or is a risk to nearby persons or property, cable bracing can be extremely useful in the right situation. Cable bracing is frequently used on valuable or older trees in Leominster where it is undesirable to fell the tree or cut out large unstable portions.
A cable bracing set-up can be employed for supporting poor joints, V-shaped forks and weak tree limbs. Executing different kinds of bracing work, a tree surgeon will be equipped to use cables and rods to help alleviate structural stress, and ideally prolong the life of veteran trees in Leominster.
A non-invasive approach, that doesn't damage the tree by drilling and bolting the problematic branches, cable bracing provides both flexible and shock-absorbing support. A risk assessment must be carried out by a tree surgeon or arborist before any actual work can begin. This is vital to guarantee the safety of the tree and nearby areas as the work proceeds. (Tags: Cable Bracing Trees Leominster, Cable Bracing Techniques Leominster, Tree Cable Bracing Leominster, Cable Bracing Leominster).
The ISA (International Society of Arboriculture)
Having its headquarters in Atlanta, Georgia, USA, the International Society of Arboriculture, usually referred to as the ISA is a non-profit organisation that encourages the benefits and awareness of trees. Serving the tree care industry across the world, the ISA is a membership association that cultivates the professional practice of arboriculture, and provides credentials for tree care professionals.
Allowing individuals in the tree care sector to develop their knowledge, skills and arboricultural expertise, the ISA is solidly focused on education, technology and research, which it makes available by way of educational events, services and publications.
In 2016 the UK's Arboricultural Association (AA) became an associate organisation of the ISA after signing a partnership agreement with them. The relationship between the two organisations was thus strengthened, and more opportunities made available for UK and Ireland ISA members. UK members of the AA can now enjoy the benefits of being an integral part of a worldwide tree care network. Boasting over 22,000 members globally the ISA now has associate organisations and professional affiliates in EXTRAtree shaping, airspading, waste removal, tree work, tree felling in Leominster, tree topping, tree staking in Leominster, site clearance, crown removal, emergency tree surgery, safety inspections, root flare exposure, eco-plugging, dead wooding, tree watering, the protection of trees from grazing animals, crown thinning Leominster, vegetation management, hazard assessment Leominster, tree pest control, woodland management, landscaping, hedge laying, hedge lowering, tree care in Leominster, damaged tree cutting and removal in Leominster, crown raising Leominster, fruit tree pruning, tree surveys, forestry managementTEN, and the UK.
Skills and Knowledge Needed to be a Tree Surgeon in Leominster
- Be professional and capable of completing tasks within a given timeframe.
- Be capable of maintaining, repairing and using equipment and tools.
- Physical skills like movement and co-ordination.
- To be able to complete common tasks on a computer or hand-held device.
- Have the ability to work efficiently with others.
- Have a good understanding of public safety.
- Be mindful of the complexities and dangers involved with the various aspects of tree work.
- Decent customer skills.
- Have patience and the ability to remain calm and focused in stressful circumstances.
- To be thorough and pay close attention to detail.
- Have the ability to work well with your hands.
Chainsaws in Tree Surgery
Arguably the most common piece of equipment used by Leominster tree surgeons, the chainsaw, in untrained hands, is also the most dangerous. Even though battery and mains electric models of chainsaw are available, the most popular with tree care professionals are powered by petrol, because of their ease of use and greater portability. Where large tree trunks and thick branches need cutting, such heavy tree work demands the use of the most robust and powerful petrol chainsaws.
Essentially, a chainsaw comprises a motor-driven chain which has a set of razor-sharp teeth for cutting through bark and wood. For the varied tasks that are required, there are different types of chainsaw, pole saws for hard to reach branches and long distance pruning, rear-handled for working on the ground (two handed) and top-handled for working at height (and which can be operated with one hand).
Whilst it's not the safest thing to be climbing up a tree with, it is very rare that you'll find a professional Leominster tree surgeon that doesn't use a chainsaw just about every day. Being trained in the maintenance and safe use of chainsaws is a key requirement for any tree surgeon, and is essential before they can be approved by the ISA or the Arboricultural Association (AA).
The most popular makers of chainsaw used in Leominster by tree surgery specialists are Stihl, Husqvarna, Makita and Hyundai, although of course there are various different makes.
Vegetation Management
Although a lot of property owners in Leominster will assume that tree surgeons only tackle the maintenance and removal of trees, that's really not the truth, because the vast majority of tree surgeons are also willing to take care of overgrown gardens and land that is clogged up with proliferating plant growth. Usually tree specialists will be quite happy to get rid of weeds, overgrown vegetation, bushes and shrubs that might be taking hold near sheds, drives, paths, buildings or walls, and being an issue. If you're to maintain your garden properly then all this ever increasing growth must be cut back regularly, and if you find you have the time and inclination this is something you can undertake on your own if you are fit and well, or you could get your local tree surgeon to pay a visit now and again to make certain it is under control. The management of vegetation is necessary if you are to maintain safe and easy entry to every part of your property and if this is not done the plants and vegetation can soon take over and take a lot of the enjoyment out of your garden. Aside from everything else your garden will also look a picture when properly maintained. (Tags: De-Vegetation Services Herefordshire, Vegetation Control Herefordshire, Vegetation Management Herefordshire)
Deadwooding Leominster
All experienced tree surgeons in Leominster will carry out the procedure known as dead-wooding, which is an important part of tree care. Calling for the careful removal or dead and rotting branches which could pose a danger to homes, vehicles or pedestrians, dead-wooding can help make a tree both healthier and safer. The most widespread reasons for tree branches dying are root damage, light deficiency, attack by pests or disease, and this is of course a purely natural process.
The purpose of removing dead branches is most often one of safety, nonetheless, it's also done to benefit the tree of simply to make the tree look more appealing. A tree that has an excess of damaged, dying and dead branches is susceptible to disease and insect infestation, so you can dramatically improve a tree's health by removing these offending branches. A tree with lots of dead wood can also have an unsightly appearance, so this can be removed to get your tree looking great once more.
Generally only larger dead branches will be removed, because small ones present very little risk. Even so, it may be advisable to remove any dead branches that are over 50mm in diameter, where trees in Leominster overhang a highway, a park, a garden, a public area or a property.
Tree Surgery Tasks Leominster
Leominster tree surgeons can generally help with tree shaping, airspading, waste removal, tree work, tree felling in Leominster, tree topping, tree staking in Leominster, site clearance, crown removal, emergency tree surgery, safety inspections, root flare exposure, eco-plugging, dead wooding, tree watering, the protection of trees from grazing animals, crown thinning Leominster, vegetation management, hazard assessment Leominster, tree pest control, woodland management, landscaping, hedge laying, hedge lowering, tree care in Leominster, damaged tree cutting and removal in Leominster, crown raising Leominster, fruit tree pruning, tree surveys, forestry management and other tree surgeon services in Leominster, Herefordshire. Listed are just an example of the tasks that are performed by a local tree surgeon. Leominster providers will tell you about their whole range of services.
Tree Surgeons Nearby
Also find: Pembridge tree surgeon, Docklow tree surgeon, Luston tree surgeon, Eardisland tree surgeon, Broadward tree surgeon, Kingsland tree surgeon, Orleton tree surgeon, Bodenham tree surgeon, Weobley tree surgeon, Leysters tree surgeon, Kimbolton tree surgeon, Hope under Dinmore tree surgeon, Brimfield tree surgeon, Berrington tree surgeon and more. Pretty much all of these places are covered by local tree surgeons. Residents in the area can acquire estimates for tree surgery by clicking here.
Tree Care Services Leominster
- Leominster Shrub Maintenance
- Leominster Tree Management
- Leominster Tree Dismantling
- Leominster Stump Grinding
- Leominster Air-Spading
- Leominster Hedge Reduction
- Leominster Tree Bracing
- Leominster Tree Shaping
- Leominster Arboriculture
- Leominster Vegetation Management
- Leominster Site Clearance
- Leominster Hedge Trimming
- Leominster Tree Pruning
- Leominster Tree Lopping
To find local Leominster information take a look here
Tree Surgeon Jobs Leominster: Find Leominster tree surgeon jobs here: Leominster Tree Surgeon Jobs
Tree Surgery HR6 area, 01568.
Root Removal Leominster - 01568 - Crown Lifting Leominster - Tree Removal Leominster - HR6 - Tree Care Leominster - Tree Management Leominster - Arboriculture Leominster - Tree Surgeons Leominster