Best Tree Removal Techniques for Winston Salem Properties

Is it finally time to take down a large tree in your Winston-Salem yard? If so, there are numerous ways to remove it. But depending on the size of the tree, its condition, and where it’s located, specific techniques might be needed to ensure it comes down safely, without causing damage to your home or landscape.

Here are the most common professional tree removal techniques used in the Winston-Salem area, and when each technique is most often used.

Key Takeaways:

• Different tree removal techniques require specific equipment and expertise to ensure safety and prevent property damage.
• Tree removals are often performed with climbers, by using bucket trucks, or by using high-tech cranes.
• Emergency tree removals usually utilize cranes to safely remove fallen trees from homes without causing additional damage.
• Property protection methods, including ground mats and barriers, prevent expensive damage during the removal process.

Climbing & Rope Work

Tree climbing is an art form that requires years of training and specialized gear to execute safely. For trees in tight spaces or surrounded by delicate landscaping, technical climbing offers unparalleled precision and control. Expert climbers can ascend trees, dismantling them piece by piece. The pieces are then carefully lowered with a complex system of ropes and rigging equipment.

With this technique, every cut is planned with precision, accounting for branch weight, wood tension, and drop zones. Advanced rigging setups allow for complete control as sections are lowered to designated safe zones, eliminating the risk of falling debris damaging buildings, fences, or plants below.

But climbing isn’t suitable for every situation. Dead or severely decayed trees may be too unstable for climbers to work safely. That’s why having access to multiple removal methods is essential for handling any tree removal scenario.

2. Tree Removal with a Bucket Truck

When conditions and space allow, bucket truck removal offers one of the most efficient and safe approaches to tree removal. This method provides arborists quick access to the tree canopy while keeping their feet firmly planted on a stable platform.

Using a bucket truck means less climbing gear and rigging setup time. The stabilized platform allows for clean, controlled cuts. And with Godspeed’s 55-foot bucket trucks, even tall trees can be safely dismantled from above, section by section.

The main limitation of bucket trucks is access. They require solid, level ground and enough space to position the truck and deploy stabilizing outriggers. For properties with limited access or sensitive landscaping that can’t support heavy equipment, climbing or crane assisted removal may be better options.

3. Traditional Tree Felling

Tree felling is a straightforward but deceptively complex removal method that requires extensive experience and planning to execute safely. This is what most DIYers attempt when performing their own tree removal. And without ideal conditions and extensive training, a lot can go wrong.

When space permits, directional felling allows for removing a tree in one piece by cutting it at the base and guiding its fall in a predetermined direction. This method works best in open areas away from structures, but even then, it must be done with extreme precision.

Tree felling can be beneficial due to:

• A fast and efficient removal process
• No need to bring in heavy equipment like bucket trucks or cranes
• Faster cleanup, since entire trees can often go through our advanced chippers

Before making a single cut, professionals evaluate the surroundings, identify potential obstacles and establish a clear fall zone. Precise notch cuts and back cuts guide the direction in which the tree falls, while escape routes ensure worker safety. Special equipment like wedges and felling bars provide additional control during the process.

4. Crane-Assisted Tree Removal

When a tree’s location, size, or condition makes traditional removal methods too risky, crane-assisted removal can provide excellent control and safety. This technique is particularly effective at removing trees located too close to buildings, in-between buildings, or in a tight backyard where traditional equipment can’t access.

With crane assisted removal, a certified crane operator works in coordination with skilled arborists. The crane’s cable system supports large sections of the tree while cuts are made (often by climbers), eliminating the risk of uncontrolled drops or branch failures.

The benefits of crane assisted removal include:

• Minimal impact on surrounding landscape
• Reduced risk to nearby structures
• Ability to remove trees in tight or hard-to-access locations
• Faster completion of large tree removals
• Better control over the entire removal process

While crane removal might seem like overkill for smaller trees, it often proves cost-effective for complex situations by preventing property damage and completing jobs more efficiently than traditional methods.

5. Grapple Saw Tree Removal

For more complex tree removals, Godspeed Tree Service uses cutting-edge grapple saw technology. Our specialized truck features a 106-foot boom and remote-controlled operation, allowing us to handle the most complicated situations with relative ease.

Unlike traditional methods, the grapple saw combines lifting power with a built-in saw. Operated entirely by remote control, the grapple mechanism securely grips sections of the tree while making clean, precise cuts. This eliminates the need for climbers in dangerous positions.

The grapple saw thrives where traditional methods would be unsafe:

• Removing dead or unstable trees that could break or fall at any moment
• Working in tight spaces between buildings
• Handling trees with complex lean patterns
• Removing storm-damaged trees
• Working near sensitive infrastructure
• Removing trees on slopes or near water

Godspeed Tree Service is proud to offer grapple saw tree removals to Winston-Salem residents. There are very few of these advanced machines in our area.

6. Emergency Tree Removal

No one ever wants to deal with emergency tree removals, but in our area, where storms and even the occasional hurricane can cause extensive damage, you may someday require this service. Luckily, you can reach our team 24/7 for emergency tree situations.

When a tree falls over or drops a large branch onto your home, car, or driveway, speedy service is a must to keep people safe and prevent further damage. The team at Godspeed has the equipment and expertise to safely remove any fallen or hazardous tree without causing any additional damage. Often, if a tree falls onto a home, like what happened during a storm in September 2024, we’ll use a crane to safely remove the tree. If roof damage has occurred, we can also tarp the roof to help prevent further problems.

When a tree falls over, it may be tempting to pull out the chainsaw and try to dismantle it yourself. But this is extremely dangerous. Fallen trees could be under immense pressure. By cutting or moving the tree, it may react abruptly. Injuries and deaths aren’t uncommon for homeowners who attempt to remove a fallen tree from their home. Instead, leave it to the professionals.

Property Protection During Tree Removal

Protecting your property during tree removal isn’t an afterthought at Godspeed; it’s built into every step of our process. Before any equipment arrives at your property, our crew develops a comprehensive protection plan. This attention to detail helps prevent the costly damage that often occurs during less careful removals.

Ground protection goes far beyond basic plywood boards. Special mats distribute equipment weight to prevent soil compaction and lawn damage. Protective barriers shield concrete surfaces from impact damage. And careful equipment staging ensures minimal disruption to surrounding landscaping.

After we’ve removed a tree from your property, we’ll clean up so well that you won’t even know we were there.

FAQs About Tree Removal

How long does tree removal take?

Most single tree removals can be completed in one day. Large or complex removals might require additional time, especially when crane work is involved. Smaller trees can often be handled in a few hours.

What happens to the debris?

Godspeed’s three professional chippers can handle branches and smaller material on site. Larger wood can be hauled away or left for firewood if requested. The property is always left clean and tidy after removal.

Do you remove the stump too?

Stump grinding is a separate service but can be scheduled along with tree removal. Most stumps are ground 4 to 6 inches below grade, with deeper grinding available if needed for replanting.

Schedule Safe & Professional Tree Removal with Godspeed Tree

When it comes to protecting your Winston Salem property during tree removal, experience and equipment make all the difference. Godspeed Tree Service brings decades of local expertise and state of the art equipment to every job, ensuring safe, efficient removal with minimal impact on your property.

Don’t wait until a tree becomes an emergency. Contact Godspeed today at 336-399-8348 or request a free quote online.