Doncaster Tree Surgeons (DN1) South Yorkshire: Trees are a vital feature of many gardens and properties in Doncaster, and they can transform a largely two dimensional landscape by adding structure, substance and style. But problems can occur when trees are neglected or are impacted by extreme weather conditions, for example storms or flooding. The safest option if there's work that needs performing on your trees, is to speak to an experienced tree surgeon in Doncaster.
There's a major risk of damage to property, the trees and to life, for people in Doncaster who attempt to do tree work on their own, or by using an unqualified operative. However, even for qualified tree surgeons who are familiar with all the dangers, tree work is not entirely safe. Tree surgery is certainly not a job for novices, and on average there are 3 deaths and 140 severe injuries a year within the industry, making it among the most hazardous jobs in Britain.
With around five people per year being killed by falling branches and trees in the United Kingdom, even a damaged or neglected tree can also pose a danger to life. You might be liable for any compensation to a third-party as a consequence of your actions, if you employ somebody to perform tree work and an injury, or damage to property occurs. These are merely some of the reasons why using the services of an accredited Doncaster tree surgeon to work on your trees is imperative. (All figures are from HSE UK).
There are two principal professional arboricultural bodies, at least one of which a certified Doncaster tree surgeon should be a signed up member of. You can view the professional status and membership of any Doncaster tree surgeon on the websites of either the Arboricultural Association or the International Society of Arboriculture. This page enables you to check if any specific local tree surgeon has Approved ARB Contractor status, and has membership of either of these associations.
If a problem emerges during the work, or after it has been finished you'll be able to get hold of these trade organisations for assistance in arbitration and for help and guidance.
If anyone offers you a quotation for any tree work and you are unable to find them on this directory list, you should politely decline their offer of work and carry on with your search for an approved tree surgeon. You should try and get a minimum of three quotations from different companies in the Doncaster area as soon as you are reassured of their professional accreditations and associations. There are a number of important questions that you need to ask while you are getting these quotes, and due to the risks involved in tree work, you should make it clear that you need them to provide you with the answers. You should for instance ask:
- Can you provide me with a quotation in writing? You should NEVER settle for just a verbal quote. Only ever accept a written quote.
- Can I contact some former clients so that I can inspect the standard of your tree work? It's generally advisable to perform an independent examination of recently accomplished work.
- What insurance cover do you provide? As stipulated by the ISA and AA, your tree surgeon should be able to produce a certificate covering a minimum of five million pounds public liability insurance.
- Do you have a NPTC/LANTRA certificate for the use of a chainsaw, and documentary proof of your qualifications and professional memberships? It's required by law that any tree surgeon using a chainsaw must have a NPTC/LANTRA certificate. Qualifications can include National Diplomas and Certificates in Arboriculture.
The written quote that you're provided with should include easy to follow details about the planned tree work. Who is responsible for the removal of waste, tree branches and stumps should be stated, as should specifics of any trees which may be protected, and the required steps to obtain permission to carry out work on them. Unless you are a commercial business, you should also make certain that VAT is included on the quotation. Recognising that you have a responsibility to employ only skilled tradespeople to work on your property and trees, is extremely important. This is laid out by the "Common law duty of care responsibilities and sometimes liabilities under the Occupier's Liability Acts of 1957 and 1984."
PRIOR TO WORK - The tree surgeon that you have chosen in Doncaster, will be able to look into whether any of the trees on your property are under a protection order, and will check with the local authority if the green light for any tree work is possible. Finding a tree has got protected status doesn't signify that work cannot be carried out, since even protected trees need to be maintained so as to cut back dead or damaged wood and ensure the safety of the public.
If your property in Doncaster is within a conservation area then at least six weeks written notice must be given to the Local Planning Authority (LPA) before any tree work can be conducted. However, tree stems of under 75 millimetres in diameter when measured at 1.5m above ground level are exempt from this requirement. If the thinning or pruning of a protected tree's branches are required to sustain and promote growth, notice is also not necessary.
After assessing the health of your trees, your Doncaster tree surgeon will determine the necessary treatments and how the best outcome can be safely achieved. Where there's any possibility of falling debris, a full risk assessment will have to be performed on public spaces, your property, and sections of a neighbour's property that could be affected. At this point, the level of protection required and the number of workers needed will also be ascertained. This will include various safety precautions together with personal protective equipment (PPE) to ensure the safety of passers-by and adjacent property.
ON THE DAY OF WORK - To keep unauthorised persons away from the work area, barriers, safety measures and cones will be put in place before any cutting of branches, tree felling or climbing commences. Where there is the possibility of branches and debris falling onto a road, it might be necessary to halt the traffic briefly.
Different degrees of protection will be needed by the tree surgeon depending on what tree work needs to be done. At the very least they're going to be wearing specialist protective clothing to avoid serious cutting injuries to the hands, torso and legs, when working with a chainsaw. Every worker involved in the operation, should at all times be wearing high visibility clothing, together with eye and head protection.
Additional staff will normally be needed to assist in the safe removal of high branches and large sections of tree trunk, particularly if working at height is involved, and where ladders and associated climbing equipment is being used. It is a good idea to inform your neighbours of the need for unhindered access, because a pickup truck or skip for removing the waste will be stationed as close to the work area as possible.
AFTER COMPLETION OF WORK - The whole site can be cleared of all debris, and all the waste materials can be hauled away, once all tree work has been concluded. Especially where the trees are under a protection order, a certificate of work done should then be created by your tree surgeon, which will be signed off and a copy handed to you. Any safety measures that were put in public spaces can then be taken down, with highways and footpaths being re-opened to the public.
If you've got any complaints about or issues with the work, you should get them rectified straight away by firstly taking them up with the tree surgeon. If your tree surgeon is a registered member of a professional body, and there is any further dispute or arbitration required, you can get guidance and advice from the International Society of Arboriculture or the Arboricultural Association in order to reach a satisfactory solution.
Hedge Trimming Doncaster
Although the maintenance and care of trees and shrubs is the main focus of tree surgeons in Doncaster, they're regularly asked to look after hedges, for example controlling the height and routine trimming. Using a professional tree surgeon will be a big advantage when working on conifer hedges such as Leylandii, which can soon grow too tall for your average gardener to cope with, requiring specialist tools to successfully manage.
When poorly maintained and neglected a hedge can fairly quickly become overgrown and out of control. If you prefer to have a hedge that does not overrun large sections of your garden in Doncaster, frequent clipping is a must, and this is imperative not only for cosmetic reasons, but also to make your hedge much stronger and healthier.
If you have plans to sell your property, neat hedges will help to make your whole garden more tidy, and may even increase the value of your home in Doncaster. You can also get hedge trimming in Wheatley, Hexthorpe, Highfields, Edenthorpe, Scawsby, Kirk Sandall, Cusworth, Balby, Long Sandall, Arksey, Bessacarr, and and of course Doncaster.
Conservation Areas & Tree Preservation Orders Doncaster
You must make sure there is not a Tree Preservation Order (TPO) on your trees in Doncaster, before you perform any significant work on them. You need to contact your local planning authority to find out if any of the trees on your property are covered by Tree Preservation Orders. If there are Tree Preservation Orders on any of your trees, you'll need local authority consent (in writing) to perform any of the following: cutting down, wilful destruction, lopping, removal, topping, uprooting or wilful damage. Speak to your tree surgeon if you are worried about this - they should be able to check this out for you.
Also, if you want to conduct any work on a tree with a diameter of seventy five millimetres or more (1.5 metres from ground level), and you reside in a conservation area in Doncaster, you need to give your local authority at least six weeks written notice of the work. (Tags: Tree Preservation Orders Doncaster, TPOs Doncaster, Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs) Doncaster).
Invasive Tree Root Problems Doncaster
When they are growing too close to your property in Doncaster, some trees have particularly intrusive roots, and can be troublesome. These problems could include things like damaged foundations, blocked drains and lifting patios, to name just three. Elms, maples, willows and sycamores, are renowned for having extremely invasive root systems.
If you happen to be planting any new trees, make certain they're located far enough away from pathways, patio areas, your sewerage pipes and your house, so that they won't lead to problems in the future. You must get in touch with a tree surgeon in Doncaster, to see what can be done to resolve the situation, if pre-existing trees are growing too close to your home and are leading to one or more of these problems.
This is not really the sort of job you should try and do for yourself, and just cutting out the offending roots could kill off the tree or seriously affect it's overall health. To survive successfully, a tree will still need to get sufficient food and water, and a skilled arborist in Doncaster will know which roots should be left in place, and which roots can be safely cut back.
Cracks in underground drainage systems are commonly caused by shrub and tree roots, because a consistent source of moisture and nutrients is present in these settings. The joints of a drainage system can very soon be compromised by teeny roots, which when established can develop into huge root balls and eventually cause joint failure and blockages. To remove the roots that are causing the problem, specialist root removal solutions will be offered by many Doncaster tree surgeons, who'll use high pressure water jetting, manual rod clearance or electro-mechanical equipment. You should also be able to obtain root removal in Wheatley, Hexthorpe, Highfields, Edenthorpe, Scawsby, Kirk Sandall, Cusworth, Balby, Long Sandall, Arksey, Bessacarr, and in Doncaster, South Yorkshire.
Air-Spading Doncaster
When you're concerned about the health of a tree, it may be down to a number of factors, but problems with a tree's root system is a common cause of such concerns. Easy access to the roots of your tree is essential for a local tree surgeon in Doncaster to check for root rot, soil compaction and other potential issues.
Previously this was quite tricky, due to the possibility of root damage in the process of digging down. The system that numerous modern day tree surgeons use is known as "air spading", which is where compressed air is employed to efficiently break down and clear away compressed soil without causing damage to tree roots or utilities.
The soil surrounding tree roots can get compacted by foot traffic, passing vehicles or building work, and this can have a negative impact on the general health of a tree. When a tree becomes "stressed" it's more susceptible to attack by pests, insects and diseases, and this stress can be caused by a lack of water and nutrients. Root flare issues can also be solved with air-spading, and this is when the flare around the base of the stem gets covered with soil, heightening the chance of root rot by causing tissue breakdown.
Involving the use of an air-spading tool and an air compressor, the air-spading process blows air into the soil at high speed (1,200 mph), this breaks it apart by entering spaces in the soil, but has no effect on the tree roots or nearby utilities. As the surrounding soil is forced away from the roots by the powerful flow of air, immediate inspection is possible. A solution can then be implemented for any problems, and the soil replaced with a looser layer of wood chips and fertiliser to help encourage the tree to rejuvenate.
Skills Needed by Tree Surgeons in Doncaster
- Be alert to the dangers and complexities involved in all aspects of the work.
- Good customer skills.
- Have an organised approach to work.
- Have a good understanding of public security and safety.
- To be able to accomplish basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device.
- Be able to work with your hands.
- Physical skills like co-ordination and movement.
- Be professional and capable of completing tasks within a given period.
- Be capable of using, repairing and maintaining equipment and tools.
- Have patience and the ability to stay focused in times of stress.
- Being able to work alongside other people.
Dutch Elm Disease
Destroying tree stocks and killing many millions of elm trees right through the British Isles over the past 50 years or so, Dutch Elm Disease (Ophiostoma novo-ulmi) is not so common now, as it was previously. Accidentally imported into Britain, in infected elm logs imported from Canada in the Sixties, Dutch Elm Disease (DED) is caused by the fungus Ophiostoma novo-ulmi which is spread by the elm bark beetle.
Its rapid spread was primarily down to to elm products such as mulching bark, saplings, elm crates, and logs with the bark still attached, being moved throughout the British Isles. It was not just the United Kingdom that was affected by this horrific disease, since the stocks of elms were also devastated in mainland Europe and North America.
Normally first showing up in early summer, the main signs of Dutch Elm Disease disease are:
- Clusters of yellow leaves that wilt and then fall.
- Shoots that die back from the tip.
- A "shepherd's crook" effect on affected twigs.
- Twigs with dark streaks beneath the bark.
The spread of this disease has been slowed by the felling and removal of dead, dying and infected trees, which has essentially eradicated the favourite habitat of the beetle. There is currently a continuing project for the propagation of young saplings which are so far resistant to DED.
You can ask for a diagnosis from the THDAS (Tree Health Diagnostic & Advisory Service), or you can get in touch with your local tree surgeon for help and advice, if you happen to have elm trees in your garden in Doncaster, and suspect that they might be affected by Dutch Elm Disease.
The International Society of Arboriculture
With its headquarters in the United States, the International Society of Arboriculture, usually referred to as simply the ISA is an international, non-profit organisation that encourages the awareness and benefits of trees. Serving the tree care industry all over the world, the ISA is a membership association that advances the professional practice of arboriculture, and provides credentials for tree care professionals.
Promoting best practices in tree care, and focusing on research, technology and education, the ISA provides educational services, events and publications fully develop the arboricultural expertise, skills and knowledge of people working in the tree care industry.
In mid-2016 the UK's AA (Arboricultural Association) became an associate organisation of the International Society of Arboriculture after signing a partnership agreement with them. The relationship between the two was therefore strengthened, and more opportunities made available for United Kingdom and Ireland ISA members. Being part of a wide and varied worldwide network of tree care professionals is something that ISA and AA members in the UK and Ireland are now able to benefit from. The ISA now has over 22,000 members worldwide with professional affiliates and associate organisations in Asia, Australia, New Zealand, Europe, South Africa, and the United Kingdom.
Chainsaws
The most commonplace tool that Doncaster tree surgeons use is the chainsaw. It's a versatile and effective tool, but in the wrong hands, also a dangerous one. The most popular style of chainsaw with professional users is the petrol powered version, being easily handled and more portable, although you are able to obtain mains operated chainsaws and rechargeable battery ones. Petrol driven chainsaws are really the only choice for heavy tree work, being extremely robust, powerful and able to cut effortlessly through limbs and trunks of any proportions.
Comprising a revolving chain containing a series of teeth that slice through the bark and branches, a chainsaw is actually a fairly simple piece of equipment. There are also a variety of designs of chainsaw, top-handled for working at height (and which can be used with one hand), pole saws for hard to reach branches and long distance pruning and rear-handled for work at ground level (must be used with two hands).
You will very rarely find a tree surgeon in Doncaster who does not use a chainsaw, although climbing high up a tree with a rapidly spinning blade in your hand isn't a particularly safe thing to do. Being fully trained in the safe use of chainsaws is a primary requirement for any tree surgeon, and is crucial before they can even be considered for approval by the ISA or the AA (Arboricultural Association).
For anyone interested in purchasing a chainsaw in the UK, there are various makes on the market, but the most popular with professional tree surgeons are Husqvarna, Hyundai, Stihl and Makita.
Tree Surveys Doncaster
There are a variety of reasons why you may require a tree survey, and the most commonplace is for property extension or development. As outlined by British Standards BS5837 (2012), if you are clearing a piece of land to make room for a new home or an extension to an existing property in Doncaster, and there are trees growing on that land, you may need to do a professional tree survey. Tree surveys on both private and public property in Doncaster, must be handled by a qualified tree surgeon or tree surveyor.
A good deal of information about all of the trees within a specified area will be gleaned by a properly done tree survey. For example:
- The branch spread towards the West, East, North and South.
- The predicted lifespan of the trees.
- The height of each tree in metres.
- The physiological and structural health of the trees.
- The existence of any TPOs (Tree Preservation Orders).
- A tree reference number for each of the trees.
- The number of trees (those of over 75mm diameter 1.5m from ground level).
- The age of the trees.
- The diameter of each tree (measured 1.5m above the ground).
- The species of each tree.
- Tree management recommendations.
You will probably not need to carry out a tree survey if you're altering an existing home or property in Doncaster but you aren't changing the footprint of the property and aren't changing the access points or service lines. (Tags: Arboricultural Surveyors Doncaster, Doncaster Tree Surveys, Tree Survey Doncaster, Tree Surveys Doncaster).
A Tree Surgeons's Regular Tasks
- Deal with clients and complete administrative tasks.
- Tidy work area on completion and remove waste products from client's site.
- Create telephone or on-site quotes for customers.
- Maintain and service equipment like wood chippers and chainsaws.
- Assess tree health and treatments.
- Be competent using power tools and other powered equipment.
- Identify dangers presented by trees.
- Plant trees and vegetation.
- Climb trees to remove or prune branches.
- Prepare tree survey reports for both commercial and domestic clients.
- Cut and chip branches and logs.
- Fell and remove trees and perform stump grinding.
Protecting Trees and Shrubs in the Wintertime
Although the winter climate is seldom severe enough to justify protecting your trees and shrubs, it is always worth considering as a precaution. Even the trees, shrubs and plants that we usually consider to be hardy, can find the winter season hard to get through, particularly during the colder months, and they will always benefit from some extra protection and TLC.
When you have trees in your garden in Doncaster, it is storms and strong winds that are the biggest concern, and they may still be vulnerable even though most of them will already have dropped their leaves when winter arrives, thus being less resistant to wind. If the weather in Doncaster has been windy, and a tree in your garden looks to be damaged or in danger of falling, it's wise to bring in a tree surgeon to assess whether any action is necessary. Heavy snow can also cause branches to snap, so stay alert when these sorts of weather conditions are anticipated. Protection from ice and frost may be needed for some trees and shrubs (particularly ones that have been recently planted), and a deep layer of mulch spread around their bases can help to keep their roots from freezing, and enable them to continue absorbing moisture.
Tree Surgery Tasks Doncaster
Doncaster tree surgeons can normally help with tree inspections in Doncaster, eco plug treatments Doncaster, staking, tree replanting, root grinding Doncaster, tree fertilising, tree bracing, retrenchment pruning, tree waste removal, crown thinning, drop crotching, root removal, tree reduction, stump treatment in Doncaster, decompaction, damage restoration, tree dismantling, crown raising, tree planning Doncaster, tree pest control Doncaster, crown lifting in Doncaster, tree management, hedge laying in Doncaster, professional tree care in Doncaster, dead-wooding, root flare exposure, soil terravention, domestic tree care Doncaster, tree removal, woodland management, tree felling, hazard assessment, woodchipping Doncaster, tree surveys, stump removal and other tree surgeon services in Doncaster, South Yorkshire. Listed are just a selection of the tasks that are handled by tree surgeons. Doncaster specialists will inform you of their full range of services.
Tree Surgeons Near Doncaster
Also find: Edenthorpe tree surgeons, Kirk Sandall tree surgeons, Balby tree surgeons, Wheatley tree surgeons, Hexthorpe tree surgeons, Bentley tree surgeons, Arksey tree surgeons, Bessacarr tree surgeons, Sprotbrough tree surgeons, Hatfield tree surgeons, Scawsby tree surgeons, Highfields tree surgeons, Hyde Park tree surgeons, Cusworth tree surgeons, Long Sandall tree surgeons and more. Most of these towns and villages are serviced by local tree surgeons. Local homeowners can obtain quotes by going here.
(Created with tree surgeons Doncaster text version four.)
More: Eco-Plugging, Crown Lifting, Tree Planning, Air-Spading, Forestry Management, Stump Removal, Soil Terravention, Tree Dismantling, Arboriculture, Tree Pruning, Tree Topping, Tree Inspections, Hedge Reduction, Wood Chipping, Dead Wooding, Tree Transplanting, Tree Lopping, Tree Cutting, Air-Spading, Crown Lifting, Hedge Cutting, Crown Cleaning, Hedge Reduction, Eco-Plugging, Cable Bracing, Hedge Reduction, Cable Bracing, Crown Cleaning, Hedge Planting, Root Decompaction.
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