Tree Surgeons Dorking
We were recently asked to look at a large mature tree in the rear garden of a property in Dorking. The tree had grown beyond what the customer felt comfortable with and its position on a sloping section of the garden made the job more complicated than a straightforward removal.
With limited level ground around the base and several garden features below, we decided that the safest approach was to dismantle the tree gradually from the top down.
Large Tree Removal From a Sloping Garden in Dorking
This particular job was a good example of why the space around a tree can be just as important as the size of the tree itself.
The homeowner contacted us after becoming increasingly concerned about the size of a mature tree towards the rear of their garden. The canopy had spread well beyond the original planting area and large limbs were extending above the lawn, fencing and neighbouring side of the garden.
After visiting the property and talking through the options, we agreed that complete removal was the most practical solution.
One of the main issues was the garden itself. The tree stood on sloping ground, which meant there wasn't a large flat area where heavy branches could safely be dropped.
We therefore planned the job as a controlled sectional dismantle using climbing and lowering techniques, similar to the methods we use on many of our tree surgery projects .
Tree Removal in Dorking
- Location: Dorking, Surrey
- Property: Residential garden
- Main Work: Large tree dismantling and removal
- Site: Sloping rear garden
- Challenge: Uneven ground and restricted drop zone
- Method: Climbing and controlled lowering
- Result: Safer and more open garden
Tree Removal in Dorking – Step by Step
Before starting, we worked out exactly how each section of the tree would be removed and where the material could safely be processed.
Inspecting the Tree and the Surrounding Garden
When we arrived, we walked the site with the customer and took another look at the tree from several different positions.
The first thing we paid attention to was the slope. The ground fell away quite noticeably behind the tree, meaning any heavy timber allowed to land freely could potentially roll or move once it hit the ground.
We also checked nearby fencing, planting, access routes and where the wood chipper and other equipment could be positioned.
Once we had a clear plan, we talked the customer through how the tree would be dismantled.
Preparing a Safe Working Area
Before our climber went up the tree, the ground crew cleared the area beneath the canopy and moved anything that could be damaged.
Because the ground wasn't level, we were particularly careful about where ropes, tools and cut material were positioned.
We established a controlled drop and lowering area and kept the main access route clear so branches could be moved away as the job progressed.
Removing the Outer Canopy First
Our climber started by removing lighter branches from the outer part of the canopy.
This gradually reduced the weight and spread of the tree while creating more room to work around the larger sections.
Rather than allowing branches to fall down the slope, many were lowered towards the flatter side of the garden where the ground crew could control and process them.
This type of controlled tree removal is especially useful where space beneath a tree is limited.
Working Down the Main Crown
With the lighter canopy removed, we could begin reducing the larger structural branches.
At this stage, the sections were heavier and required more preparation before each cut.
The climber and ground team worked together using ropes to control the pieces, keeping them away from the fencing and preventing heavy timber from moving down the slope.
This is one of the main reasons large residential trees are often dismantled rather than felled in one piece.
Removing the Main Stem in Sections
Once the canopy had been removed, we were left with the main stem.
The lower sections were considerably heavier, so we shortened the size of each piece as we worked closer to ground level.
Each section was then moved away from the base of the tree before the next one was cut.
Where a customer wants to retain a tree rather than remove it, we can also provide tree cutting and pruning to reduce size and manage unwanted growth.
Clearing the Site
By the end of the dismantling work, a considerable amount of branch material and timber had been produced.
We processed branches as we went rather than allowing material to build up around the working area.
Once the final sections had been removed, we cleared remaining debris, checked the lawn and paths and left the garden tidy.
For larger projects where tree removal is the first stage of changing an outdoor space, we can also provide garden clearance and groundworks .
Why Site Conditions Matter During Tree Removal
A large open field and a domestic garden require completely different approaches to tree removal.
In gardens around Dorking, trees can sit close to houses, fences, sheds, neighbouring properties and sloping ground.
That means the safest solution is often to dismantle the tree gradually rather than trying to fell it from ground level.
By using climbing equipment and controlled lowering techniques, sections can be removed in a planned way and guided into suitable areas of the garden.
If a tree has become unstable or damaged unexpectedly, we also provide emergency tree work for hazardous trees and fallen branches.
Tree Surgery Services in Dorking
We provide tree surgery for homeowners, landlords and commercial properties throughout Dorking and the surrounding Surrey area.
Tree Removal
Complete removal and controlled dismantling of trees that have become unsafe, unwanted or unsuitable for their location.
Tree Pruning
Pruning and reduction to manage excessive growth, improve clearance and keep established trees at a more suitable size.
Crown Reduction
Careful reduction of tree height and canopy spread while maintaining a balanced and natural appearance.
Stump Grinding
Removal of unwanted stumps below ground level where gardens need to be replanted, turfed or landscaped.
Emergency Tree Work
Assistance with storm-damaged trees, fallen branches and potentially hazardous tree situations.
Hedge Cutting
Hedge trimming, reduction and removal for overgrown boundaries around domestic and commercial properties.
Stump Grinding in Dorking
Once a tree has been removed, the remaining stump can either be left in place or removed depending on how the customer wants to use the area.
Where a garden is going to be turfed, replanted or landscaped, stump grinding can remove the bulk of the stump below ground level.
This leaves the area much easier to work with and avoids having an old stump sitting in the middle of a lawn or planting area.
We can combine stump grinding with tree removal so the whole job can be dealt with by the same team.
A Safer, Brighter and More Usable Garden
Once the tree had been removed, the difference to this Dorking garden was immediately noticeable.
The canopy was no longer dominating the rear of the property, considerably more light was reaching the garden and the homeowner no longer had to worry about the large limbs above the sloping section of ground.
Despite the awkward position of the tree, the controlled dismantling method allowed us to complete the work without damaging the surrounding fencing or garden features.
After the final clean-up, we walked through the finished work with the customer before packing away the equipment.
Tree Surgeons Covering Dorking & Surrounding Areas
Apps Outdoor Services are based near Horley and regularly work throughout East Surrey, including Dorking and the surrounding villages.
We undertake everything from smaller pruning jobs to large tree dismantling, stump grinding, hedge work and garden clearance.
If you aren't sure whether a tree needs reducing, pruning or removing completely, we're happy to look at the situation and explain the options.
Have a Tree You're Concerned About?
You may have a tree that's become too large, branches overhanging a building, a damaged limb or simply a tree that no longer suits the space.
Get in touch and tell us what's happening. We can discuss the work with you, arrange a visit if required and provide a free, no-obligation quotation.
Request A Free QuoteLooking for Tree Surgeons in Dorking?
Whether you need a tree removed, reduced, pruned or an old stump ground out, contact Apps Outdoor Services for professional tree surgery in Dorking and the surrounding Surrey area.
