Glossary term
What is Conventional notch?
Short answer
A conventional notch is a wedge cut with a flat bottom and a sloped top that guides a tree to fall in a set direction.
Conventional notch, explained for tree service owners
A conventional notch is the classic face cut. First a sloped cut goes down into the trunk, then a flat cut comes in from below to meet it, which removes a wedge. The two cuts usually meet at an angle of about 45 degrees. The tree falls toward the notch and closes it. This notch is simple and widely taught, but when it closes early on a big tree, the fall can become less predictable, so many crews prefer an open-face notch on larger trees. A tree service owner will hear crews name the notch they use on a job, and it shows how much planning goes into each removal. Felling takes proper training.
Related terms
- Open-face notch
An open-face notch is a wide face cut, usually around 70 degrees or more, that stays open longer so the hinge holds as the tree falls.
- ANSI Z133
ANSI Z133 is the American national safety standard for tree care operations, such as climbing, rigging, chipping and working near power…
- Back cut
A back cut is the final cut made on the opposite side of the notch that frees the tree to fall, leaving the hinge intact.
- Chainsaw chaps
Chainsaw chaps are cut-resistant leg guards that clog a saw chain if it touches the leg, giving time to stop.
- Chipper feed rollers
Chipper feed rollers are the powered rollers at the chute that pull branches into the blades at a steady pace.
- Climbing spikes
Climbing spikes are sharp metal points strapped to a climber's boots that bite into the trunk, used mainly on trees being removed.
- Drop zone
A drop zone is the marked area on the ground where cut branches and wood are expected to fall, kept clear of people.
- Experience modification rate
An experience modification rate (EMR) is a number that raises or lowers your workers' comp cost based on your past claims compared with…
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