Tree Removal Challenges: When the Crane Cancels
Tree removal is a complex and often dangerous job that requires careful planning, specialized equipment, and experienced professionals. While every tree removal job presents its unique challenges, some jobs are more memorable than others – especially when unexpected issues arise.
Recently, our team was tasked with a big tree removal job in Orlando, Florida. The job site was located on Kilgore Road and involved the removal of several large oak and palm trees. While we were prepared for the size and scope of the job, we encountered an unexpected challenge that forced us to adapt and overcome.
The Job
We arrived on site on January 18th, 2025, ready to tackle the tree removal project. Our team was equipped with all the necessary tools and safety gear, and we had a crane scheduled to assist with the removal of the largest trees.
The first few tree removals went smoothly. We were able to fall the trees without incident safely, and we were making good progress. However, as we approached the final live oak tree, we encountered a significant challenge.
The Challenge
The live oak tree was massive, with a sprawling canopy that extended over a nearby horse stable. The tree’s branches were intertwined with the stable’s roof, making it impossible to fall the tree without risking damage to the structure.
We had planned to use the crane to lift and remove the tree in sections, but we received a call from the crane company informing us that they had to cancel at the last minute. This left us in a difficult situation, as we were now faced with removing a massive tree without the assistance of a crane.
The Solution
Our team huddled together to discuss our options. We knew that we couldn’t simply fall the tree, as this would almost certainly damage the horse stable. We also knew that we couldn’t leave the tree standing, as it posed a safety hazard.
After careful consideration, we decided to rig the tree up strategically and pull it over carefully, using ropes and pulleys to control its descent. This was a delicate and time-consuming process, as we had to ensure that the tree didn’t damage the stable roof or any other nearby structures.
The Outcome
Despite the unexpected setback, our team was able to successfully remove the live oak tree without causing any damage to the horse stable. The job took us 10 hours to complete, which was significantly longer than we had anticipated. However, we were proud of our ability to adapt and overcome the challenges we faced.
Lessons Learned
This experience taught us several valuable lessons about the importance of flexibility and problem-solving in the tree removal industry.
- Always have a backup plan: Things don’t always go according to plan, so it’s important to have a backup plan in place. In this case, we were fortunate that we were able to come up with a solution on the fly. However, it’s always best to have a backup plan in place before you start a job.
- Communication is key: When unexpected issues arise, it’s important to communicate with your team and your client. In this case, we kept our client informed of the situation and worked together to find a solution.
- Safety first: No matter what challenges you face, safety should always be your top priority. In this case, we took extra precautions to ensure that the tree removal was done safely and without incident.
Conclusion
Tree removal is a challenging but rewarding job. While unexpected challenges can arise, it’s important to remain flexible, communicate effectively, and prioritize safety. By following these principles, you can ensure that your tree removal jobs are completed successfully, no matter what obstacles you encounter.