What is a Barber Chair?
A barber chair occurs when a tree being felled delaminates vertically before the hinge is cut thin enough to bend. The term refers to the sliding action of old-style barber chairs that positioned patrons head down and feet up, which allowed the barber to more easily shave with a straight razor.
Causes of Barber Chair
The general rule is the easier it is to split a tree with an axe, the more likely it is to barber chair. Trees with straight trunks and high canopies (no knots or branches low) are particularly prone. Forward leaners are most likely to barber chair. If it’s not leaning, holding wood keeps the tree from settling on your saw.
Preventions and Safety Measures
How to Cut a Tree to Prevent a Barber Chair:
- Strap the tree to a sturdy support like a fence post to secure it.
- Wrap a ratchet strap tightly around the tree trunk.
Understanding the Risks:
- Big hollow trees can barber chair, being extremely dangerous even with little lean.
- To prevent blowout, use a 2-inch wide heavy-duty nylon or polyester strap with a 1000-pound breaking strength.
- It’s crucial to understand what causes barber chairs and how to avoid and escape them.
Cutting Technique and Escape Planning:
- Cut a clear escape path at a 45-degree angle away from the falling direction.
- Have multiple paths, including your main one, but never straight back as that has the highest barber chair risk.
- For forward leaners, cut off the corner of the hinge wood so the tree swings towards the uncut part.
Species to Avoid
- Avoid alders, ash, white pines, and tulip poplars, which are prone to barber chairs.
- Species that split easily with an axe can barber chair.
Professional Assistance
For handling dangerous trees, it’s best to let professionals take care of the task. Contact for a free assessment and quote to safely cut barber chair risks.