Up on the valley sides above Ebbw Vale, gardens catch the wind and the trees that survive there grow tough and often lopsided. Low branches can end up pressing on terrace roofs, fence lines and steep steps, and crown lifting is a practical way to clear them. We aim for a tidy result.
We take away the lowest limbs, keep the shape natural and cut back to the branch collar so the tree can heal. Where wind is a worry, we think carefully about what to leave. A lighter lift is often the better choice up here.
Many homes in Ebbw Vale stand in rows along the hillside, with long thin gardens running up or down the slope. A tree at the top of such a garden can overhang several neighbours, and one at the bottom may lean towards the road. Lifting the crown tidies those overhangs without taking the tree out. Hilltop gardens can have little shelter, so the trees that survive are usually sturdy, and we do not want to weaken them by taking too much.
Access is often the hard part. Narrow lanes, steps and retaining walls mean branches usually have to be cut into short sections and lowered by hand or rope. We plan that before starting so nothing damages walls, fences or the planting your neighbours care about. We also keep in mind the lane or road, because branches swinging in the wind will reach further than they do on a still day.
Trees on hilltop sites take more wind than those in sheltered gardens. If too much is taken from one side, the tree may catch the wind unevenly, so we do not strip the lower canopy more than we need. A modest lift, spread around the crown, usually gives you the clearance without upsetting the balance. Ebbw Vale's exposed slopes mean we also take care to cut in dry, still conditions where possible, and we will rearrange if the weather is unsafe.
We also look for dead wood, tight forks and signs of rubbing while we are up there. If we spot something that concerns us, we will point it out so you can decide what to do. Crown lifting is not a cure for an unsafe tree, and we will say if one needs different work. A mature tree on a windy site tells you a lot about what it has put up with, and we read those signs before choosing which branches to take.
Wooded slopes around Ebbw Vale mean some trees may be protected, so we check for a tree preservation order or other restriction before cutting. We can guide you through asking the council where needed. We also work in Beaufort, Cwm, Brynmawr and Tredegar for crown lifting. If woodland above your garden is not yours, we will discuss with you who to speak to before any work takes place.
We work across South Wales. Pick your town to see how crown lifting works locally.
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Read the guide →Yes, although it takes more planning. We think about footing, where cut branches will go and how to protect walls and fences below. Steep gardens are common in the valleys, so we are used to working with them.
Done lightly and evenly, it should not. Trouble comes when too much is removed, or all from one side. We keep the lift modest and balanced, and we will advise against cutting more than the tree can take.
It is courteous, especially on terraced streets where branches overhang several gardens and we may need to work from or over a neighbouring plot. A quick word beforehand avoids misunderstandings and helps us get access safely. Everything is easier when people know in advance.
Tell us what needs doing and where. We will come back to you, or call 07766 919630 if it is urgent.