December 2015: Tree Thinning: Tip #1

Do you need to find the best tree thinning service in the Tri-Cities? We are it. However, if you’re looking to tackle the job yourself, we are happy to help by providing whatever information we can.

Tip of the Day: How to Sharpen Hedge Shears

Before sharpening hedge shears, check the pivot nut. The nut should be snug with no play. If the shears still cut poorly, look down each blade to make sure it’s not bent. If a blade is slightly bent, loosen the pivot nut and separate the blades. To straighten the blade, put it in a vise, slip on some thick leather gloves and tweak it until it’s straight.

Next, file the edge to expose clean metal. Examine the factory edge. Hold the file with both hands and mimic the direction of the bevel. Now move the file in one broad stroke away from you along the entire cutting angle. Don’t use small, jerky strokes or you’ll lose the factory edge. As you work, you can see the clean metal path left by the file. Adjust your angle as needed to file the entire edge evenly. Repeat this motion several times until you expose clean metal over the whole edge. Usually it’ll take only about 10 strokes. Do the same with the other blade.

Finally, sand the backside of the blade. Place a sheet of 300-grit wet/dry sandpaper on a smooth, flat piece of plywood. You’ll be able to feel the burrs (be careful, they’re sharp) on the back side of each blade. To remove them, lightly sand the backside of the blade. Keep the blade flat and move it in a circular motion. After making several circles, pick up the blade and gently feel the edge. When the burrs are gone, assemble the blades and lightly oil the moving parts with Three-In-One oil.

If you’re looking to do all of your own tree thinning, we will be your biggest cheerleaders. If you ever need advice, a quick tip, or just have a quick question, please call us anyways. We will be happy to help and assist any way we can. If there is ever a job that gets to be a little too big, please give us a chance to earn your business. We are the best tree thinning service in the Tri-Cities.

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