DEWALT 20V MAX XR Chainsaw Kit, 5-Ah Battery, 12-Inch (DCCS620P1)
About this item
Low kick back 12" Oregon Bar and chain: for construction and outdoor cutting applications
HIGH EFFICIENCY BRUSHLESS MOTOR: maximizes run time and motor life
Tool free chain tensioning and Bar tightening knob: for proper Bar clamping force
Compact and lightweight design: Only 8.8 lbs. for maximum user control and comfort
Part of the 20V max system of tools
Chain Speed : 25.2 feet/second
Six steps to felling a tree correctly
When felling trees, it is essential to use proper work techniques, not only to create a safe working environment, but also to increase work efficiency.
1. Preliminary planning
When it comes to felling trees with a chainsaw, preparation is key. By planning the logging and the forestry equipment you are going to bring, not only are you making the workday safer, but you are also making post-logging work much easier. First, ask yourself if there are any major obstacles in the area, such as power lines, roads, or buildings. Distribute warning signs if you know that there is a road through the forest area or that there are many people passing through that area on a daily basis.
2. Check the direction of fall
Next, determine the direction of the fall by carefully studying the tree. What do the branches look like and how do they grow? Also take into account the direction of the wind. If you are unclear about the tree's natural fall direction, stay away from it and check it with a plumb line (see the data chart for information). Clear the area around the tree's intended fall direction. Also clear a 45-degree zone behind the tree in both directions to create an escape route.
3. Prune the trunk
When you've cleared the area, post your warning signs in the direction of the tree's fall and your chosen escape route. You must check that you have enough fuel in your tank for the task ahead. Then it will be time to prune the trunk to get rid of all the large and small branches that can get in the way when making the felling cut. The safest way to prune is to do it with a pull chain (under the bar) from the top down.
4. Decide on the cutting technique
Once the trunk has been pruned to shoulder height, it is time to make the felling cut. When doing so, it is important to remember two things: the hinge must be of uniform thickness with the proper dimensions and the knockdown wedge or ripper bar must be inserted before the tree can engage the bar. The cutting technique to use will depend on the size of the tree and the slope, as well as the size of the chainsaw. Here we have compiled information about the different techniques, so that you can find for yourself the method that best suits your conditions. / insert link to proper passage in "working with chainsaws" /
5. Check the tree for diseases
If you notice that the wood is discolored and soft or if the lower part of the trunk looks swollen or diseased, you should be very careful. This indicates that the tree is rotten and the fibers of the wood are weakened. If this happens, log in the direction of the tree's natural fall and use a winch if you are unsure. Rot normally decreases the higher up the tree, so one option would be to knock it down leaving a taller than normal stump.
6. Choose the tool
You can choose from several felling tools when felling a tree. The size of the tree determines the type of forestry equipment needed. For smaller trees, felling tools are not usually necessary. The manual force is sufficient, perhaps with the help of a long bar. The knockdown wedge offers greater knockdown force than the different types of ripper bars. In extreme cases, you can use a rope and a winch, which are the safest and most powerful way to fell a tree. Take a look at the data box to learn more about the different tools available.
How to calculate tree height
Hold a stick with your arm extended straight in front of you so that the length of the stick equals the distance between your eye and your hand; Next, hold the stick upright so that a right triangle forms between the eye, the hand, and the top of the stick.
Aim at the tree and stand at a distance where the tree appears as tall as the length of the stick. If the tree is leaning, you will get more accurate results if you measure from the side, so the tree is not leaning towards you or the other way.
The distance between where you are and the tree will be equal to its height.
How to measure the slope of a tree with a plumb bob
Aim the plumb bob toward the top of the tree trunk.
Measure the distance from the point of impact of the plumb bob to the center of the trunk.
Felling tools
The standing stripper bar is suitable for thinning small trees. Insert the tool before completing the felling cut and support your full weight on the lever arm. The ripper bar is usually telescopic and can be carried in a tool belt holster.
The ripper bar is used on relatively small trees. To maximize lifting force, insert the tool (before completing the felling cut) into the center of the felling cut as far back as possible. Do the lift with your legs and keep your back straight.
The impact bar is used in the same way as the ripper bar, although it can also be used as a striking tool when using demolition wedges.
Falling wedges are ideal for medium to large trees. They are inserted before completing the felling cut and struck with an ax or impact bar. Always use plastic or aluminum wedges to avoid the risk of damaging the chain if you accidentally cut them.
The winch is used in situations where maximum strength and safety are required. To achieve maximum effect, the cable is placed as high as possible in the tree.
WHOLESUN 3000PSI Electric Pressure Washer 2.4GPM Power Washer 1600W High Pressure Cleaner Machine with 4 Nozzles Foam Cannon,Best for Cleaning Homes, Cars, Driveways, Patios (Blue)
About this item
HIGH PRESSURE FOAMER CANNON: As a high pressure foamer, the polymer corrosion-resistant detergent bottle can loose tough stuff or remove deep stains.
HIGH PRESSURE CLEANER: Powerful 1600-Watt motor generates up to 3000 PSI/2.4 GPM.Perfect for siding, decks, cement, pavement, pools, outdoor furniture, cars, trucks, RVs, ATVs and more.
LEAKPROOF CONNECTIONS: Professional metal garden hose connector and 22mm metal water outlet. Comes with a 20ft high-pressure hose (metal connection) to avoid annoying water leakage.
TOTAL STOP SYSTEM: Power Pressure Washer Features Safety Automatic Total Stop System (TSS), which automatically shuts off the pump when trigger is not engaged to save energy and prolong pump life. We provide 33 ft power cord with inline GFCI for use on all exterior outlets.
CUSTOMER SUPPORT: We provide a 2 year warranty, if you have any problems with your high pressure cleaner, you can contact us at any time. If you are not satisfied, you can get a full refund within 30 days! !
How to remove blood stains from concrete surfaces
If you have an accident that results in injury, you may need to be prepared to remove blood stains from surfaces around your home. If allowed to sit, blood can easily cause unsightly marks on a variety of surfaces, from furniture to carpets, clothing, and more. If you accidentally end up with a blood stain on a concrete surface, acting quickly is one of the best ways to ensure that all traces can be removed properly. Read on for a short guide on how to do this.
Step 1: clean up fresh blood
If you can target the affected area immediately after the accident, the first thing to do is clean up any excess blood that may be accumulating on the ground. Use a clean cloth to rub it in and avoid rubbing as this could spread the stain. Continue until you have removed all excess liquid from the soil. Wear gloves while doing this and be very careful not to spread the blood and make the stain worse. Gloves are also important for your own safety, as someone else's blood may be contaminated and capable of spreading disease.
Step 2 - Scrub the dry areas
Use a stiff-bristled brush to scrub the bloody patch. The objective is to get the dry particles in the concrete to loosen and peel off. Continue to go over the stain for about 10 minutes or until the blood has completely come off.
Step 3: sweep up the debris
If all or some dried blood has come out, use a broom and dustpan to sweep it up. This will generally work well if the spill is older and has had a chance to dry completely on the concrete surface. However, it can be tricky if the accident just happened. Dispose of waste in a safe and healthy manner, following the legal guidelines regarding hazardous waste disposal in your area.
Step 4: apply a detergent mixture
In a small bowl, mix one part liquid dish detergent with three parts water and stir until the contents are completely combined. Pour a small amount of the solution onto the stained area and then continue scrubbing vigorously with the stiff bristle brush. See if the stain begins to appear or if you will need a stronger method. Wipe up the liquid with a clean cloth or paper towels if successful.
Step 5: treat with hydrogen peroxide
If the stain still persists after you've completed all of the above steps, pour a small amount of hydrogen peroxide on the area. Let it sit for about 15 minutes so it begins to break down the blood and then scrub it once more with the stiff bristle brush. Wipe off the peroxide with another clean cloth or paper towel. Re-examine the stain; if it's still there, treat it with another dollop of hydrogen peroxide and rub until it comes off.
How to remove dry cement
Cement is one of the most used materials in construction and home repair. Learn how to clean dry cement from tiles, how to remove cement from metal and clothing with these tips.
Cement is a somewhat complicated material to handle, especially if we are doing a project on our own at home. The problem with working with cement is that it can fall on unwanted surfaces, and if it dries it is difficult to remove. But don't worry, we have the best solutions and techniques on how to remove dry cement from your floors and even your clothes. Discover them below!
How to remove dry cement from tiles
You made repairs at home and are wondering how to remove cement residue from the floor? We are going to teach you how to clean dry cement on tiles step by step: Buy a cement remover product at a hardware store. The most common is the so-called RC-10.
Wear protective gloves and goggles when working with these types of chemical materials
Apply the product on the cement stains and let it act for 5 minutes.
Scrub the tiles with a brush to remove the now thinned cement.
Dry the area with a cotton cloth.
Repeat the process if necessary, until all the dry cement stains have been removed from your ceramic floor.
Lastly, clean the floor with a cloth dampened in clean water.
How to remove cement from metal
For metal surfaces, such as aluminum windows or doors, the cement removal process is similar.
If there are coarse cement residues on the metal, try removing them with a putty knife. Then use the cement remover liquid, let it work and wipe with a clean cloth
How to clean contact cement from clothing
Now that you know how to clean cement-stained ceramic floors, it's time you learned how to remove cement from clothing. Pay attention to these tips:
How to get cement out of clothes:
If you stained your clothes with dry cement powder, don't get it wet!
Using a stiff bristle brush, brush the garment on both sides to remove as much of the cement dust as possible.
Wash the garment in the washing machine normally, but do not mix it with other clothes.
In the case of wet cement stains, with a blunt knife or spatula, remove the cement from the fabric, and apply a few drops of cement remover to the fabric to remove the rest of the cement.
Be careful when using these chemicals because they can damage fabrics. Try the product on an inconspicuous area of the garment first.
Wash the garment as usual.
Key steps:
When working with cement, wear old clothes that you don't mind getting dirty. You will save yourself trouble.
Cover all the surfaces in the areas where you use cement with a cloth or sheet, or prepare the cement outside your house.
If you do get stained with cement, act fast to remove the stains effectively.
Westinghouse Outdoor Power Equipment Electric Pressure Washer 1500 MAX PSI 1.5 GPM with Anti-Tipping Technology, ePX2000, Foam Cannon with Adjustable Spray
About this item
1500 max PSI of deep-cleaning water pressure and up to 1.5 GPM water flow - Adjustable spray wand with easy-coil nylon-braided 15' hose
Super compact and lightweight at 14” tall and 15 lb. for convenient storage and portability - Four Quick-Lock wheels with 360° steering design and low center of gravity engineered for anti-tipping design
Foaming soap cannon with 10 oz (300 mL) detachable bottle to add detergents/chemicals for versatile cleaning power on decks, driveways, garage floors, stairs, fencing, patio furniture, and vehicles
Pump automatically stops when trigger is not engaged to conserve energy, prolong pump life, and added safety
Backed by 3-Year Limited Manufacturer Service, Labor, and Parts Coverage
CLEANING CONCRETE SURFACES
Concrete stained surfaces can be cleaned, but to guarantee results you need to know the type of cleaning and the appropriate procedure in each case. To do this, nothing better than reading this article and others that will follow, as they contain everything there is to know on the subject.
Cleaning should be done in a way that removes dirt without neglecting the concrete. The structure and color of the cleaned surfaces must not differ from the untreated surfaces. In principle, three cleaning methods can be used: 1
cleaning by washing (softening of the dirt and its elimination with water);
dissolution cleaning (dissolution, absorption).
Sometimes all three methods are combined or used one after the other.
Stains on concrete surfaces
Soot, dust, sand, rubber particles, greasy materials, etc. are deposited on concrete surfaces. Lime efflorescence is also frequently added to newly finished concrete elements, rust stains, microorganisms, plants, as well as products of the reaction of cement paste with compounds in the air.
Initially, these deposits usually only damage the appearance of concrete elements, but do not directly reduce the functional capacity or durability of the same. Even certain layers of dirt are transformed into protective layers (patina). However, these crusts can also contain contaminating materials that damage the materials they cover. The faster a stain is removed, the greater the chances of success. Old stains can spread on the surface or penetrate deeply and are often solidly bound to the hardened cement paste, with which they sometimes react, with effects that make cleaning more difficult. On the other hand, it sometimes happens that mixtures are formed with the stains that were already in the concrete before,
Criteria for choosing cleaning methods
In general, the procedure should be chosen that allows the desired effect to be obtained by the least aggressive means, and that does not attack, or that attacks very little, the hardened cement paste. In addition, care must be taken that other elements that are in the vicinity and are made of wood, glass, aluminum or plastic material, as well as the gasket materials, can be protected if they are at risk of being attacked. It goes without saying that the people doing the cleaning should always be out of danger, as well as other people, plants or animals in the immediate environment. The evacuation of water, sand, dust, etc., coming from cleaning, must be carried out in accordance with the provisions of the legislation. Before using a procedure to solve a cleaning problem for the first time, it will be necessary to test in an inconspicuous place. In the case of a wet test, the effectiveness of the procedure cannot be judged until at least one week later.
Procedures based on the use of a combination of solvents or chemicals, or even both, are well known as a way to remove many types of stains on concrete surfaces. This will be covered in the next issue.
The following list shows different cleaning procedures in order of increasing efficiency and, for unidentified stains, it is advisable to use the first one that achieves the desired effect.
Dry rubbing with a stiff brush
Surface wetting, dry rubbing with a hard brush, low pressure water jet washing
Cleaning with a high pressure water jet or steam
Cleaning chemicals (for example, acids or bases)
Sandblasting or other abrasive
Torch cleaning
At least the last two of these procedures erode the concrete to a greater or lesser extent, generally requiring a coating to be applied immediately or other measures to be taken. Some of the main non-chemical procedures for cleaning concrete surfaces are listed in Table 1.
For delicate concrete surfaces it is advisable to use procedures whose degree of aggressiveness increases more slowly:
Water with a soft brush
Mild soapy water
Strong soapy water
Stronger soapy water and ammonia
Stronger soapy water and vinegar
If that does not work, it will be necessary to resort to stronger products.
Wet cleaning
Cleaning with water is one of the procedures that mistreat concrete the least. It is effective only when the stains are only on the concrete surface and have been fixed there by water-soluble compounds, such as gypsum (CaSo4.2 H2O). (Gypsum results from the reaction of calcium hydroxide [Ca (OH) 2] coming out of the water contained in the pores of concrete, with the sulfur dioxide [SO2] contained in the air.) Here, different degrees of cleaning are also possible:
Cold water cleaning without pressure
Cleaning with cold water under pressure
Pressureless hot water cleaning
Cleaning with very hot water (steam)
For cleaning with water under pressure, flat nozzles and special discharge systems are commercially available.5 High pressure water jets can also be used to remove thicker or thin layers of concrete. The cleaning effect of the different procedures can be improved by the addition of soap or other surfactants (surface agents), particularly for the removal of greasy surface stains. When water is not enough to remove softened staining matter, brushing is often indicated.
Mechanical and thermal cleaning procedures
There are numerous variants of mechanical cleaning procedures. All cause a more or less great loss of matter, which damages the surface, and it is the case that it remains in such a way that it suffers new stains. Generally used: 2.6
Cleaning by hand with
brush or broom
cellular glass
water resistant sandpaper
Mechanical cleaning with
circular brush
strawberries
corundum discs
Spray cleaning with
sand
wet sand
grain
jet of water under pressure
jet of water under pressure combined with sand
thermal cleaning
blowing with special nozzle
Many small stains can be removed by simply scrubbing with a stiff non-metallic brush, fine pumice stone, or cellular glass. This type of rubbing can also serve as an auxiliary means for cleaning by the wet method. If done properly, this rubbing does not damage the concrete surface at all. However, do not use mechanical brushes (steel or brass), because fine metal particles can cause color changes.
Sand blasting 2, 3, 7 lends itself to the removal of numerous impurities that have not penetrated deeply into the hardened cement paste. This abrasive treatment pulverizes and removes dirt particles as well as some of the surface layer. Since there are many abrasives available (blast furnace slag, silicon carbide, quartz sand, walnut shells, etc.), you can choose the blasting method that damages the substrate as little as possible. The blasting, however, is little appreciated as a cleaning procedure because, despite all the precautions, the loss of material is inevitable, the surfaces become rough and, therefore, more exposed to the influence of the environment. Also, this procedure generates a lot of dust and noise,
Wet blasting is less aggressive than dry blasting.2, 3, 7 Although some of the same abrasives are used as for dry blasting, the surface stresses are lower, and less dust is produced. With thermal cleaning, using a special 2.6 torch with an oxyacetylene flame, the concrete surface is subjected to such stress that the upper area disintegrates and partially separates. Rubber particles, as well as oil stains and other organic compounds are well removed as they burn.
Chemical cleaning procedures in general
The specialized literature informs us of a great variety of chemical products that allow removing certain stains from the concrete surface. We can add products that exist in the market and that have been perfected for certain applications.
This variety can have its risks, and requires great prudence on the part of users, as well as protection of the people who apply them; improper use can cause irreversible damage. To avoid this, it is necessary to call specialists, or inquire well in specialized publications. Inexperienced employees must be carefully updated on their new assignment.
The effect produced by chemicals on stains can be very diverse. In general, acids chemically react similarly with the surface of concrete. Often times, alkaline products and surfactants do not dissolve stains but emulsify them, that is, they give them a shape that allows them to be washed away.6
For many uses of chemicals, the procedure is almost always the same: the surface is carefully moistened so that the chemicals applied quickly by spray or brush do not penetrate too deeply. It is immediately rinsed with plenty of water, after a reaction time that should be as short as possible. It may be necessary to repeat these operations several times.
Acidic cleaning products
En el momento de utilizar ácidos, es particularmente importante el humedecimiento previo del concreto, ya que la mayor parte de los ácidos reaccionan con la pasta de cemento endurecido. Por la misma razón, una vez que ha terminado la limpieza, es necesario enjuagar hasta que el agua de lavado sea casi neutra. Las pruebas de neutralización con atomizador de las soluciones alcalinas no son aconsejables, pues es imposible conseguir una dosificación precisa.3
The most frequently used acids are the following: muriatic acid, phosphoric acid, sulfuric acid, oxalic acid, acetic acid and formic acid.7 If necessary, it must be taken into account that muriatic acid and sulfuric acid cause the formation of ions of chloride or sulfate, which promote corrosion of concrete. For safety reasons, the use of hydrofluoric acid should not be used.3 Acids generally help to eliminate efflorescence. It is advisable to use dilute muriatic acid. The use of phosphoric or formic acid at 15 percent is also possible. The acid is sprayed on the previously moistened support, or spread regularly with a sponge or brush. After three to five minutes (end of foaming), rinsed thoroughly and eventually brushed with a stiff brush. In the case of strong efflorescence, it may be necessary to repeat this treatment.3 Working with acids involves several disadvantages. For example, the concrete surface becomes rough and of a darker tint, even if chemicals are used sparingly. Acid that has penetrated the concrete and is not washed off will eventually dissolve the ferruginous minerals, which can cause brown spots on the concrete surface. even if chemicals are used sparingly. Acid that has penetrated the concrete and is not washed off will eventually dissolve the ferruginous minerals, which can cause brown spots on the concrete surface. even if chemicals are used sparingly. Acid that has penetrated the concrete and is not washed off will eventually dissolve the ferruginous minerals, which can cause brown spots on the concrete surface.
Construction elements that cannot stand coming into contact with acid must be protected.
Alkaline cleaning products
Alkaline cleaning products - mainly sodium and potassium hydroxide - have the advantage over acidic products that they do not react, or react very slowly, with the compounds of the hardened paste. This advantage is negated by the fact that such products attack glass and aluminum, and that they force users to wear protective glasses and clothing. It is also necessary to collect and neutralize the wash water.
Alkalis are especially suitable for removing oil or greasy stains, since they saponify fats and neutralize fatty acids. The reaction products can be removed by rinsing with water.
Protection of people and the environment
It has been mentioned several times in the course of this article that man runs risks when using chemicals. Employees, above all, have only some knowledge of chemistry and should not handle chemicals unless they have received sufficient instruction and are adequately protected. And, as necessary, the environment must also be protected against the action of chemicals.
Sun Joe SPX3000 2030 Max PSI 1.76 GPM 14.5-Amp Electric High Pressure Washer, Cleans Cars/Fences/Patios
Brand Sun Joe Power Source Corded-electric Color Cleans Cars/Fences/Patios Item Dimensions LxWxH 15.6 x 13.5 x 33.9 inches Maximum Pressure 1450 Pound per Square Inch Item Weight 31 Pounds Hose Length 20 Feet
About this item
Power Source Type: Corded-Electric
HOW TO CLEAN CONCRETE SURFACES OF GREASE, OIL AND DIRT
In Concrete Surface Preparation - Part I , we discussed the detection, removal, and repair of unsound concrete. The next step is to remove the contaminants from the concrete. However, we cannot proceed directly to sandblasting, for the same reasons that steel sandblasting does not start immediately. Dirt, dust, and other loose contaminants will inhibit build-up and can be removed by first sweeping, vacuuming, blowing with air, or spraying with water.
Hydrophobic materials, such as oil, grease, and stripping lubricants also inhibit adhesion and must be removed. It's tempting to remove them by sandblasting the contaminated layer, but that can exacerbate the problem by spreading contaminants over previously uncontaminated areas. Recommended methods of removal are scrubbing with a brush, water and detergent, steam cleaning, and low pressure washing (less than 5000 psi) . Some chemical cleaning methods are appropriate, but solvent cleaning is not. Unlike steel, concrete has pores and cracks that solvents can enter, which inhibits adhesion formation.
A detailed discussion of acceptable methods for surface cleaning can be found in SSPC SP 13 / NACE No. 6 - Concrete Surface Preparation.
Efflorescence
Efflorescence is a powdery, crystalline deposit that slowly forms as moisture seeps soluble salts to the concrete surface.
Efflorescence is an aesthetic problem, not a structural one, but must be addressed when the concrete surface serves as a cover. If not done, efflorescence will cause unsightly stains under sealers and decorative finishes.
Being a soluble salt, efflorescence can be removed by scrubbing with a brush and water, power washing, or with a light blast of abrasive steam . However, unless the underlying moisture problem is resolved, the efflorescence will return.
Humidity problems
If the relative humidity of the air is less than that of the cured concrete slab, the moisture will be drawn from under the slab to the surface, causing efflorescence, mold, and emulsion of flooring adhesives. Where sealants and other waterproof coatings block vapor flow, delaminations and blistering can occur. The solution is to install a vapor barrier under the slab.
There are two common tests for the relative humidity of concrete:
Plastic sheeting test. A plastic sheet is glued to the concrete surface and left for 16 hours or more, then removed and inspected for condensation. See ASTM D4263
Calcium chloride test. A plate with calcium chloride is weighed, placed on the concrete surface, and sealed under a dome. About sixty or seventy-two hours later, the plate is weighed again. The increased weight of the sample indicates the amount of moisture absorbed, which is used to calculate the moisture vapor emission rate (MVER).
Grout
Grout is a weak, friable layer of cement and fine aggregate materials carried to the surface by water exiting the concrete. It is the result of excess water in the mix or excess water that has occurred during curing, and is always present to some degree in new concrete.If grout is not removed, repairs, layers and coatings, because the friable layer has poor material strength. However, cement grout is tough enough to warrant removal by abrasive blasting, sandblasting, grinding, high pressure water blasting, or acid washing.
Grout appears when the concrete surface is scraped with a sharp object, leaving a dusty residue.
Curing compounds are applied during the curing process to seal the concrete and retain water for cement hydration. By sealing the pores in concrete, curing compounds inhibit the adhesion of mortars and coatings. Adhesive layers and coatings above present the same problem. The solution is to remove the concrete layer below the penetration level of the compound by abrasive blasting, shot blasting, high pressure water blasting, or by mechanical means.
With healthy, contaminant-free concrete, all that's left is to properly scrape the surface, but to what extent? In Part III of our series on Concrete Surface Preparation, we will discuss the specifications of structures and blasters to agree on the number of profiles needed, and examine the various concrete surface preparation methods, their advantages and disadvantages, and their applications.
Sun Joe SBJ597E-SJB 6-Amp 155 MPH Electric Leaf Blower, Blue
About this item
VERSATILE: Clean sweeping patios, driveways, decks and garages
POWERFUL: 6-amp motor creates up to 155 mph air speed (max)
NO LOAD SPEED: 12,000/13,500 RPM
LIGHTWEIGHT: Only weighs 3.9 lbs!
Rated Voltage 120 V ~ 60 Hz
How to dispose of fall leaves
In many places, fall is the time of year that is characterized by falling leaves from trees and other vegetation. Although the leaves will end up decomposing if you leave them on the ground, you can speed up the process. You can also collect and recycle them or throw them away. No matter what you decide to do with them, making a plan will make fall cleaning easier.
Method 1 Plan ahead
1 Build growing beds near deciduous trees. Make grow beds with plants that love natural mulch near the shedding trees in your yard. When there are leaves on the ground, run the mower over them once. Then, rake them up and carry them to the beds. [1]
For the beds, consider including shrubs, garlic, roses, and young perennials. [2]
2 Decide if you need to collect the leaves. It is natural that there is a layer of leaves of several centimeters and this can even host an ecosystem. Wildlife such as salamanders, turtles, squirrels, and other species survive in such small habitat. [3] The layer of fallen leaves (litter) also provides shelter for beneficial insects and worms during winter. However, if thick layers of leaves are suffocating your lawn, you should shred them if you are not collecting them. [4] Consider collecting the leaves if they cover more than a third of the garden and you can't see the surface of the blade of grass. [5]
It may be necessary to collect them if you belong to a homeowners association that has specific requirements about fall cleaning.
If you decide to collect them, don't try to complete an entire season's leaf collection in one day. Plan to clean the leaves for several days during the fall.[6]
3 Rake the pine needles first. You should separate the fallen foliage of the pine tree from the fallen leaves of the deciduous trees. Pine needles are acidic, and some plants love acidic soil and others don't. Therefore, it is beneficial to separate the pine needles to use as a separate mulch. [7]
Rake them as soon as you notice them on the ground, since they tend to fall before the leaves.
Put them in garbage bags and store them in a dry place. Use them when you need acid mulch.
4 Decide whether you want to rake the wet or dry leaves. Wet leaves will make a more stable pile, but they are also more difficult to rake. [8] Choose dry leaves if you want to use a leaf vacuum, as wet leaves will clog the vacuum. [9] Don't rake damp leaves if you have any allergies, as the mold and mildew they contain can cause sinus discomfort.
5 Pick up the branches. You can do it before or during the cleaning of sheets. Collect the branches from your garden and place them aside in a pile. Consider keeping the pile there as a refuge for birds, squirrels, and other wildlife. You can also reserve the branches to use as firewood. [10]
If you want to move the pile of branches to another part of the garden, use a wheelbarrow or a yard waste container.
Method 2 Collect the leaves
1 Rake the leaves. Raking is ideal if you have a small lawn or garden. [11] Use a quality rake , preferably with a soft grip. Rakes larger than 36 inches (90 cm) require more force, so choose one with a standard 24 inches (60 cm) width. You can opt for an ergonomic rake with a curved handle.[12]Do not go back. Work across the lawn in a zigzag. [13]
With each line you rake, move the leaves to the area where there are leaves that you have not yet raked. Every time you create a leaf ridge, push it a few feet into the unraked area. Repeat until the pile is 2 feet (60 cm) high or becomes difficult to move.
You can buy ergonomic handles separately and attach them to your rakes by screwing them on. If you do it with two rakes, you can rake the leaves with both arms and without bending over. [14]
2 Transfer the leaves with a tarp or bag. Use a sheet, tarp, or tablecloth to carry large piles of leaves. Place the four corners of the canvas and move the pile of leaves by dragging the canvas. You can use this method in conjunction with or as a replacement for leaf bags.
A 2.4 x 2.4 m (8 x 8 ft) tarp is ideal for this purpose.
You can buy bags of seasonal leaves like the large pumpkin lantern face bags to decorate the garden while getting the leaves out of the way.
3 Trim grass and leaves. This is a good option if you have a large lawn. Use the mower with a grass catcher to collect the cut leaves. [16] Raise the mower deck to the second highest position before mowing.[17]
If the leaves are wet, use the mower's side discharge mode for the first pass to loosen and lift the leaves. Then switch to shredding or bagging mode and run the pruner over the leaves again.
4 Use a blower or leaf vacuum. Consider using a leaf blower, especially if you have a large yard with lots of trees. [18] Blowing the leaves is very useful if you live next to a forest, since you can blow them towards the forest floor.[19]You can use the blower with a vacuum attachment or just a leaf vacuum. Portable leaf vacuum cleaners are useful for small areas or gardens.
If you're buying a leaf blower or vacuum, look for one with the shredding feature. Consider the reduction ratio. For example, if the product offers a reduction ratio of 10: 1, it will convert 10 bags of uncut leaves to 1 bag of shredded leaves.
Be aware that the leaf blower is noisy. In addition, the most efficient one runs on gasoline, which uses fossil fuels that contribute to air pollution. [twenty-one]
5 Hire a professional. If you decide to hire a professional to clean the sheets, you will have to pay for each job, several times per season. [22] If you don't have time to do sheet cleaning, this might be a good option for you. Another alternative is to rent a wheeled leaf blower like the one the pros use for $ 50 a day.[2. 3]
Most homeowners pay between $ 180 and $ 500, but the cost depends on the size of your lawn. Expect to pay 75 to $ 900. [24]
Contact a professional and have the measurements of your garden ready, as well as the number of trees in it. Ask if he can give you a quote for cleaning sheets.
Method 3 Discard the leaves
1 Turn them into mulch for your lawn. Optionally, you can first aerate your lawn to make the nutrients penetrate deeper into the soil. [25] Shred the leaves into small pieces (about the size of a dime) with the pruner. It may be necessary to give them several passes with the mower if they are large or the coat is deep. [26] When you do this type of garden cleaning, you will leave the small pieces on the lawn to make their way into the dirt. Leaf mulch suppresses weeds and fertilizes the soil, as well as enriching the soil in spring. [27]
If you want them to break down fast, you should be able to see half the grass through the shredded leaves.
2 Mulch your growing beds or flower beds. Once you have collected the leaves, you can shred them for use in composting or creating mulch. Put the leaves in a large trash can. Then tear them up with a grass trimmer. [28] You could also use a leaf shredder. [29] Leaves make an excellent natural mulch because they do not carry black spores into homes and buildings like wood mulch does, which can damage house siding and plants. [30]
3 Compose them. Turn the leaves into "black gold." Compost is an excellent natural fertilizer for your lawn and garden. You should mulch them before putting them in the compost pile if you want them to break down faster. The decomposed leaves will serve to fertilize your garden in spring. [31]
You can leave the pile of leaves out in the open and add it to the compost pile in spring. [32]
4 Drive them into the ground with a cultivator. Crush the leaves first. Then drive them into the ground with a cultivator. The goal is to provide organic matter and nutrients to feed the lawn in spring. [33]
5 Contact your municipality to find out if they have a fall cleaning policy. If not, find out how to dispose of leaves and other yard waste. Some municipal authorities have specific regulations that you must follow when cleaning the garden. [3. 4]
You can ask them “Do you have a community recycling program for fall leaves? Is there a municipal composting system with collection on the sidewalk? ”. If a municipal fall cleaning program has not been implemented, ask how to dispose of yard waste in general.
In some cities, you just bag the leaves and leave them on the curb so a designated person can pick them up on a specific day of the week. In other areas, leaves are swept into the street gutter for leaf pickers to collect by car.
6 Offer them to a neighbor. Trees should look healthy without fungus or other known diseases. Bag the leaves and offer them to neighbors who want to mulch or compost. This will be especially useful for neighbors with cultivation beds or flower beds. [35]
7 Burn the leaves. You can burn them if it is allowed to do so in your area. You may need an outdoor fire permit to dispose of the leaves this way. Some cities require the presence of a member of the fire department for the duration of the fire, while others require you to notify them in advance.
Check with your local government by contacting their authorities or by searching their website for keywords such as "burn" and "make fire."
8 Make crafts. You can use fall leaves as fun craft projects. There are several ways to preserve the leaves . Then you can use them to make bookmarks, coasters, wall decorations, candle holders, and many other crafts for kids or adults.
Tips
Choose a windless day to get rid of the leaves to prevent them from spreading throughout the garden.
If you live with children, they can help rake and dive into leaf piles.
Warnings
If you don't clean your yard in the fall, you will have additional work in the spring.
If you plan to burn the leaves when cleaning the yard, you should have a metal screen and a closed container or other fire protection equipment. If you can't contain the fire, the wind could blow burning debris into wooded areas, gardens, or other flammable locations.
Do not throw the leaves in the trash. They will remain underground in a landfill where they will take a long time to decompose and will be of no use to anyone. [37]
Leaf Blower - 20V Leaf Blower Cordless with Battery & Charger, Electric Leaf Blower for Lawn Care, Battery Powered Leaf Blower Cordless Lightweight for Snow Blowing (Battery & Charger Included)
About this item
Advanced Motor and Turbo Engine Tech; Snapfresh leaf blower equipped copper motor, with advanced turbo techs the motor could provide longer product life span and reduce energy consumption than traditional engine; Besides, snapfresh cordless leaf blower applied turbocharging technology which increased the max air output to 130mph; Snapfresh is the mark of better user experience with higher sustainability
Dual Speed Mode with Adjustable Blowing Tubes; Snapfresh cordless leaf blower cordless carries speed adjusting function; The 2 in 1 design realizes the aim of changing operating scenario by simply pushing the switch; Two modes, 60mph to 130mph, could help you easily convert from indoor work to outdoor work; With adjustable blowing tubes, people with all height would find out a comfortable using experience
Ultra-lightweight and Ergonomic Design; Snapfresh understand customer’s needs of house working tool; Snapfresh cordless leaf blower designed for family work has a super light body which weight less than 2.7lb, can be comfortably operated by one hand; The handgrip is wrapped with flexible rubber, helps you prevent slipping when using; Snapfresh, refresh your house working experience
Full Accessory, Battery, and Charger Included; Snapfresh leaf blower is the first choice for your family, we provide all accessories you need to start your work immediately; No need for extra purchase like other brands; The included 2.0ah 20v battery could support you for 15-25min work depending on mode; A full charge will take 1 hour using included fast charger (please do not charge overnight)
Quick Assembly, All for The User; Snapfresh’s mission is ‘to make people’s life easier’, all product by Snapfresh is designed base on this mission; our products are lightweight, well fitted and could be assembly within minutes
How to deal with fallen leaves in the fall
I love fall . After a long, hot summer (it's been really humid on the east coast!), It's a relief to enjoy the fresh air the season brings. But with autumn comes the fall of the leaves and, if you live in a house with a garden, you need a good plan to get rid of these in an effective and good way for you and your home.
1. Sweep the leaves with a rake
For most of us who live in houses with a little garden, sweeping the leaves is one of the autumn traditions. It is undoubtedly a good exercise and you enjoy the outdoors, but I advise you to choose the right materials to facilitate your work. Start by choosing a rake that is light and has an ergonomic handle… you will notice the difference in your hands and on your back! Also look for a model whose end is shaped like a curved fan to collect the maximum number of sheets in each pass. The best rakes are designed so that their tines pick up leaves without damaging the grass or digging into the ground. Do not forget to wear gloves to avoid blisters, caused by rubbing with the handle, and to wear closed shoes. If you suffer from allergies, do this work with a mask.
The most effective method of grouping the leaves is to sweep and accumulate them on a large tarp on the ground. The tarp is easy to transport from one place to another just by dragging it and, when you have all the sheets together, it will be easier to put them in the bags they sell for this purpose or simply put them next to the curb for the trucks to vacuum of recycling . To collect the leaves quickly and efficiently, I advise you to make a small investment ( about $ 15) in one of the devices that collect leaves ( leaf scoop ), since these are adjusted in each hand to make them larger and collect more leaves at the same time .
2. Shred the leaves with a lawnmower
The mower is not only for cutting grass in the spring and summer. When autumn comes, also use it to cut and shred fallen leaves on the lawn. You will save a lot of time and work! Just be careful to put the mower blade in the highest position and remove the bag where the grass clippings collect. Then run the mower over the blades over and over again until they are reduced to very small pieces. In addition to avoiding the hassle of sweeping, collecting and disposing of leaves, the advantage of this method is that it turns the remnants of shredded leaves (mixed with blades of grass) into a layer of mulch that is excellent for fertilizing your lawn. If after cutting the leaves into small pieces you prefer to remove them from the lawn, He puts his bag back on the mower and runs the mower through the grass again. Remember that this mixture of pieces of dried leaves and blades of grass is very good for yourcomposting or, if you have them, for raised beds in the garden.
3. Blow the leaves with the most convenient device
The leaf blowing method is one of the most popular for removing leaves from around the house and garden, then bundling them up on a tarp for easy collection. It is a particularly effective system to reach those leaves that are trapped in corners or in areas that are difficult to access. Try to blow the leaves on calm and dry days, as if they are wet they are much heavier. To choose the model that best suits your needs, take these criteria into account:
Power source Among the main options are blowers that run on electricity or gas. Among the electric, you can find wireless models that work with batteries and allow you to move freely around all outdoor spaces. By not having cables, you will avoid more than one trip and even a fall! They usually last about 30 minutes. The models that are plugged into the electrical current have the disadvantage of dragging a cable, but they have the advantage of operating without interruptions. Gas blowers are cordless and typically the most powerful, but also the loudest; they also emit a strong odor.
Power If you buy a leaf blower, consider two numbers: miles per hour (MPH) and cubic feet per minute (CFM). The latter is the most important indicator as it gives you an idea of the power of the blower, while the MPH measures the speed of the air (they usually range between 120 and 250 MPH). A blower that is at least 130 CFM is usually sufficient for a medium garden.
Noise Noise level, measured in decibels, is always an important consideration when choosing a blower. In fact, most municipalities have strict rules on what days and between what hours you can blow the leaves. They emit a noise between 64 and 107 decibels, so it is always advisable to use them with hearing protection. As there are small objects that can fly around you, it is also advisable to wear eye protection.
Weight Leaf blowers average between 5 and 20 pounds. My recommendation is that you choose the lightest and most efficient model for the size of your garden to alleviate the impact on your hands, arms and back. If you decide on a blower that uses gas for fuel, consider one of the backpack models. By hanging on the back, they distribute the weight better.
DEWALT 20V MAX Blower for Jobsite, Compact, Tool Only (DCE100B)
About this item
Max air flow at 100CFM. Air Speed:135 mph
3 speed variable speed switch provides control while in use
Variable speed trigger also allows adjustment of blowing power
A lightweight and compact design for ease of use
Battery sold separately
Battery & Charger Sold Separately
Clean your garden of dry leaves
Keep your garden clean and remove the annoying leaves that not only dirty your exterior but can generate diseases and pests in your green areas. For this task you can use rakes or flexible tine brooms and blowers and vacuum cleaners. We help you choose the most convenient for you.
Litter (the accumulation of dry leaves) on plants or grass hinders the beneficial action of the sun and prevents the sun's rays from bathing the grass, preventing photosynthesis and ventilation. In this way, when the litter decomposes, due to the effect of humidity, it can favor the development of fungi and diseases that are harmful to plants and lawns and lead to the appearance of bald spots and yellowish areas. In addition, harmful rodents and insects may seek shelter under the canopy of leaves. Also, wet leaves on trails or paved floors should be removed for safety, as they can cause slipping.
What tools do you need to remove the dried leaves?
You can do it manually or with electrical devices.
* If your garden is not very large, you can do a manual cleaning using a special garden broom, which has arched tines to facilitate the task. You just have to make piles of dry leaves and put them in bags so that the wind does not scatter them.
Garden brooms can be made of galvanized or laminated steel or plastic, and the tines are usually flat or round. They come in many sizes, and even adjustable, allowing you to select the sweep width.
* In addition, garden brooms are also good for raking and leveling the soil.
* In large areas, sweeping with a broom can be unproductive if large amounts of leaves have to be piled up and removed. In that case, cleaning is done with the help of blowers and vacuum cleaners that reduce time and labor. There are machines that are just blowers and others that are blowers and vacuums and, in some cases, even leaf shredders as well.
They are very easy to use and their handling requires little effort. They work by projecting jets of air (thanks to a narrow nozzle tube to focus the blow) to sweep and accumulate the dry leaves. The suction blowers include a second tube with a wider nozzle to suck the leaves, which also allows them to be stored in the bag that is part of the tool. Some models carry out both tasks with the same tube and only enough to activate a device to change from one to another. There are other machines that also have the function of shredding, which significantly reduces the volume occupied by the remains in the bag (up to 10 times less) and facilitates its reuse as mulching for the garden or orchard or to make compost.
The power supply of the blowers and vacuum cleaners can be electric, by cable (they need to have a nearby outlet) or lithium battery, or gasoline. Electric ones are suitable for small surfaces. For large gardens, those recommended for their autonomy and power are gasoline equipment. The higher the power, the easier it is to move the litter and less work time. The speed of the air flow is adjustable and, depending on the model, varies between 190 and more than 400 km / h. The capacity of the waste storage bag can be up to 50 l.
They are manufactured in light materials and their weight varies between little more than 1 and 10 kg; the heaviest include a harness.
How to remove dry leaves?
Start from the outside towards the center of the garden. If the surface is very large, plan the cleaning by sectors.
Check that all the accessories of the machine (tubes, nozzles and storage bag) are in the correct position for each function.
If the engine is gasoline, always check the oil level before starting work.
Never vacuum dirt, pine needles, or hard or non-organic debris.
Empty the waste bag after each use, clean it and ventilate it well if it is dirty to avoid the appearance of fungus.
And then ... what do you do with the dry leaves?
Compost them. With dried leaves and other plant residues, such as lawn mowing, some trimmings, and vegetable scraps that you use in the kitchen, you can make compost at home. It is a sustainable and ecological practice that will allow you to recycle these natural products to obtain a quality organic fertilizer that you can use for the bottom and cover fertilizer of the garden and orchard.
Composting in a traditional way in a pile is not complicated; however, it is much more effective to use a composter, which will allow you to control adequate levels of ventilation, temperature and humidity to regulate the rate of decomposition of organic matter.
Use the shredded leaves as mulching. At the foot of garden and orchard plants and in tree stands, those dry leaves that you have removed from the lawn or from over the hedges, shrubs and flowering plants, can become an extremely useful mulch. Not only will they shelter the roots from the effect of the cold and help conserve the humidity of the substrate, but as they disintegrate as a result of the weather conditions they will contribute to an increase in the microbial activity of the soil and will release useful nutrients for the plants. , especially phosphorus and potassium.
