Stop using your climbing spikes on every tree removal

I used to throw on my spikes for any job that required going up, even removals in tight backyards. Then I worked with a guy in Portland last spring who showed me how much unnecessary damage spikes do to the cambium layer on live trees we're trying to preserve. Now I only use them when the tree is coming down completely, and I switched to a friction saver for pruning jobs. Has anyone else switched up their climbing gear after seeing what spikes can do?

2 comments

2 Comments

ruby_patel2717d agoMost Upvoted

I get what you're saying about cambium damage but is it really that serious for most jobs? Those trees get cut down anyway and the bark heals up pretty quick on removals. I mean yeah don't spike the oak you're trying to save but for a straight removal I don't see the big deal.

margaret30417d ago

Totally disagree with the idea that a friction saver solves everything. Those things can bind up and create their own problems on a tricky spar, especially with a bunch of weight shifting around. Spikes give you solid, stable points to stand on and work from, making the whole climb faster and safer than trying to wrestle with a floppy rope the whole time.