The number of houses built in the US each year averages over 1.43 million. For many of these homes, land clearing is an essential first step in the building process. And of all the ways to clear land, there’s a heavy debate about the best way to do it.
On one side of the argument is brush mowing, which many consider the most environmentally friendly method. On the other side are more modern equipment options, such as bulldozers and chippers. While each method has its advantages, the best way to clear land depends on the size of the project, your budget, and other factors.
It’s easy to find an eco-friendly method that suits your needs and doesn’t break the bank. If you want to clear land effectively, here are a few options that will leave behind a surface that’s ready for building.
Brush Mower
If you’re looking to clear a small area, such as your backyard, a brush mower is the best choice. Brush mowers can quickly clear land that isn’t too steep and has small trees.
If you have large areas of vegetation that need cutting down, this tool won’t be able to handle it. Your local hardware store will have more land clearing equipment options that are as quick as a brush mower but with more power.
Brush Chipper
A brush chipper is a fast way to dispose of limbs, branches, and other woody debris. They’re perfect for cleaning up an old yard that needs some TLC.
A brush chipper has two spinning blades that cut through the woody material as it’s fed into the machine. The resulting chips are collected in bags. You can use these chips as mulch for future gardening projects.
These hefty machines aren’t recommended for use on hillsides or uneven terrain. But if you have flat ground, this option is perfect.
Mulcher
Mulchers are great land clearing equipment when you’re trying to break down the organic waste, so it’s easier to transport. They’re also effective at turning trees into mulch—a tremendous benefit if you’re into composting.
Land Clearing Services
If there are too many trees on your property, it’s best to reach out to a land clearing service to save yourself the headache of having to do it yourself. These companies offer a faster, more environmentally friendly way to get rid of unwanted plants. They’ll remove any debris, leave the property in better condition than before, and make sure you’ll have room for whatever building project you want!
Find the Best Way to Clear Land
The best way to clear land depends on how much time you have. A brush mower is affordable and environmentally friendly, but it takes hours if you’re working on large plots. Land clearing services are pricey, but they’ll clear huge properties in no time.
If neither of these suggestions appeals to you, look through our home and garden section for inspiration on what would work best in your new surroundings. You’ll also find suggestions for making your new house feel like home.