The wind has dropped, the rain has eased, and you step outside to find branches across the lawn, leaves piled against the fence and perhaps a fallen limb or two. Storm damage is never welcome, but with the right kit and a sensible plan, the clean-up is far less daunting than it looks.

Here's how we'd tackle it, and the equipment that makes each job quicker, safer and easier.

1. Safety first, always

Before you pick up a single branch, take a walk round and check:

•         Overhead hazards. Look for hanging or broken branches before you work underneath them.

•         Power lines. If anything is touching or near overhead cables, stay well clear and contact your network operator. This is not a DIY job.

•         Trees under tension. Fallen trees and branches that are bent or trapped can spring or roll when cut. If you're unsure, leave it to a professional.

If you're using a chainsaw, wear the right protective gear: chainsaw-rated trousers, boots, gloves, a helmet with visor and ear defenders. Never use a chainsaw above shoulder height or from a ladder.

2. Clear the leaves and light debris with a leaf blower

Storms strip trees and shrubs, leaving lawns, patios, gutters' edges and driveways buried in leaves, twigs and general mess. Raking it all by hand can take hours. A good leaf blower can clear the same area in a fraction of the time, and can reach under hedges and into corners a rake never will.

•        Cordless models are quiet, light and ideal for average gardens.

•        Petrol models give extra power and run-time for larger plots and heavy, wet leaves.

Not sure which suits your garden? Pop in and we'll talk you through the options.

3. Cut fallen timber down to size with a chainsaw

For larger branches and storm-felled limbs, a chainsaw is the tool for the job. Match the saw to the work: a lighter, easy-handling saw for logs and branches around the garden, and something with more power for bigger timber.

A few tips for the best results:

•        Check chain tension and bar oil before every use.

•        Keep both hands on the saw and your feet firmly planted.

•        Plan your cuts so the timber can't pinch the bar.

We stock a range of chainsaws for homeowners and professionals, and we'll happily show you how to use yours properly.

4. A sharp chain makes all the difference

Storm clean-ups are hard on chains. Soil, grit and stones dull them quickly, and a blunt chain is slow, tiring and more dangerous because it encourages you to push harder.

Signs it's time for a new chain:

•        Fine sawdust instead of chunky chips

•        The saw pulling to one side

•        Needing to force the saw through the wood

•        Smoke or burning smells while cutting

We carry replacement chains and guide bars for most popular makes. Bring in your old chain (or your saw's model details) and we'll match it up.

5. Servicing: get your kit storm-ready

If your chainsaw, leaf blower or other equipment has been sitting in the shed since last year, now is the time to get it checked. A service from our workshop keeps your machines starting first pull, running efficiently and cutting safely. It's also far better than discovering a fault halfway through a job.

Our servicing covers the likes of:

•        Spark plug and air filter checks

•        Carburettor and fuel system attention

•        Chain sharpening and bar maintenance

•        Safety checks on brakes and controls

6. Too much for one weekend? Hire a chipper

Piles of branches and brash don't disappear on their own. Our chipper hire turns bulky branches into useful wood chip that can be used as mulch for borders and paths, or added to the compost heap.

It's a great option if you've got a lot of material to deal with, and a lot cheaper than endless trips to the tip. 

7. Reach high branches safely with a pole pruner

Not every broken branch is on the ground. Damaged limbs still hanging in the tree should be removed before they come down on their own. A pole pruner lets you trim and tidy up high branches from the ground, with no ladder and no climbing needed.

Our pole pruner hire is ideal for one-off jobs, so there's no need to buy a machine you'll only use now and again. For anything large, heavy or close to buildings or power lines, call in a qualified tree surgeon.

Need a hand? Talk to us

Whether you're after a new leaf blower, a replacement chain, a quick service or a day's hire of a chipper or pole pruner, the team at Border Chainsaw & Lawnmower Services is here to help, with straight advice and kit that's up to the job.

Call us on 01896 849 238, drop in to Earlston, or get in touch via enquiries@borderchainsaw.co.uk

Hire equipment is subject to availability, so please call ahead to reserve.