After a Nor’easter storm blows through town, the area often looks like a war zone. Trees are toppled, branches are resting on cars and entranceways are blocked by limbs, broken structures and typical storm damage. There are leaves, saplings and trash bits of debris stuck to everything or piled up on the street. Cleaning up can be tedious, but with use of 5 basic power tools, recovery can be swift and efficient.

Chainsaws

Downed trees, tree limbs and branches are usually the biggest problems facing homeowners and motorists after a nor’easter. After the wind has its way, trees may fall on houses, vehicles and roadways. These are generally blocked until someone removes them. The best course of action is to use a chainsaw. Cutting wood into smaller pieces makes for easier and more manageable removal. Turning large chunks into firewood is one option. Chainsaws make short work of this task.

Spray Guns

When poisonous vegetation, such as poison ivy, sumac or oak are draped all over areas that require extensive clean-up, wearing work gloves may not be enough. If time permits, it is possible to first spray the area with an herbicide or other neutralizing agent. While this may need 10 to 14 days to take effect, using a sticking agent with help from a professional will cut the time in half. This will minimize the dangers to those doing the work or walking through the area.

Chippers

When large trees are down, cutting them up is a good start. Depending upon the type of tree it is, they can be used for fire logs or mulch. Using a wood chipper will make a bed of mulch that can be used for landscaping trees, gardens or recreational areas. Many evergreens, such as pine, are popular

Hedge Trimmers

Once the main debris has been removed, the leftover bushes and hedges may appear mangled and worn. After allowing them to dry out for a day or two, use a hedge trimmer to reshape the bushes. This will help restore the yard’s appearance to a more normal and polished look.

Leaf Blowers

When an area is just clipped by a nor’easter storm, there may be minimal damage. Trees may lose their leaves without toppling or leaning. Pine needles, leaf bits and paper trash may be scattered everywhere and may stick to buildings, railings and pile up in a mess. Use a leaf blower to corral the debris into one area for easier clean-up and removal.