Birch Repair Completed (?)

[Pondracer]

Hi,

I've completed most of my birch repair using bolts and a clamp made from ipe. Should I leave this clamp on? Also, should I seal that crack? I'd like this thing to make it at least 3 years.

First Pic - Birch Repair (100k)
Second Pic - Birch Repair (115k)
Third Pic - Birch Repair (108k)

Thanks to all for your help.

 

[Stumper]

Pondracer. While your Ipe wooden clamp blocks distribute the pressure load over several square inches I fear they will still be too restrictive and will cause damage to the Phloem and cambial zone. Through bolts with washers are the accepted means of bracing a split because they "crush" on a small enough area that the majority of the circumference is unaffected and can eventually cover the bolt heads and washers with woundwood. However, I look forward to the input of others-We continue to learn new techniques. Non-invasive Cabling has been a huge success. Perhaps non-invasive bracing will work also. If the system you are using does work it will definitely require periodic loosening of the clamps to allow for stem expansion/growth.

 

[jason j ladue]

pondracer,
the through bolts look pretty good. nice work. stumper is making some sense about the blocks though. they just dont seem right. i still dont think that tree will be able to make any kind of long-term recovery. as you said, that stem may last several more years, and that may satisfy you. the one thing that tree has going for it is that is a young(er) specimen- still has lots of energy for repairing it's self. you'll have to keep us posted as time goes on...best of luck to you both :angel: