Answering FAQs About Stump Grinding

A leftover stump is an eyesore. Whether you’ve just cut down a dead tree or have a rotting stump that’s been there for years, find out how you can have those last remnants safely removed from your property. Review answers to common FAQs about stump grinding before scheduling a job with Martin’s Tree Service.

Why Do I Need Stump Grinding Services?

A stump may not damage your property, but it can detract from your curb appeal. Stumps take up to 20 years to naturally decompose, so you’ll have an ugly stump to look at, mow around and live with for up to two decades. It can also become a tripping hazard for children.

As the stump rots, it can harbour ants, mushrooms, fungus, moss or other living things. This can sometimes speed up the decomposition process but also further detracts from the view in your yard. Tree removal services can only cut so close to the ground, so even the most skilled chainsaw operator can’t completely remove a stump without using a stump grinding machine or excavator.

How Are Stumps Removed?

Excavating stumps is a time-consuming, expensive process. Professionals use an excavator to dig out and pull up the stump. However, this process isn’t available if the stump is near a wall, foundation or other structure. It can also create a large hole and tear up your lawn as it pulls out long roots.

A more popular stump removal process is using a stump grinder. These tools feature a powerful wheel with carbide-tipped cutting teeth. The wheel spins at a high velocity and can cut, or grind, right through even the hardest stump.

A professional carefully directs the stump grinder back and forth across the stump until it’s cut into small pieces at least 6 inches below the ground. All that’s left is a pile of wood chips, which you can use in your landscaping or fill in the hole left behind.

The entire process typically takes just a few hours. Small stumps can be ground in as little as 15 minutes. Work with a local tree service to enjoy a fast and effective stump grinding service at your home.

Is the Process Dangerous?

Stump grinders are professional tools that use high-powered cutting wheels to power through stumps. Without professional experience, it can be very dangerous to operate a grinder. The entire process is relatively fast, but it does produce considerable noise and flying wood chips.

Be sure you work with a professional team when you schedule a stump grinding service. Ask about ways your tree service experts will avoid damage to nearby structures and what they do with the leftover wood chips. Make sure your tree service team also has the proper insurance for this task.

DIY stump grinding isn’t recommended. Modern grinders are powerful machines that can send large chunks of wood flying in all directions. Without the proper protective measures, you could damage your property or receive injuries attempting to use one on your own. Digging out a stump comes with its own risks and is usually a more expensive route, so hire a tree service technician to navigate the stump grinding process in a safe, efficient manner.

Who Can Remove a Stump From My Property?

At Martin’s Tree Service, we offer professional stump grinding services for all types of tree stumps. Learn more about our stump grinding services today and schedule a job at your home. Remove any tripping hazards and enjoy a clear, stump-free view in your yard. Whether you have a single old tree stump or a property full of them, a professional team can make quick work of these eyesores and add value to your landscape.