After cutting down a tree or losing one to a storm, you could be left with a tree stump. Tree stumps can be unsightly and obstructive. Not only is the tree’s root system usually much larger than the tree itself, but the tree stump and roots also take a long time to decompose.
The choice is yours whether to leave the tree stump, have it removed entirely, or grind it down. This guide to tree stump removal will help you decide which common tree removal service to choose.
Stump Grinding
The first tree removal service is called stump grinding. In this method, the stump grinder mulches tree stumps to a few inches below the surface while the rest of the tree’s roots are left to decay on their own. This service is cheaper and less invasive than stump removal, but the remaining roots can interfere with replanting in the area.
Tree roots may spread as far as 12 feet from where the tree originally stood, taking as much as ten years to decompose fully. On the other hand, the hole left by stump grinding will be much smaller than that of a complete stump and root removal.
Stump grinders can also leave behind a large pile of chips from the grinding process. However, you can use the chips as mulch for the rest of your garden. Depending on your situation, this may be either a pro or a con.
Pros:
- Cheaper
- Leaves a smaller hole in the ground
- Quicker / Less labor required
Cons:
- Root system left to decay
- Can interfere with replanting
Tree Stump Removal
This method of tree stump removal involves taking out the stump and the roots surrounding it. Since it requires bigger machinery, stump removal costs can be higher than other methods.
A tree stump removal company will use an earth mover to lift the stump, then dig a large hole to collect the roots. This process will leave you with a large hole in your property, but once it is filled in, you will have more ability to replant the area as you see fit.
Removing the tree stump and roots also eliminates the risk of fungus or insects infecting the leftover material. Therefore, should you decide to pay the full removal cost, you’ll at least not have to worry about pests spreading from the roots to other areas of your garden.
Pros:
- Tree stump and roots removed completely
- Easier replanting
- No risk of infected roots
Cons:
- More expensive
- Leaves a bigger hole in the ground
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Do DIY Tree Stump Removal?
We typically do not recommend manual tree stump removal. While the upfront cost of hiring a professional is higher than manual removal, an expert will save you money over time by doing it correctly on the first attempt. Trying it yourself can lead to expensive mistakes.
What About Chemical Stump Removal?
Tree stump removal by chemical rotting can work, but it is a slow process that will take several years. Sadly, there’s no easy solution for how to rot a tree stump fast. DIY methods come in various forms such as Epsom salt or products labeled stump remover or stump killer. Users will drill holes in the stump and fill them with chemicals. These methods have varied safety and risk to the environment–so hire your local tree service instead.
What Type of Service Should I Hire to Remove my Tree stump?
Whether you decide on a stump grinder or complete removal, look for a certified arborist to perform the job correctly.
Call a Certified Arborist
At LTRC Tree Specialists, we take pride in knowing everything there is to know about tree stump removal. Reach out to us today for a free estimate if you need to remove a stump, grind one down, or just want to take better care of your trees.</span After cutting down a tree or losing one to a storm, you could be left with a tree stump. Tree stumps can be unsightly and obstructive. Not only is the tree’s root system usually much larger than the tree itself, but the tree stump and roots also take a long time to decompose.
The choice is yours whether to leave the tree stump, have it removed entirely, or grind it down. This guide to tree stump removal will help you decide which common tree removal service to choose.
Stump Grinding
The first tree removal service is called stump grinding. In this method, the stump grinder mulches tree stumps to a few inches below the surface while the rest of the tree’s roots are left to decay on their own. This service is cheaper and less invasive than stump removal, but the remaining roots can interfere with replanting in the area.
Tree roots may spread as far as 12 feet from where the tree originally stood, taking as much as ten years to decompose fully. On the other hand, the hole left by stump grinding will be much smaller than that of a complete stump and root removal.
Stump grinders can also leave behind a large pile of chips from the grinding process. However, you can use the chips as mulch for the rest of your garden. Depending on your situation, this may be either a pro or a con.
Pros:
- Cheaper
- Leaves a smaller hole in the ground
- Quicker / Less labor required
Cons:
- Root system left to decay
- Can interfere with replanting
Tree Stump Removal
This method of tree stump removal involves taking out the stump and the roots surrounding it. Since it requires bigger machinery, stump removal costs can be higher than other methods.
A tree stump removal company will use an earth mover to lift the stump, then dig a large hole to collect the roots. This process will leave you with a large hole in your property, but once it is filled in, you will have more ability to replant the area as you see fit.
Removing the tree stump and roots also eliminates the risk of fungus or insects infecting the leftover material. Therefore, should you decide to pay the full removal cost, you’ll at least not have to worry about pests spreading from the roots to other areas of your garden.
Pros:
- Tree stump and roots removed completely
- Easier replanting
- No risk of infected roots
Cons:
- More expensive
- Leaves a bigger hole in the ground
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Do DIY Tree Stump Removal?
We typically do not recommend manual tree stump removal. While the upfront cost of hiring a professional is higher than manual removal, an expert will save you money over time by doing it correctly on the first attempt. Trying it yourself can lead to expensive mistakes.
What About Chemical Stump Removal?
Tree stump removal by chemical rotting can work, but it is a slow process that will take several years. Sadly, there’s no easy solution for how to rot a tree stump fast. DIY methods come in various forms such as Epsom salt or products labeled stump remover or stump killer. Users will drill holes in the stump and fill them with chemicals. These methods have varied safety and risk to the environment–so hire your local tree service instead.
What Type of Service Should I Hire to Remove my Tree stump?
Whether you decide on a stump grinder or complete removal, look for a certified arborist to perform the job correctly.
Call a Certified Arborist
At LTRC Tree Specialists, we take pride in knowing everything there is to know about tree stump removal. Reach out to us today for a free estimate if you need to remove a stump, grind one down, or just want to take better care of your trees.
Related Posts
Contact Us For A Free Estimate!