Stump Grinding 101

If you have never had a tree removed from your landscape, you may assume that the stump removal will be included. This step is often in addition to the removal of the trunk and canopy, not wrapped into the package. There are many methods to remove the stump including burning or digging out the stump and its roots. But the fastest way to remove it is through stump grinding.

How Stump Grinding Works

In this process, a stump grinder is used to chip away the wood. The blade of the grinder is a metal wheel with teeth, somewhat resembling a circular saw. Removing the stump of a tree will not only improve the aesthetics of your lawn, it will also protect the health of your remaining forestry by reducing the risk of tree decay.

Performing the Basics

1. Contact your local phone and utility companies to locate any underground pipes or wires before you begin. Skipping this step could cause major problems during the process.
2. Remove any potential debris, particularly rocks, out of the way of the stump grinder. Such objects can hurt the teeth of the blade and cause injury to the machine’s operator.
3. Use eye and ear protection while operating the machine.
4. Saw the trunk close to the ground, if you have not already done so. The closer the rim of the stump is to the ground, the less time the process will take.
5. Position the machine so the wheel is directly over the stump’s edge. Begin to lower the blade into the stump a few inches. Swing the wheel from side to side to chip away the stump. Reposition the machine and repeat this process.
6. Determine the depth you need to chip away which depends on your next action. If you are covering the area with grass, you need roughly 6 inches for the roots. If you are planting a new tree, removing the roots may require assistance from a certified arborist.

Renting Equipment vs. Hiring a Professional

Depending on the size of the stump and the cost of the rental equipment, it may be less expensive to hire a certified arborist. Ostvig Tree Care provides stump grinding, which will save you the rental cost and calling your local utilities—we’ll make the calls for you. If you decide to rent a stump grinder, be sure to ask the dealer about all of the controls and how to operate the machine efficiently and safely. Keep in mind that you will need towing capabilities on your vehicle to transport the equipment. If you are unable to do this, many stump grinder dealers will bring the equipment to your site for an additional fee. Also, be sure to specify the size (specifically the diameter) of the trunk so you are renting a properly sized machine.