Tree Stump Grinding FAQs

Here at Madd Beaver Tree Service we get asked lots of questions before and during the stump grinding process. Here we have written out some of the most common, with their corresponding answers…

Of course, if you have any further questions, do not hesitate to reach out to us..

Is it better to grind a stump or remove it?

Generally grinding is the better option. Removal uses heavy machinery which can be more disruptive.

We have written a dedicated article on this..

How long does it take to grind a tree stump?

Anywhere from 15 minutes – 6 hours.

How long does it take for a tree stump to rot if left?

Minimum – 3 years Maximum – 20 years

How long it takes a stump to rot determines on many factors: Climate, location, size of the stump. It’s quite a lottery really.

Can all tree stumps be ground?

No, not always. Most can but there are occasions where stumps cannot be ground or removed so easily.

The ultimate problem is access. Stump grinders are specialist tools that come in a certain size and so sometimes they cannot be brought into where the tree is. Or for instance when a tree is inside a concrete planter or sidewalk. The grinder would cause serious damage to the infrastructure.

Can you grind a stump using a chainsaw?

No, definitely not! This is not a good idea. Grinding a stump with a chainsaw should never be done. There is a greater risk of injuring yourself, damaging the chainsaw, and snapping the chain. Further, chainsaws do not have the appropriate guards to prevent wood chumps from flying at you.

Can you use chemical stump killers?

Yes you can, but the process is much slower.

It can take anywhere from 4-6 weeks.

You also have to be quick with chemical stump killer products, as they work best immediately after the tree has been felled. If you do not do it straight after then you will need to re-cut the stump before you apply the treatment.

Is stump grinding dangerous

Yes, stump grinding is very dangerous. These high-powered machines use very sharp, rotating cutting tools which spin at high speeds. There is considerable noise and flying wood chips.

Can you Perform DIY stump removal?

Yes you can, but few people recommend it. This is best left to a professional who knows what they are doing and has the proper protective equipment.

What Happens to the Roots?

Tree roots can spread wide and far in the area around the trunk. Since stump grinding focuses on the most visible roots under and around the stump, the rest are left to rot over time. It is too disruptive, costly and time-consuming doing anything about the remaining roots.

Do you have any other questions? Feel free to reach out to us… (203) 305-2584

We will donate up to 10% of our service fees to charity (Through October 1st)