When you have a tree removed from your backyard, a professional tree removal company will also recommend stump grinding. It will allow you to use the area where the tree once stood for whatever purpose you want. Moreover, leaving the unsightly tree stump in the yard can attract unwanted pests and prove problematic for the entire yard. If you have had a tree professionally removed, you may have some questions regarding stump grinding. Read on to know the answers to some common questions concerning stump grinding.
What exactly is stump grinding?
It is usually the last step in the tree removal process. Once the tree removal team finishes their job, they will leave the remaining stump between 10-15 centimeters above the ground. The team will use a stump grinder to get rid of this stump.
As the name suggests, the stump grinder is a machine that grinds away at the stump of the tree after it has been cut down. A stump grinder has a rotating blade that grinds the stump into fine pieces as it spins. Stump grinders come in different shapes and sizes-some have tracks, and others have wheels.
The stump grinding process removes the stump of the tree while leaving its roots intact underground. However, the professionals can grind down the stump to the desired level, depending on whether you want it to be even with the ground or want to go several inches deep.
Is stump grinding the same as stump removal?
Many people use stump removal and grinding interchangeably, but these are two very different processes. As we said, in stump grinding, the professionals will grind all visible parts of the stump and the exposed roots and turn them into mulch.
Over time, the roots that are left behind after stump grinding will decay. However, if the roots are invasive and have already caused damage to the property, stump grinding will not make any difference.
Stump removal is a different process. In stump removal, the entire stump and the root ball are fully excavated from the ground, leaving a hole behind. Depending on the size of the tree removed, this hole can be pretty large. Most tree removal companies offer stump grinding services. For complete stump removal, you might have to use the services of an excavation company.
What more should you know about stump grinding services?
- It can help eradicate any diseases present in the stump. So, stump grinding is a great option when the tree is already infested, or there is a risk of infestation.
- It is the greener option because the stump is left in the ground where it eventually turns into mulch. However, if you wish to plant another tree in the same spot, you should choose stump removal as there will be no risk of invasion by trees of the old tree.
- It is a less expensive option compared to complete stump removal.
- If the stump is diseased or infested with pests, stump grinding is a great option as it will get rid of all the insects and pests present in the stump.
What happens afterward?
After grinding the stump, cleaning up the area, removing the grindings, and filling the hole with topsoil are recommended. In addition, methods like using herbicides and covering the area with a tarp are suggested to prevent regrowth. Proper aftercare is essential to ensure the safety and aesthetics of the surrounding area. However, large or complex grinding jobs require professionals.
Are you looking for tree removal and stump grinding services? Get in touch with our tree experts now. We will help remove the problematic tree hassle-free and ensure that the stump is also taken care of. Our services are best rated in the area and competitively priced.