Stump Grinding – Northwest, IN
Northwest, IN Tree Stump Removal Services
When you have a tree stump that needs to be flattened or removed, Log Masters Tree Service has the team and equipment to get ‘er done. As you may have guessed, Stump Removal is a full removal of your tree stump including the roots underground, while stump grinding flattens the stump so that the ground naturally sits evenly with you existing lawn. In short, unlike stump removal, stump grinding does not completely dig out the tree roots underneath the stump. Though it is true that stump grinding is cheaper and faster, there are cases where stump removal is the better option, like cases when a structure or new tree is being positioned where the stump used to be.
How Stump Removal Works?
Stump Removal requires a thorough dig, either manually or with heavy equipment, to expose the roots of the tree stump and remove the stump from the ground in totality. If the tree stump in question was old, you will be digging more deeply, as the roots will run deeper. Similarly, if the tree stump is extremely large, the circumference of your dig requires significantly more time, effort and people-power. The goal is to dig up the stump and all of its tree roots, so you can utilize the area where it existed for other purposes including planting new shrubbery and trees, or building a new home or structure.
How Stump Grinding Works?
Stump Grinding utilizes a stump grinder machine (like the one in the video below) that has a large spinning blade called a rotating cutter wheel that grinds a stump about 2 feet below ground level. After annihilating the stump, the newly emptied space is covered in wood chips which can be used to fill the hole or removed. The hole will also be filled with dirt until the ground is level, as if there was never a stump present.
Some Common Reasons People Remove or Grind Tree Stumps
Tree stumps are often removed for various reasons, as they can present several challenges and potential issues.
Common reasons people remove tree stumps include:
- Aesthetics: Stumps can be unsightly and disrupt the overall appearance of a landscape, especially in well-maintained gardens or yards.
- Obstruction: Stumps can get in the way of mowing, landscaping, or other activities on the property.
- Safety Concerns: Stumps can pose tripping hazards, especially if they are not easily visible due to overgrown grass or vegetation.
- Space Utilization: Removing a stump creates more usable space, allowing for new plantings, construction, or other landscaping features.
- Pest Attraction: Stumps can attract insects and pests, including termites, carpenter ants, and other wood-boring insects, which may eventually spread to nearby structures.
- Root System Issues: The root system of a stump can continue to grow and cause damage to underground utilities, pipes, or nearby structures.
- Land Preparation: When preparing a site for new construction or landscaping, removing stumps is necessary to clear the area.
- Replanting or Rejuvenation: Removing old stumps allows for replanting new trees or shrubs, providing a fresh start for the landscape.
- Disease Prevention: Stumps left behind from diseased trees can potentially harbor pathogens and increase the risk of spreading diseases to healthy trees.
There are several methods for removing tree stumps, including stump grinding, chemical stump removal, and manual removal. Stump grinding is one of the most common and effective techniques used by tree service professionals. It involves using a specialized machine to grind the stump and roots into small wood chips, which can then be used as mulch or removed from the site. Chemical stump removal involves applying chemicals to the stump to accelerate its decomposition. Manual removal requires digging around the stump and cutting the roots with tools like an axe, mattock, or chainsaw.
Regardless of the method chosen, stump removal can be a labor-intensive and potentially hazardous task, so it’s often best to seek the assistance of a professional tree service or arborist to ensure safe and effective stump removal.
How much it will cost to have your stump removed or grinded?
The cost associated with stump removal or grinding will depend on the diameter of the stump, and the location of the stump. A stump that is easily accessible will cost less to remove than a stump that is hard to access. For example a stump that is hard to get equipment in to a backyard may cost more than a stump that is easily accessed. For us to give you an accurate estimate, we need to understand the diameter size of the stump, and understand how accessible the stump is – call us TODAY and we can provide you with a FREE ESTIMATE!
Do you clean up and haul away wood chips after stump grinding or removal?
**We can help you remove the wood chips after stump grinding for a fee – please contact us to learn more.
It is generally recommended to remove wood chips after tree stump grinding. Tree stump grinding involves using a specialized machine to grind the stump into small wood chips or mulch. While the grinding process significantly reduces the stump’s size, the wood chips left behind can still present some challenges and potential hazards. Here’s why removing wood chips is a good idea:
- Aesthetic Reasons: Wood chips or mulch left in the area can be unsightly, especially if you want to have a clean and neat landscape. Removing the wood chips will improve the appearance of your yard or garden, making it more presentable.
- Replanting or Landscaping: If you plan to replant in the area or make significant landscaping changes, leaving the wood chips in the soil can hinder the process. The chips can interfere with proper root growth or cause issues with planting new vegetation.
- Pest Attraction: Wood chips left behind after grinding can attract pests like termites, ants, and beetles. These insects feed on decaying wood, and the wood chips provide an ideal environment for them to thrive. Removing the wood chips helps reduce the risk of attracting pests to your property.
- Safety Concerns: Wood chips can create tripping hazards, especially if they are spread across walkways, paths, or areas with high foot traffic. Removing the wood chips ensures a safer environment for you, your family, and visitors.
- Lawn Mowing Difficulties: Wood chips left on the ground can pose challenges when mowing the lawn. They can get caught in the mower blades, potentially causing damage to the equipment or leading to uneven cuts.
In summary, removing wood chips after tree stump grinding is advisable for aesthetic, safety, and landscaping reasons. Whether you do it yourself or hire a professional service, it’s an essential step in maintaining a clean and safe outdoor environment.
Are we bonded and insured?
Yes – we are insured and bonded to take care of stumps and trees under difficult circumstances like steep slopes, nearby homes and buildings, crammed locations, and storm damaged areas.
