Both stump grinding and stump removal are two common methods used to eliminate tree stumps. When it’s time to get rid of stumps in your yard, it can be difficult to decide which method to adopt.
In this article, we will describe the two techniques for eliminating tree stumps to help you decide which option is best for you.
What is stump grinding?
This process entails grinding down a tree stump using a specialized wood chipper without removing the roots. The wood chipper rotates at a very high speed to mechanically grind out the stump, reducing it down to ground level or up to a few inches below the soil, depending on your desired height. The stump can be ground down to just 2 inches below the surface of the ground or as low as 12 inches below the soil level. The rest is left to decay on its own. Grinding a tree stump leaves wood chip mulch as a residue. However, stump grinding doesn’t involve removing the roots. Even though stump grinding is less expensive, it carries the possibility of eventual sprouts, and the remaining roots could decay and attract pests.
What Is Stump Removal?
This process involves removing the entire stump from the ground along with the roots. Stump removal requires the use of heavy machinery and is more labor-intensive. Unlike stump grinding which leaves the tree’s root system in the ground, stump removal completely takes out the stump and the roots. The process of removing tree stumps together with their roots can be tedious and time-consuming. Stump removal completely eliminates a tree stump, thereby eliminating the possibility of sprouts. Furthermore, the process doesn’t leave behind roots that pests could thrive on.
The Benefits of Stump Grinding Over Stump Removal
Stump grinding is less expensive than stump removal because grinding down a stump is far easier to execute as compared to pulling out the entire stump together with the roots. Besides, grinding down a stump is less labor-intensive because the process is pretty straightforward. If you are more concerned about the cost, stump grinding is the more economical choice.
The process of stump grinding is also recommended for anyone who is looking for a greater level of neatness and environmental friendliness, because it does not involve deep extraction, which can leave your yard in a messy state.
When Is Stump Removal Recommended?
Stump removal is recommended for those who want to eliminate the stump completely so there’s no chance of regrowth or sprout, or decaying roots that pests can thrive on.
However, stump removal is more expensive than stump grinding and leaves behind a large hole that could dent your landscape’s curb appeal or cost you more money to fill.
If you are not sure stump grinding or removal is right for you, call Grand Rapids Stump Grinding for help.
Need Stump Removal or Stump Grinding Services? Reach Out to Grand Rapids Stump Grinding
Grand Rapids Stump Grinding offers stump grinding and stump removal services suited just for you.