Professional Stump Removal and Grinding

Posted on 4/15/19 by Llewellyn's Construction

IS STUMP REMOVAL SOMETHING I CAN DO MYSELF?

My thoughts gravitate to this response… if you have to ask, then the stump is probably too large for the average person to tackle or the location prohibits easy extraction. Old tree stumps, in a residential area can be a real eye sore as well as a breeding ground for uninvited guest such as termites, ants and even small rodents. This along with the potential hazards which arise once the roots decay, leaving voids that can cause sink holes or just the hassles related to mowing around this dead mass of wood, makes stump removal a priority for most homeowners. Before you attempt removing a large tree stump on your own, please consider this important fact. The root base, attached to most tree stumps, is equivalent to the tree’s canopy, at the trees prime. A tree’s canopy is the circumference of the branches with leaves, when the tree was at its fullest/healthiest. This same circumference is how far the roots grew away from the tree trunk in order to support the size and weight of the tree against the elements and itself. The roots have one other advantage…they have intertwined with the underground soils, pipes and anything else located within their reach, to reinforce their grip, so the tree would be stable. So now you need to ask yourself, Is my truck, or should I say bumper, strong enough to pull the tree stump, including roots and anything attached to the root system, out without causing damage? Then, if you are able to extract the tree stump and attached root system, how are you going to dispose of it? There is a better way to get rid of an old tree stump and a professional company like Llewellyn’s Construction Inc., with over 20 years experience in all facets of tree stump removal, can help you achieve your goals.

WHAT IS THE TREE STUMP REMOVAL PROCESS?

Residential tree stump removal involves more than just digging the stump out of the ground. Factors such as accessibility, size of the root ball and its proximity to other structures including sidewalks and driveways, all need to be considered before work begins. All utility lines and underground infrastructures need to be properly marked by the appropriate affiliates. Some neighborhood HOA’s have very strict guidelines related to tree and stump removal. If your home is governed by an HOA/POA, go thru the appropriate channels and get written approval BEFORE starting the removal process. Once all the the pre-construction legwork has been completed, meet with your professional contractor and go over all your findings. Schedule a physical inspection known as a walk thru and discuss the details related to the upcoming project. This is the time to get clarity so ask questions…

The actual tree stump removal process involves the use of excavators, dozers and/or similar types of equipment, depending on the scope of work being preformed. The soils surrounding the stump are dug out allowing the equipment to eventually extract the stump and its larger roots appendages. To salvage as much of the soils as possible and reduce the weight of the removed stump, the contractor will shake and drop the stump a few times allowing any dirt still intertwined within the rootball to fall off. The hole is then backfilled with the exposed soil and leveled off as smoothly as possible. It is usually best to wait a few weeks before adding additional dirt to allow the fluff in the refilled hole to settle. This task is most often the responsibility of the homeowner since it is a matter of preference as to how much dirt, if any, needs to be added. The disposal of the tree stump is usually handled by the contractor. The stump is hauled off to an environmentally approved location where it is most often recycled into mulch or compost.

WHAT IS STUMP GRINDING?

Stump grinding is another option for removing tree stumps. This process involves the use of a grinder which is attached to a bobcat or similar type machine. The grinder shreds the stump into mulch which can be used to refill the void where the stump was or in other areas as needed. This process is great for removing stumps located in a restricted area and for a quick fix but there are some concerns. This method only grinds up the actual stump leaving the root system in place. Depending on the size of the roots left to decay, large voids can occur causing sink holes where the roots have disintegrated. This may not seem like a big deal but if these decaying roots are located underneath a structure, they can eventually cause foundation issues or worse. Contacting a professional contractor with stump grinding experience is always your best option.

WHO CAN HELP WITH MY TREE STUMP REMOVAL?

Residential tree stump removal and stump grinding are two options for homeowners who wish to have these unsightly obstacles removed. A professional contractor like Llewellyn’s Construction Inc., can help you decide what options best suit your specific situation. Please give us a call so we can discuss your goals and help you decide which option is best for you. We offer free consultations and have over 20 years experience in tree stump removal. Let us show you how it’s done.