Stump Grinding

Stump Grinding

Stump grinding is usually the final step in the tree removal process. Typically the tree removal crew will leave the remaining stump 4-6 inches above the ground for the stump grinder to take care of. . All stump grinders use the same process for grinding. There is a rotating cutting wheel on the front of the machine that has carbide teeth attached to it. Once the Stump grinder is maneuvered into place the wheel will be engaged and the grinding will commence.

Once engaged the cutter wheel will work back and forth over the stump. It will grind about 2 inches at a time. The typical stump will be grinded to a depth of 6-8 inches below the grade.

After the stump grinding process is done all of the mulch will be raked into a pile and left to settle. If you are planning on installing turf or new trees and shrubs you will need to remove the mulch.

Surface Roots

Surface roots are another option to be ground.  Maple trees are notorious for having surface roots, especially in a yard with some erosion or water issues.  The root system in a tree is very critical to tree healthy.  Any cutting of a trees roots can cause a tree to go into decline rapidly.  Consult an arborist to discuss options if a tree can be saved upon cutting its roots.  Many times, if roots need to be cut or pruned, the tree will need to be removed in its entirety.  Grinding surface roots is another separate cost aside from grinding a tree stump.

Scheduling Delays Weather Permitting

When the ground is wet, the 5,000 lb stump machines should not be put on a customers yard.  This is generally the case after a heavy wet rain storm.  Light rains that occur after dry periods allow for a stump job to be completed.   Stumps that are in backyards are tough to get when it rains, and will need to wait to be completed once the ground is dry.  Stumps in close proximity to driveways and the street are OK to grind when its wet.