Fun Facts on Stump Grinding and Removal
An unsightly stump in the yard can put one in a mind to do something about it. But when it comes to getting rid of it, is grinding or an outright removal what you are after? For that matter, do you know what sets them apart?
Five Star Tree Solutions has the answers. As a veteran-owned tree service we have been of service to Kalamazoo County with pride since 2016. We are at your disposal 24/7 for the homeowners and businesses in our area; pick up the phone at (269) 215-5474.
We have put together this post to put some useful and entertaining facts before you concerning the merits of stump grinding as opposed to removal. After reading on, you will be in a position to make an informed decision for your property.
Stump Grinding Explained
There is no mystery to stump grinding. You have a machine of a certain make grind the stump into wood chips down to a few inches under the surface. The root system is left to its own devices in the soil where it will decompose.
One thing to consider: those chips make for good mulch in the garden beds. It is a way for the homeowner to have a no cost supply for landscaping and not have any waste to deal with.
For the most part it is the quicker, less intrusive course of action. Your lawn is largely undisturbed and once we are finished you are free to put some soil or grass back in place.
When to Opt for Stump Removal
This is more of an undertaking. The whole of the stump is extracted from the ground, root ball and all, leaving a sizeable hole in its wake.
People are often under the impression they know how far a tree’s roots go. In fact a root system can extend two or three times the width of the canopy. Full removal therefore makes for a lot more disturbance than grinding.
You would typically go with removal if you intend to put in a new tree or pour a driveway in that very spot.
Some You May Not Have Known
We like to share these with our customers as they are apt to come as a surprise:
- Let a stump alone and it could be ten years before it has rotted away.
- Grinding is the way to go to put an end to regrowth; stumps will send up shoots well after the tree is felled.
- Termites and carpenter ants are drawn to an old stump and from there can make their way to your home.
- Our machines range from large ones for the bigger stumps to a walk-behind.
- You may find the volume of the wood chips from grinding is twice that of the stump.
- Then there is the matter of drainage. Decaying roots can impede water so complete removal can be an improvement.
Making a Choice
What to do? That is a function of what you want to do with the space.
If an affordable solution is preferred and you have no qualms about the roots underfoot, then stump grinding is the answer. It is a fast fix and does not upset the lawn.
But should you wish to build or have no trace of the tree left behind, then you will want a full removal.
We would be the first to tell you that each yard presents its own set of circumstances. The species of tree and the dimensions of the stump factor in as much as your plans for the land. A word with a professional never hurts.
The Five Star Difference
Our work is backed by a 100 percent satisfaction guarantee and we are licensed and insured with an A+ from the BBB. Being a company run by veterans we believe in being straightforward and treating people right.
Our reach extends to all of Kalamazoo County and the surrounding towns of Portage, Vicksburg, Westwood Township, Comstock, Oshtemo, Mattawan, Richland, Schoolcraft, Paw Paw and Kalamazoo itself.
Do not let an old stump have its way with your yard. Call us at (269) 215-5474 and leave the hard part to our team. We are here to help, day or night.