A tree stump can be an eyesore, detracting from the beauty of your yard. Plus, it can act as a tripping hazard and get in the way of landscaping, in addition to attracting pests. None of these are ideal for a property. There are many options to consider to get a tree stump removed, all of which will require certain tools.

Hand Tools

Tackling the project by hand can involve a lot of hard labor. A spade or shovel can be used to dig out around the stump, and a special pickax called a mattock can chop through the roots. Slicing through the taproot requires something sharp like an ax or bow saw. Finally, a pry bar or hand winch can be useful when pulling out the stump, as these can provide better leverage.

Chemical Treatment

Manufacturers make chemical tree stump killers that speed up the decomposition process. When treated with strong, specially designed chemicals, a tree stump could be removed in a few months. It’s a gradual process that lets chemicals do most of the work. It necessitates certain tools, including a large bit attached to a power drill and, of course, the chemical tree stump killer itself. After the stump has softened, a felling ax should be able to break up the rotten wood. A wheelbarrow could be used to transport that wood to an alternate location.

Heavy Duty Equipment

A tractor or skid steer can handle difficult stump removal projects when matched up with strong wench straps and heavy-duty chains. However, these machines can’t work on their own. A shovel or spade is needed to free the stump and cut its roots. Thicker roots may be cut with a chainsaw.

Stump Grinder

Under certain circumstances, the most practical method of removing a tree stump is to use a stump grinder. A stump grinder will take care of everything in an efficient manner. It has rotating blades that will cut through the stump and process it into wood chips. After it’s done its job, a pile of woodchips will remain. They can certainly be left in place, but if they are to be removed, the tools required include a shovel and possibly a wheelbarrow.

Many Approaches

If you’d like to enhance the way your yard looks and remove a tripping hazard, there are several ways in which you can have a stump taken care of. Every strategy requires tools, and keep in mind that some approaches are more efficient than others. For assistance with stump grinding in Kalamazoo, MI, you can call Five Star Professional Services LLC.