When you remove a large tree from your yard, the final step is the tree stump grinding. This is done to remove the stump and the major roots, that remain, after cutting the tree. It is common to find that most people avoid stump removal to cut down on expenses but this step is strongly recommended as it brings on a number of benefits.
Stump grinding is a process that is more specialized than tree cutting and the costs are not usually added to the tree cutting charges. Stumps can be removed by using stump grinders, a chainsaw, a rake, and a shovel. Stumps can also be removed by using chemical agents, by burning the stump, or by causing the stump to rot.
Though stump removal is possible (but tough) for any do-it-yourself enthusiast, the job is best done by professional tree removal service personnel who are trained for the job and are armed with the right tools.
Tree stump removal methods
Prior to stump removal, the stump is assessed to decide on the technique that will be used for its removal. Whereas stumps of pine trees are easier to remove, those of deciduous trees are far more difficult. Likewise, it is easier to remove the stump of an older tree and smaller stumps are more easily removed.
Stump Grinding
Using a stump grinder is the easiest way to remove the stump of a tree. Tree stump grinding all by oneself is difficult when there are too many to be removed. After the stump grinding, all the waste is removed using a rake and a shovel. At the end of stump grinding, it should be at least 4 inches below the ground.
Chemical Stump Removal
To remove a stump chemically, the stump is trimmed as much as possible using a chainsaw. Many holes, of 1-inch diameter and 8-12 inches depth, are drilled into the stump. The holes are then filled with potassium nitrate and water and left alone for up to six weeks. The stump turns spongy and can be easily removed using an ax, shovel, and rake.
The task can also be completed by filling the holes with fuel oil and kerosene and burning off the stump after a week or so.
Tree Stump Burning
Holes drilled into the stump are filled with potassium nitrate and hot water. Once the salt has dissolved, you can set fire to the stump after placing scrap wood to cover the stump. The remnant stump pieces can be removed using a shovel and ax.
Stump Rotting
Rotting a stump for its removal follows almost the same method as burning a tree stump. After filling the hole with a high-nitrogen substance and water, it is left alone for a week after which it turns soft due to rotting. Pieces of the stump can then be chipped off and the stump fully removed.
Our San Fernando Valley company will help you remove the old tree stumps in the right manner. It is important to fill the remaining hole appropriately with soil. Burning a tree stump may require special local permissions. It would be our pleasure to answer all your questions about stump grinding before you even hire our services.
Tree stump grinding benefits
Avoid any Re-growth
First and foremost, the removal of the stump ensures that the tree does not regrow. If left behind, multiple tree stems can grow from the stem and gives a wild look, and mar the beauty of the yard. Weeds and other plants may also grow on the stump making it an eyesore.
Eliminate it as a Hazard in the Yard
Tree stumps that remain behind and are long forgotten get camouflaged by overgrown plants and weeds. They form obstacles and potential tripping hazards. The stump holes can cause pest and insect infestation too. They can even spread to other plants.
Space Is Used Up
Valuable space in the yard can be freed up if a stump is grinded. It can create space for new plants. Removal of the roots of the tree cause new plants to find appropriate nutrition and grow healthy