What Is a Stump Grinder and How Does It Work?

Removing a tree from your property may become necessary under certain circumstances. Sometimes trees die, become diseased, or are broken and weakened by strong winds or heavy snow. Tree roots can also grow too close to the home’s plumbing, foundation, or utility lines and cause damage that is expensive to repair. Regardless of the reason, tree removal will leave you with the problem of dealing with the leftover tree stump.

Stump Grinders: Expert Solutions

Stump removal involves digging out the roots in order to eradicate the stump. It’s an expensive and intensive process that also leaves the homeowner with a gaping hole to fill where the tree used to be. The less expensive and more manageable option is stump grinding.

Stump grinders are made in a variety of sizes, but they all work in the same way. They all utilize a rotating blade equipped with sharp teeth that strip away the wood of the trunk as the blade spins. The teeth shave away sections of the trunk until it has been completely removed. Wood chips and sawdust are all that is left, which can be recycled into mulch for flower beds or other landscaping uses. 

While some people might make use of rustic tree stumps in their yards, there are many reasons to grind them that include:

• Increasing useable space in the yard for games and activities
• Eliminating tripping hazards
• Preventing bug, insect, and termite invasions of the stump and other areas of the yard as the wood decomposes
• Stopping further growth of the roots
• Improving the yard’s overall appearance

Since the stump grinding process requires use of heavy equipment, stump grinders should only be handled by trained professionals to avoid injury to the user and property damage.

All Wood’s Tree Service employs ISA-certified arborists who can handle all of your tree trimming, removal, and stump grinding needs. Contact us today to schedule an appointment or to receive a free estimate.