We get a lot of questions about tree stump grinding from homeowners, so we thought we’d share with you the answers to some of the most common questions. Hopefully, these will answer your questions too but if there’s something we haven’t addressed here, just send us an Email or give us a call at (913) 522-4938 – we’re happy to speak with you about stump grinding any time!
- I’ve just had a tree cut down. Why should I grind the stump away?
- There are many reasons to remove a tree stump – aesthetics, you don’t want to constantly mow around it, you want to avoid termites and ants near your house, you want to plant a new tree, you don’t want the stump sprouting into a new tree…
- Can you remove the entire stump?
- This is dependent on size, type and location of the tree. We frequently grind clear through the stump.
- What about all the surface roots – can you grind those away too?
- Yes, depending on the scope of the project, we will completely remove the exposed surface roots. When possible, we may utilize a Sawzall (hand power saw) to hand cut these roots to minimize lawn damage. We are the only company in town providing this level of service!
- How deep do you grind a stump?
- We normally grind down approximately 6-8 inches below grade so there is ample soil depth to grow grass. There is no benefit to grinding deeper although we frequently grind clear through the stumps.
- Can I plant a new tree in the same place as the old stump?
- Generally speaking, this is typically not recommended but we will grind through the entire stump when possible.
- How long does it take to grind a tree stump?
- Depending on size and scope of the project, it can take between 1-4 hours. We have a very powerful, commercial machine that can remove any size stump. You can see our grinding videos on our Facebook Page or YouTube Channel.
- How do you price stump grinding?
- We measure the widest, exposed portion of the stump above ground at the base. If there is a mound surrounding the stump (dirt or grass), we generally recommend including this in the measurement if you would like the ground level for replanting grass.
- Do you do a package discount for grinding many stumps at once?
- We sure do.
- Am I left with a big hole when you’re finished?
- We push all the dirt and chips back into the hole so there isn’t a hazardous hole in your yard. Some larger stumps will actually leave a mound of chips behind. Please see our work with before and after pictures on Google and the Heartland Stump Removal Facebook page.
- Will tree stump grinding damage my lawn/landscape?
- Not when it’s done properly. We have a machine that has extra tires to minimize the pressure on a lawn. We use a combination of screens/shields and tarps to protect your lawn, landscaping and personal property. We take pride in leaving your lawn cleaner than we found it.
- Can I use the mulch from the stump grinding?
- Yes, depending on the size of the stump there is a mix of dirt and woodchips which composts into rich topsoil in about a year or two depending on moisture levels. These chips also work great as mulch in vegetable and flower gardens.
- Can your machine fit through our gate?
- Our machine was specially designed to fit through a 36-inch gate – that’s a standard-sized gate or opening so we can probably get through your gate without any problems.
- I have stumps on a hill. Is it possible to grind them?
- Yes, in most cases we are able to remove stumps on a hill.
- Can you get your machine into an area that has limited access?
- We’re pretty creative and have the equipment to get nearly anywhere. We’ve even used cranes to lift the stump grinder into position up to 100’ away from a driveway.
- Can you grind a tree stump that’s next to a wall, sidewalk, foundation, or other structure?
- Yes, but we need to be cautious and sometimes we can’t grind quite as much of the stump or roots because of the infrastructure. This is where experience plays a big part in knowing just how far to go and when it’s not safe to do it.
- How long does it take a tree stump to rot away if I leave it alone?
- It really depends on five things: size, species, moisture levels (in shade vs sun), insect activity, and structure of the stump. For example, a 20” oak tree stump in a sunny yard might take 18 to 20 years to decompose naturally, whereas the same stump in a shady moist environment might take 12 -15 years to rot away. Just realize that it’s not a quick (or pretty) process.
- There are fungus/conks/mushrooms on my tree stump. Is that a problem?
- This is a normal part of the decomposition process as the wood breaks down. Obviously some of these can be poisonous so if there are house pets or children in close proximity you might want to consider grinding the stump.
- If I grind away my tree stump will it eliminate the termites and ants?
- While we can’t guarantee that all termites and ants will disappear, grinding will significantly reduce and probably eliminate those insects since what they were using as a home is now gone and starting to decompose into the soil.
- Is tree stump grinding mess/noisy/dangerous?
- Yes on all counts. We have many years of experience and we use several different safeguards, from plastic mats to commercial grade screens that can stop a flying rock from being a dangerous projectile. Furthermore, we take safety serious and wear the proper Personal Protective Equipment such as safety glasses and helmets with a full face shield. We are fully insured and licensed specifically for stump grinding.
- Do you call dig safe to have utilities located?
- YES!!! It is a Federal Mandate to call Dig Safe (811). It is illegal to dig without calling Dig Safe (811) and homeowners and contractors will be found liable for damage. Some fiber optic lines can cost upwards of 100K! Dig Safe generally takes 3 days to mark the utilities and we take care of this for the home owner. Every contractor must pull their own dig safe ticket even if utilities were recently marked from a different project.
- Do you carry insurance?
- ABSOLUTELY! We carry 1 millions dollars in insurance to protect ourselves and homeowners. We believe in doing things one way – the right way!