Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's) on Stump Grinding

What is Stump Grinding?

Stump grinding is a process using a machine to shave away a stump from its point of origin, The Machine is often heavy and runs a high-torque motor. It has very hard and robust teeth that chew away at the grain and into the soil profile to remove all remains of the stump.

Providing the full removal of the stump (the heart of the tree) is removed everything surrounding it, roots, and shoots will die and begin to rot.

Roots require moisture and adequate airflow to rot. This is why stumps are often seen near or below ground as they are protected from elements of airflow and moisture to keep them alive preventing them to dry out.

A stump requires to be killed off to start the rotting stage. Adequate airflow is required to dry out the stump, Stumps close to the ground can take over 3- 10 years due to their protection from airflow and being fed by moisture keeping them alive. Some Stumps may look dry and cracked on the surface once cut open being completely healthy and alive. The Decay Process will depend on the environment, location of the stump, climate, and type of wood, and generally lower the stump is quicker it can rot.

Doing it yourself, You’re not protected by insurance attempting stump grinding, and damage around the area from tools or machines impacting property or services you will be left with the damage bill. It will take you longer, If your use hand tools to remove a stump it often takes 10x-30x longer than what it would take a stump grinder which can quickly and efficiently remove the stump and roots allowing you to mulch for your garden and a surface you can replant into. If you hire a machine, you’re liable for any damages through your hire agreement with sets of teeth exceeding several hundred dollars or damaged teeth pockets, cowling, or broken belts from an overloading machine. You also need to be able to set aside time to pick up, learn to operate, clean equipment, and deliver which can consume a whole day.

What can be done with mulch from stump grinding?

Mulch can be repurposed onto other garden beds or can be removed or used to fill the old hole from the stump. Larger stumps that produce pure wood chips can be used as kindling and are great for starting small outdoor fire pits.

Complete stump removal is removing the whole stump and root system, this can require benching the grinder into the soil to dig up to half a meter deep depending on the type of timber. Ensuring we remove all pieces of timber as part of the stump so regrowth is not possible. Tree Roots need to also be considered in Complete removal. Without Full stump removal, you can be left with a stump growing underground that will reshoot. Causing roots to continue growing bursting pipes or damage to foundations.

Stump grinding machines use teeth to chew away timber and soil in the grinding process. The teeth are made of tungsten which is extremely strong that prevent high wearing however due to their characteristics very brittle which can result in shattering effects when in contact with rocks metal or concrete. This can lead to hundreds of dollars worth of damage by replacing teeth in the grinding process. Larger stumps often require larger grinders which can save hours compared to smaller grinders price of the machine reflects this. Smaller machines take longer however can access areas larger ones cannot provide you to remove stumps in any location. just the time it takes to grind will vary.

Stump Grinders come in all shapes and sizes, and power efficiencies. Tight Access stump grinding is the ability of access to get to the stump required for removal, we may need to use, a crane, ramps, specialized rigging, or handheld grinders to remove some of the hardest-to-reach stumps.

The stump grinder will finely chop the stump into fine mulch which can be used on garden beds or backfilled in the hole that the stump had lived in.

Once the stump grinding work has been completed, how can I pay?

Our Operators can take Card payments in the field, or bank transfers can be processed upon completion.

We have a minimum charge which covers operating costs, and travel. Our average jobs are between $300-800 depending on the size and type of stump, its location/access requirements. Price is dependent on the travel distance from the business depot, the access to the stump, the type of tree, stump size, debris around the stump eg rocks, Services, and how many stumps require removal distance between them on the job. Most companies charge a minimum charge, for even the smallest stump. Overall Stumps can vary from $200- several thousand dollars.

The machine can make quick work to remove the stumps, time is dependent on material and if we may need to chase roots. We do not put a time limit on our service, as we ensure we take all care to prevent the risk of damage or excess mess when working near houses, around pools etc.

Yes, we are fully insured. We have a public liability insurance up to $10,000,000.

No requirement for you to be home, we just need access to the stumps, we recommend that pets are kept in a separate area while we are grinding onsite.

What access do I need to remove tree stumps?

Stump Grinding is often cheaper, the larger the stump the more difficult it is to find someone with a large excavator to be able to remove it. This also causes a lot of damage to the excavator so this is many reasons why most stump removal is through the grinding process.

We have a minimum charge which covers operating costs, and travel. Our average jobs are between $300-800 depending on the size and type of stump, its location/access requirements. Price is dependent on the travel distance from the business depot, the access to the stump, the type of tree, stump size, debris around the stump eg rocks, Services, and how many stumps require removal distance between them on the job. Most companies charge a minimum charge, for even the smallest stump. Overall Stumps can vary from $200- several thousand dollars.

The machine can make quick work to remove the stumps, time is dependent on material and if we may need to chase roots. We do not put a time limit on our service, as we ensure we take all care to prevent the risk of damage or excess mess when working near houses, around pools etc.

We will chase the stump as deep as required for its full removal, limited to the ability of access and services.

A tree stump can be a safety hazard, a tripping hazard, and can also attract pests and insects. Removing a tree stump also helps to improve the appearance of your yard.

Can I replant a tree in the same spot after stump grinding?

Yes, you can replant a tree in the same spot after stump grinding. The soil will need to be properly prepared to ensure the new tree can grow properly.

Clear the area around the stump and remove any obstacles that could interfere with the stump grinding process.

Stump grinding can be done on most types of trees, including hardwood and softwood trees. It is also the preferred method of removing bamboo rhizomes.

Yes, stump grinding can be done on a slope, but it can be more challenging and may require specialized equipment.

It is possible for stump grinding to damage underground utilities, so it is important to locate and mark them before beginning the process.

Is stump grinding environmentally friendly?

Stump grinding is a more environmentally friendly option than other methods of tree removal, such as burning or using chemicals.

Stump grinding can be noisy, especially when using larger equipment, so it is recommended to inform neighbors that could show concern before starting the process.

Stump grinding can be done around a swimming pool, but it may require specialized equipment due to their weight and ensure to cover it up to prevent excess debris that is unwanted in the pool.

It is recommended to remove plants that could alter the access of the stump grinding machine, they can be replanted after the stumps have been removed from your desired location.

Your decision to work with us provides you with our personal guarantee that you're completely satisfied, any issues with grinds we will come back and make it right.