If you’ve recently had a tree cut down, you might be wondering what to do about the stump. Luckily, tree services provide stump grinding to restore your landscape’s neat, orderly look. If you’ve never had this service done before, learn more about what to expect with this useful guide.

What You Should Know About Stump Grinding

Why is it necessary?

While you can leave a stump to decompose naturally, this can take 20 years or more depending on the type and size of the tree. In the meantime, the leftover stump will be an obstacle for lawn mowers and yard work. Stumps also make perfect homes for ants, termites, and other pests that will then have closer access to your home.

There’s also a chance that the stump could sprout into a new tree. Stump grinding is a quick, reliable way to significantly reduce the risk of pests and eliminate regrowth.

Can the entire stump be ground?

Stumps are typically ground anywhere from 8-16 inches below the surface; however, the entire stump can be ground if you desire. Some trees, such as white oak, hickory, and walnut, have exceptionally deep roots and may need to be ground down farther to completely eliminate the risk of regrowth. Surface roots can also be ground to remove tripping hazards.

What’s the difference between grinding and removal?

While stump removal and stump grinding are often confused with one another, they’re actually distinct services for separate situations.

Grinding involves cutting a stump into wood chips in place using a specialized machine called a stump grinder. It’s preferred for areas like yards because it doesn’t disturb the surrounding soil, which makes it easier to restore a level appearance.

Stump removal describes digging around a stump and pulling it out of the ground with a tractor or other heavy vehicle. It’s typically used when clearing land for construction, in which case the appearance of the surface isn’t as important.

How will stump grinding affect my lawn?

After grinding, the area where the stump once stood will be more or less level with the surrounding area. You’ll be left with a hole full of mulch, which will settle over the following weeks before blending in with the rest of the lawn as the mulch decomposes. This mulch can also be put to use in other planted areas around your property.

If you need thorough and reliable stump grinding in the Rhinelander, WI area, turn to Todd's Tip Top Complete Tree Service. This team of knowledgeable tree service professionals offers over 30 years of experience in stump grinding and removal, tree trimming, and lot clearing. You can find out more by visiting the website. Call (715) 282-5858 to schedule an appointment.