Pros and Cons of Stump Grinding

From Spokane's Certified Arborist

What is stump removal?

Stump removal is the process of removing a tree stump. This can be done by digging it out of the ground.

What is stump grinding?

Stump grinding is the process of destroying a tree stump by grinding it down into small pieces. The grindings are then removed from the site.

Which option is better?

There are advantages and disadvantages to both stump removal and stump grinding. Here are some things to consider:


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Advantages of stump removal:


1 . Replanting is much easier


Removing stumps manually leaves behind a hole in the ground. This can be handy if you want to plant something in that spot or have some other use for it. You will need to fill in the hole eventually, but at least you have the option of doing so.


2 . Reduces Complications


Removing the stump entirely will provide for a much more efficient and safe area to replant in. It reduces complications with planting new trees or having existing plants be affected by stumps that are close by.


3 . Total Removal


The total stump removal will provide the best chance for your future trees and other plants to grow well. You remove the danger that it will rot or sprout versus grinding the stump that leaves the roots below the soil that can cause difficulties afterward.


Disadvantages of stump removal:


1 . Expensive


It can oftentimes prove to be very expensive, especially if there is no easy way to remove all of the roots from around the tree trunk once it has been removed. This often leads people towards stump grinding as a less costly option instead. However, depending on size, age, and health of your tree may help determine whether you need root cutters or not – this would influence cost either way – resulting in an overall higher price tag regardless.


2 . Extra Labor


Stump removal can also be physically demanding and time-consuming. Total stump removal requires a lot of physical labor by a skilled professional – with the use of heavy machinery and special tools. This is not something that can be done without proper training or equipment.


3 . Grass Growth


Additionally, traditional stump removal methods do not provide any kind of mulch or wood chips for your lawn after removing stumps from the ground which is often an important part of many people's landscaping plans. In fact, once you cut down a tree and remove it completely from your yard using this method there really isn't anything left except bare soil where the tree used to be.


4 . Duration


Removing a stump may require more effort than grinding it down. Grinding a stump, on the other hand, requires ongoing maintenance and may not be as thorough.

Advantages of stump grinding:

1 . Quick


Grinding a stump is significantly quicker than removing it by hand or with an ax. It can take minutes to grind down a small stump, whereas removing it manually could take hours depending on the size. This makes stump grinding a more desirable option for people who want a quick and easy solution.


2 . Cleaner


Stump grinding leaves very little mess behind, in comparison to when the stump is simply chopped away. There is no large hole, but just a small pile of useful wood chips. This means there is less clean-up required after the job has been completed.


3 . Safer


Stump grinding is a much safer option than removing a stump by hand. There is much less manual labor. This makes stump grinding a more sensible choice for people who are not comfortable using traditional methods of stump removal.


4 . Convenient


Grinding stumps can be done with a power stump grinder, that's why it is convenient to hire professional contractors to take care of it for you. Stump grinding is an easy process that doesn’t require a lot of time or effort, just the right equipment.


5 . Less Expensive Costs


If you don't have the funds available currently then stump removal may not be worth the cost at this time given all the benefits of stump grinding. Call us now and get FREE quotes!


Disadvantages of stump grinding


1 . Leaves Mulch


Stump grinding will leave mulch behind. This can be a problem if you have no use for it. If you truly can't find a place for it we can certainly remove it for you.


2 . Root Sprouting


When you leave the roots on the ground, you are risking the tree growing back.  The roots may send out new shoots that are difficult to deal with.

3 . Root Decay


After stump grinding, the roots are also chopped up. This can lead to decay and fungus growth in the remaining wood. If you have plans to replant the area where the stump was removed, this could be a problem.


4 . Noise


Grinding stumps can be loud, and if you live in a neighborhood with close neighbors, they may not appreciate the sound. However, this is easily remedied by doing the job during off-peak hours or using a muffler on your equipment.


Hire Stump Removal and Stump Grinding Services From A1 Tree Service


A1 Tree Service Spokane offers professional stump removal and stump grinding services. We have the experience and equipment to get the job done quickly and safely, with little disruption to your property. Contact us today for a free consultation!


FOR FAST AND QUALITY SERVICE, PLEASE CONTACT A1 TREE SERVICE TODAY!

Call us at (509) 818-4020 or contact us for your free quote.

Our service areas include Spokane, Spokane Valley, Airway Heights, Deer Park, Five Mile, Nine Mile, Mead, Colbert, Elk, Liberty Lake, Chattaroy, and anything else in the greater Spokane area. Give us a call to schedule today!

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