If you need to remove a tree, you'll still usually be left with a stump after the tree has been cut down. There are two ways to deal with this: either complete stump removal or stump grinding. A complete removal removes the stump and the roots altogether. A grinding simply grinds the stump down below the ground and covers it over.
Stump Grinding Is Faster and Cheaper
A stump grinding is the faster and cheaper method of removing a stump. In many areas, a stump removal can be twice as expensive than a stump grinding or even more. Stump removals require additional tools, as well. A stump grinding can usually be achieved through the use of a single grinding tool, which can be rented from most home improvement stores. Stump removals require additional power to physically rip the stump out of the earth.
Stump Grinding Is Less Likely to Disrupt Surrounding Areas
There are times when a tree can become interlaced with another tree's roots, especially if it is very close to other trees. Tree roots can also grow deceptively far underground. If you have other trees and plants that you don't want to disturb, removing the stump entirely could cause damage to them. Stump grinding will not disrupt these roots, thereby avoiding any damage.
Stump Grinding Doesn't Produce a Hole
In addition to potentially disrupting root systems (or even surrounding pipes), a stump removal generally leaves behind a very large hole that needs to be filled. Grinding, on the other hand, creates a by-product of chipped wood which will eventually compost into the ground. Once a stump has been ground down, the grass will usually be able to grow over it as it will be covered in mulch. When a stump has been removed, dirt may need to be purchased in order to fill the resulting hole.
Stump Grinding Can Be DIY
A stump removal often has to be completed by professionals. Though stump grinding is faster when done by professionals, it's also a fairly simple process because it doesn't require power tools. Most trees can be removed in an evening even by those who have not done it before.
There are also some negatives associated with stump grinding. Stump grinding could ultimately lead to a resurgence of the tree, though this is rare. It also may leave any roots that could potentially interfere with things underground. A professional tree service can further advise on whether grinding or removal is the preferred method.
For more information, contact local professionals like Tidd Tree.
