Have you recently cut down a tree in front of your home? Do you have a big ugly stump lying there in your yard that you don’t know what to do with?
Luckily there are ways you can get rid of that stump. Grinding and removing the stump are the two most popular ways.
But which method should you choose? Is stump grinding more effective than removing it?
That’s what we’ll be looking at today. In this article, we’ll be discussing stump grinding vs removal and the different benefits each method brings.
Why Should You Remove Stumps?
Just as stump removal by tree experts in Elk Grove can be done in a variety of ways, there are several reasons why people want their stumps gone.
It’s not just because stumps look ugly in front of their homes. Stumps and their underground roots can prevent nutrients from reaching other plants around them.
They also invite termites near your home while also remaining a safety hazard for children who play outside.
What is Stump Removal?
Tree removal is relatively straightforward in many people’s eyes, but removing a stump is another project altogether.
This is because some trees are extremely well-rooted into the ground. It can grow to almost 10 times the size of the trunk, so removing it is important.
What is Stump Grinding?
Stump grinding doesn’t focus on digging out every single root, but exposing them and grinding the stump into a pulp. The stump will effectively be gone and it leaves some of the smaller roots still in the ground. You won’t be able to see the roots and they’ll likely rot over time.
Stump Grinding vs Stump Removal
While both stump grinding and removal are valid methods, which one should you choose? Let’s go over the pros and cons of each so you can make a more informed decision:
Stump Grinding Pros
Stump grinding is a much faster process and not as labor-intensive as removals often are. It also doesn’t leave a big hole in front of your home.
Grinding your stump is more environmentally-friendly since it doesn’t disrupt the land around it. You can even reuse the ground stump parts for mulching.
Stump Grinding Cons
There is a possibility that sprouts might form around where your stump was. The roots are also going to decay, and the ground chips could be a hazard for children.
Stump Removal Pros
The biggest plus for stump removal is that you’ll never have to worry about roots after you remove the stump. There are practically no health hazards besides the big hole.
Stump Removal Cons
That being said, stump removal is more time-intensive and not particularly environmentally-friendly.
Stump Grinding vs Removal Cost
How much you pay for stump grinding or removal will depend on your contractor’s rates.
Generally speaking, stump removal costs between $370 and $600 depending on the size of the stump. Grinding costs anywhere between $75 and $400.
Keep in mind that costs can be below or above those estimates. The topology of your area, the root system, and the tree’s age can all affect the end price.
Choose the Right Stump Process for You!
Whether you choose stump grinding or removal depends on your specific needs and situation. Use this article to find the right method for you!
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