Any time you have trees removed from your property, you also need to determine what you're going to do with the stumps that are left behind. Most tree removal companies don't include stump removal as part of the agreement, so you'll have to either do it on your own or request stump removal from the tree removal company. If you have thought about doing it yourself, you may be surprised to find out how easy it is with the rental of a stump grinder.

Why You Shouldn't Leave The Stump Behind

Although you might not think of the stump as a big deal, they can be somewhat problematic. Tree stumps can be vulnerable to diseases as well as some pest infestations. Many of these things can spread into the root system and then through the soil, risking other trees on your property. The best way to avoid risks like these is to remove the tree stumps from your property altogether.

What You Should Know About Renting a Stump Grinder

Some equipment rental companies offer stump grinders that you can rent by the day or even by the week. Make sure you get some instruction about how to use the grinder, including things like navigating the controls and actually applying the blade to the stump. You'll probably need a vehicle with a tow hitch to get it to your house. If you don't have one, some rental companies will offer you on-site delivery and pickup service. Also, be prepared with safety gear like goggles and ear protection for while you're working.

How You Should Grind The Stump

Before you start grinding the stump itself, you need to clear out any debris from the immediate area. Otherwise, striking rocks or something similar could damage the cutting wheel on the grinder. Once the space is all cleaned up, take a chainsaw and level the stump so that it is as close to ground level as possible. This will simplify the grinding process.

Slowly roll the grinder forward to position it immediately in front of the stump. Using the hydraulic controls, lift the cutting wheel directly above the outer edge of the stump. Slowly move the cutting wheel side to side with the hydraulic controls.

Push the cutting blade progressively deeper as you work, until you are several inches into the stump. Once you move the blades several inches into the stump, it's time to lift the cutting wheel and move it sideways a little bit. This way, you progressively work your way around the diameter of the stump. This process is the most effective way to break up the tree stump.

Once the stump is fully ground, rake or scoop all of the wood chips out of the space. Fill the entire hole with fresh topsoil. Rake the topsoil surface to even it out and ensure that it fills the hole completely. From there, you can spread grass seed if you want to fill in the bare spot in the lawn. If you do spread grass seed, cover it with some straw or hay to keep the seed intact until it germinates.

As you can see from the information here, grinding your own tree stump is not as complicated as you might think. However, if you aren't comfortable with your skills handling a stump grinder, talk with the tree removal service like AAA Tree Surgeon Inc about taking care of the stumps along with the trees.

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