Sometimes trees, both large and small, need to come down. However, even after the tree is gone, there’s often an eyesore left behind, which is the stump. This leftover chunk of wood can be a tripping hazard, an obstacle for mowing, or just plain unattractive. There are a few ways to deal with a stump, and each method has its own advantages and disadvantages.
Grinding Away
Stump grinding is a popular and efficient method that utilizes a powerful machine called a stump grinder. The arborist positions the grinder over the stump. The grinding wheel then spins at high speed, and it will chew away the wood of the stump. The machine can grind the stump down below ground level, and as a result, it will leave behind a pile of wood chips.
Grinding is a fast and effective method, and it works for most types of stumps. However, it’s not perfect. The grinding process can create a lot of wood chips, which will need to be hauled away or spread around your yard as mulch. If there are underground utilities or pipes near the stump, grinding might not be a safe option. The arborist will need to locate these before starting the process. Stump grinding can also be a bit more expensive than some other removal methods.
Stump Burning
Stump burning is a less common method, but it can be a good option in certain situations. The arborist will drill holes into the stump to allow air circulation and create a good burn. They’ll also create a safe burning area around the stump to prevent the fire from spreading. Once everything is prepped, the arborist will carefully light the stump on fire. They’ll monitor the fire closely to ensure it’s contained and doesn’t get out of control.
Burning can be a relatively inexpensive way to remove a stump. However, there are some significant drawbacks. Burning a stump can create smoke and unpleasant odors that might bother your neighbors. In addition, there’s always a risk of the fire spreading, especially in dry conditions.
Slow and Steady Chemicals
Chemical stump removal involves using a chemical product specifically designed to break down wood. The arborist will drill holes into the stump and inject them with a chemical solution. The chemicals take time to work. The time period can last anywhere from several weeks to several months. The stump will gradually soften and decay. Once the stump is sufficiently softened, the arborist can remove the remaining wood with tools like axes or shovels.
Chemicals can be an effective way to remove stumps, especially for large or stubborn ones. However, this method has some limitations. It takes a long time for the chemicals to work, so this technique isn’t ideal if you need the stump removed quickly. There are also some environmental concerns. Some chemical stump removers can be harmful to the environment. Another thing to consider is that chemicals might not work effectively on all types of stumps, especially those from hardwoods.
If you are not sure which method to choose, consult with an arborist. Reach out to Princeton Tree Care for stump grinding in Princeton, NJ, and we will help you choose what is best for your situation.
