With warm weather comes the urge to tackle outdoor projects. Whether you want to trim hedges, plant a garden, or make your yard safer for children, you might want to make removing stumps your top priority. Once the stumps are out of the way, you’ll have more room to create the landscaping of your dreams.
Reasons for Stump Removal
When it comes to aesthetic appeal, stumps are far from desirable. In addition, they can be difficult to maneuver around and can be hazardous to children, neighbors and lawn mowers. Once the stump starts to decay, it can even attract unwanted pests and insects. Sometimes, the stump just needs to go.
The Process of Stump Removal
When it comes to stump removal, the best way to do it is with a stump grinder. This handy machine can chew up stumps 6-12 inches below the ground level, utilizing a wheel equipped with sharp carbide teeth. If you have many stumps to get rid of, a stump grinder is also your most economical option.
Using a Stump Grinder
The machine comes on tracks, so you can drive it easily around the job site. It’s also easy to maneuver it through rough terrain. You can move it forward, side-to-side and in reverse. Use the key to start the engine and the levers to control the throttle and choke. Warning: always wear safety goggles when operating a stump grinder.
The handle on the right controls the cutting wheel up front. Squeeze the handle and press the button on top of the machine to engage the cutting wheel. Before using the grinder, make sure that the stump is cut as low to the ground as possible. Position the cutting wheel over the stump, slowly lower the wheels, and move back and forth across the stump in small passes.
Once you’ve finished grinding the stump down, you can cover it back up with dirt and plant grass seed over it. If you still have questions, watch this video for tips for using a stump grinder. If you’re interested in renting a stump grinder or other tool, feel free to contact us or reach out via social media.