Although removing a tree stump isn’t always necessary, many homeowners desire a more aesthetically pleasing landscape in their front or back yard. This is where stump removal comes into play. For the most part, people want to remove tree stumps simply because they look bad, while in other cases, stumps that are dead need to be removed for the betterment of the surrounding landscape. Either way, tree stump removal is not an easy job for anyone, and it requires patience, timing, tools, and technique.
Continue reading to learn the easiest way for homeowners to remove unsightly tree stumps from their beloved personal properties.
Dead Tree Stumps
When a tree stump is dead, it is a target for all types of unwanted pests. Bugs like termites, ants, beetles, spiders, and more are attracted to rotting tree bark and are common visitors to areas such as these. On top of a potential pest problem, a rotting tree trunk can take decades to decompose completely, leaving an ugly chunk of tree in the middle of your yard for years to come.
Live Tree Stumps
In the case that a tree stump is alive, there are still reasons to remove them. Homeowners grow tired of maneuvering around tree trunks while mowing or landscaping, and sometimes the roots can be to extensive causing damages to the underground piping of a home. Either way, tree trunks in this position are ready for removal. Sometimes, a person wishes to remove a tree trunk that is very close to the exterior of a house. Unfortunately, this is not recommended because it can interfere with the structural foundation of a property. In these cases, it is best to consult a professional tree care company for accurate and reliable advice.
Tree Stump Removal Basics
There are several options when it comes to removing tree trunks. These options depend on whether or not you choose to remove the tree stump yourself, or hire a professional tree care company for help. If you choose to hire a tree care company, you have chosen the least stressful and physically exerting option. They retain all the necessary licenses, tools, equipment, training, and experience to facilitate a professional-grade tree job in as little as one afternoon. They are the most reliable option for stump removal outside of a DIY approach. These companies also come insured in case an accident or mishap occurs.
If you still decide to remove the stump on your own, here are some tips for the easiest approach to tree stump removal:
☑ Dig the Stump Up
This method is not always viable because tree roots can be extensive without a person’s knowledge. If it is a younger tree, then chances are you can dig it up, however, a more mature tree can cost a lot of time, money, and stress trying to dig it up from the ground.
☑ Burn the Stump
You can set fire to a tree stump until it is completely burned to the ground, however, it is important to check with your local fire department for assistance, information, and at times, permission. It is not recommended to use this approach as a novice because outdoor fires can get out of hand and out of control, fast.
☑ Use Chemical Agents to Break Down the Stump
Many homeowners use chemicals to break down the tree stump over time. This process involves drilling holes into the trunk of the tree, then pouring the store-bought chemical tree stump remover in them. This is all the work that is involved, but it takes months for the trunk to completely die, decompose, and disintegrate.
☑ Rent a Stump Grinder
Another option is to rent a stump grinding machine. Professional tree care companies use similar machines; but their machines are often professional-grade and state-of-the-art. The grinders you can rent from your local home goods store will not be the same quality, but can still get the job done. Stump grinders work great because they properly grind up roots, deep root flares, and more. Once the trunk is ground, it is easy to remove the remaining stump pieces. A tool like this usually costs around $250 to rent.
Need Help Removing a Tree Stump in Indianapolis?
Call Timberland Tree Care at 317-348-0811 for fast and affordable Indianapolis stump removal service for your residential or commercial property. You may also request free estimates and advice, anytime! Whether you need a stump removed, or an entire lot cleared, we are the tree care professionals to trust for quality work at the right price.