What does tree stump removal entail?
Stump removal, commonly known as grubbing, consists of mechanically shredding the stump of a tree, including the trunk that protrudes from the ground and the underground trunk where the roots connect.
Why remove a tree stump?
There are several good reasons to have your tree stump removed.
Insect proliferation
Insects are attracted to tree stumps because they provide shelter and food. Among these insects, there’s the destructive carpenter ant, which may be attracted to the stump and then move towards your home to cause damage to its structure.
Pests and undesirable animals
The insects attracted to your stump also serve as food for animals like skunks, raccoons and more. If your tree stump attracts insects, the insects in turn will attract unwanted animals that cause other negative consequences.
Land subsidence or ground sinking
If the stump isn’t removed, its roots will decompose and produce a void in the soil that eventually causes subsidence or sinking. This is a factual safety risk. Someone could sink his or her foot into it and get hurt.
Lost space
The stump represents an obstacle and a loss of space on your property. Have it grubbed to recover this area.
When should you stump a tree?
Summer is the best time to remove a stump. Absence of water or snow accumulation means the ground won’t be soft and mechanical equipment won’t damage your property.
How much does tree stump removal cost?
The cost of stump removal varies according to several factors; mainly the size of the stump and its location. The larger the stump, the longer the hours to remove it. Location and accessibility are also very important. If the stump is closer to the road, it takes less time to get there with the equipment, and also less time to dispose of the chips. If we have to drive through a narrow passage or climb several steps, the work will take longer. The price of stump removal (grubbing) varies from about $100 for a small, easy to access stump, to $1000 for a large, less accessible tree stump.
Our stump removal process
- Visit your home for a free evaluation of your needs and determining costs;
- Sign and accept the quote and establish deadlines for completion of the work;
- Secure the premises and begin work;
- Shred your tree stump by using a machine designed for this purpose;
- Fill the hole with wood chips and soil;
- Dispose of excess chips in an environmentally friendly manner;
- Clean work areas to leave unblemished grounds.
Permits for grubbing work (stump removal)
Contrary to other tree services, grubbing doesn’t require a permit.
However, it’s important to call info excavation to make sure that there are no cables or pipes buried near the stump, before doing the work.
Alternative methods for stump removal
The internet will give you all sorts of ideas on DIYs, but be aware of the risks. A common recommendation is to drill holes in your stump, to then pour chemicals inside. These chemicals seep into your soil and contaminate it. Also, decomposition will take a long time and meanwhile, your stump will attract insects and unwanted animals.
Frequently asked questions
Can we destroy the tree stump with sodium chlorate?
This method for destroying a tree stump is very slow, contaminates the soil and doesn’t necessarily work. You can unfortunately expect regrowth on your stump. Mechanical grubbing is truly the most reliable option.
Can we burn a tree stump?
Trying to eliminate a tree stump with fire can be long but most importantly, dangerous. You risk fire spreading throughout the roots. Mechanical grubbing is the safest option.
Can you use bleach to kill a tree stump?
This method for destroying a tree stump is very slow, contaminates the soil and doesn’t necessarily work. You can unfortunately expect regrowth on your stump. Mechanical grubbing is truly the most reliable option.
