Tree removal isn’t truly finished until the stump is gone. That leftover base of the trunk may not seem like a big deal at first—but over time, it can become an eyesore, a safety risk, and even a home for pests. That’s where stump grinding comes in.
Stump grinding is the fastest, cleanest, and most effective way to get rid of a tree stump without digging up your yard.
What Is Stump Grinding?
Stump grinding is the process of using a specialized machine to shred a tree stump down into wood chips. Unlike full stump removal—which involves digging out the entire root system—grinding removes the visible part of the stump and some of the roots, usually 4–12 inches below ground.
The result? A smooth, level area ready for new grass, landscaping, or even replanting.
Why You Should Remove Tree Stumps
Leaving stumps in your yard might seem harmless, but they come with several downsides:
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🪵 They attract pests like termites, ants, and beetles
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🧱 They’re tripping hazards, especially for kids and pets
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🌱 They cause new shoots to grow, creating unwanted small trees
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🦠 They can spread disease to nearby trees if they’re rotting
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🏡 They lower curb appeal and make lawn care more difficult
In short, that old stump can quickly turn into a problem—not just a piece of wood in the ground.
How Stump Grinding Works (Step by Step)
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Assessment – The arborist inspects the size, location, and depth of the stump.
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Clearing the Area – Rocks and debris around the stump are removed for safety.
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Grinding – A rotating blade grinds the stump into small chips layer by layer.
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Depth Control – Most grinders reach 4 to 12 inches below grade.
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Cleanup – The wood chips can be used as mulch, or hauled away if preferred.
Stump Grinding vs. Stump Removal
| Feature | Stump Grinding | Full Stump Removal |
|---|---|---|
| Root Removal | Partial | Complete (roots and all) |
| Yard Impact | Minimal | Major (large hole left behind) |
| Time & Cost | Faster & More Affordable | Slower & More Expensive |
| Ideal For | Residential Yards | Construction Sites or Replanting |
Grinding is the preferred choice for homeowners, while full removal is usually reserved for major construction projects or replanting large trees in the same spot.
Cost of Stump Grinding
The average stump grinding cost depends on several factors, including:
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Size of the stump
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Type of tree (hardwood vs. softwood)
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Accessibility of the location
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Number of stumps
Here’s a rough estimate:
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Small stump (under 12 inches): $60 – $120
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Medium stump (12–24 inches): $100 – $250
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Large stump (over 24 inches): $250 – $500+
Some companies also charge by the inch (typically $2–$4 per inch of stump diameter).
What Happens After Grinding a Stump?
Once the stump is ground, you’re left with a pile of wood chips. You can:
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Use them as mulch in garden beds
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Fill in the hole and sow grass seed
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Have them hauled away by your tree service company
If you plan to replant a tree, you may need to remove more roots or amend the soil, as old wood takes time to break down and may affect the growth of a new tree.
Benefits of Hiring a Professional
While stump grinders are available for rent, hiring a professional is safer and faster—especially for large or hard-to-reach stumps.
Professionals offer:
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Proper safety equipment
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Deep grinding capability
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Insurance and experience
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Full cleanup service
DIY stump grinding can lead to property damage, injuries, or poor results if done without the right tools and knowledge.
Conclusion
Stump grinding is more than just cleanup—it’s a smart, efficient way to finish your tree removal project and get your yard back in shape. Whether you want to plant grass, build a patio, or simply avoid future problems, grinding that old stump is worth the investment.
