Stump Grinding – How to Get Rid of Unwanted Tree Stumps

When trees die or are cut down, they leave behind unsightly stumps. Stumps are not only a visual eyesore but can also be an obstacle for lawn or garden growth. If left unattended, they can attract unwanted pests such as termites and ants. Stump grinding is a cost effective and safe way to remove unwanted tree stumps and improve the aesthetic of your property.

Stump grinding is the process of cutting and chipping a tree stump into a woody mulch that can be used for landscaping purposes. Using a special machine called a stump grinder, the stump and its roots are ground into small wood chips that can be easily raked away or buried underground where they will decay over time. This process is much quicker than removing the stump by digging it out, and requires far less effort from the owner or landscaper.

Before beginning any stump grinding project, Burke recommends clearing the work area and assessing the site. This includes ensuring that there are no rocks, debris or other obstructed areas within or around the stump. He says that these items can damage or clog the machine’s cutting head and should be removed before operation begins. Also, he cautions against operating the grinder near power lines or other objects that could be damaged by its spinning blades.

Prior to using a stump grinder, Burke suggests wearing a face mask and protective clothing. This is important because the stump grinder can shoot bits of wood in all directions. He adds that it is best to perform this type of work with only one person at a time. He also recommends putting a safety barricade in place to protect anyone nearby from flying debris or getting hit by the spinning cutter wheel.

Another important tip is to “maintain a load on the engine” during the grinding process. This means that the operator should be utilizing the available engine and hydraulic power during the job. Burke explains that if the engine is not running at full capacity, it is possible that it will bog down or that the hydraulic pressure relief valve will stall the cutter wheel. This can result in serious injury.

Finally, Burke advises that the grinder should be set up on level ground. He warns against setting up a grinder on slopes or on any kind of embankment because it can cause the machine to roll over and potentially injure the operator. It is a good idea to have a safety team in place in case anything goes wrong during the stump grinding process.

Stumps are not only an eye sore and a nuisance, but they can also be a safety hazard for pedestrians and pets. Hiring a professional to grind your stumps can ensure that the job is done correctly and safely. This will save you time, money and energy in the long run. It can also help prevent the growth of invasive pests like termites and ants that may be attracted to the exposed wood.

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