How to Remove a Tree Stump with a Grinder
Looking to get rid of tree stumps in your yard? There are different ways to get it done, like digging them out by hand or burning them if it’s permissible in your area, but using a stump grinder is a simpler and more effective method as well as a fairly quick and inexpensive procedure. Learn how to remove a tree stump with a grinder in this video by The Home Depot:
You can get a stump grinder and trailers to transport the equipment needed for the job at your local home improvement tool rental center. In addition to the stump grinder, you will need a chain saw, shovel, hard hat, ear plugs or hearing protection, topsoil, mulch, work boots or non-skid safety shoes, and gloves.
It typically takes of a couple of hours to remove a small tree stump. More time will be needed if you have large stumps to tackle. Recruit someone to assist you if you’re not comfortable working alone. Be sure to protect yourself when working; wear a long sleeve shirt, pants, work boots and safety gear. Follow all other safety precautions provided by your manufacturer.
1. Trim the stump closer to the ground with a chainsaw. This will help speed up the process which is especially convenient for large stumps. Also, dig up rocks around the base of the tree stump as they can dull or damage the teeth on the grinder’s cutting wheel. Replace any dull or missing parts as needed.
2. Drive the grinder close to the stump and start the engine following your manufacturer’s guidelines. To properly operate the machine, always stand at the control panel near the rear. Also, avoid using it in the presence of children and pets, flammable liquids, gas, dust, and at night when your visibility can be impaired. Raise the grinder wheel a few inches above the stump’s front edge with the brake lever. The engine throttle should be in the slow position. Then start the spinning cutting wheel. Lower the wheel a couple inches into the stump and gently nib it away with side by side movements.
3. Raise the wheel and advance the machine a few inches. Repeat the process until you have dug a few inches into the ground and removed the stump. For natural areas, you’ll likely dig about four inches into the ground. Dig a couple inches more if your stump is an a grassy area.
4. Be sure to dig up any roots sprouting from the stump. You may need to accelerate the engine throttle to fully accomplish this.
5. When shutting off the machine, you’ll likely be instructed to lower the engine speed. Turn off the emergency switch. Next, set the park brake. Shut off the engine and safely transport it away from the work area.
6. The last step is to cover and treat the area. Simply spread and rake the cut wood chips over the hole in your natural space. Do the same with a little mulch. For grassy areas, spread and fill the hole with the cut wood chips, then add top soil to help reduce soil compaction. Tap down and lightly rake the soil when the hole is completely filled. Then spread and rake an even layer of grass seed into the soil. Finally, water the area. Monitor and maintain the area just as you would treat the rest of your lawn.
