How long has that unsightly tree stump been in your yard? You might not think about it often, but a large tree stump can be risky for your health and home. That stump is hiding dangers underneath the surface – and above. Large tree stump removal is the best way to safeguard your family and property from dangers like trip and fall accidents, wild animals, insect infestations, and more!
When you’ve decided to start tree stump removal, calling a professional is the first step toward a safer home. You may believe that removing a large tree stump is simple, but an experienced professional can minimize collateral damage, ensure complete removal, and do so quickly and efficiently! Call Doug’s Tree Service to see this kind of experience and professionalism at work!
How to Remove a Large Stump?
If you are a brave DIY-er, you have plenty of options for removing a stump – but be warned, some methods can pose risks to your house and property. Depending on the size of a stump and the age of the tree, it might be a necessity to find a stump removal service, but if you are determined to do this yourself, here are your options:
Help Nature Along
One of the simplest options is to use a nitrogen-rich solution like fertilizer or stump removal chemicals like potassium nitrate or Epsom salt. Drilling holes down the center of the stump and then pouring a solution of these chemicals into the holes will ensure complete penetration of the stump. These chemicals can aid rotting, bacteria, fungal networks, and other decomposition as they eat away at the stump and leftover root system. This can accelerate the process, but if you’re dealing with a sizable stump, this could take some time! Note that overuse of chemicals can harm the surrounding grass and ground!
Burn the Stump
Burning a stump is illegal in many areas due to the danger it poses if burning is not performed properly, so check your local regulations first! The best way to ensure an even and regular burn is to clear all flammable material from nearby, dig out the perimeter of the stump (expose the roots!), drill holes at least 10 inches deep in the top, and use additional scrap wood and charcoal to create a tent-like structure that will help focus the heat and burn the stump once lit. This process can take upwards of 24 hours and needs to be monitored at all times to prevent the spread of flames, so bring a team with you so you can trade off watch duties.
Dig Out the Stump
Digging out the stump is the most straightforward and safe method but also the most exhausting and time-consuming. You will want to have some equipment to do this well:
- Shovel or Spade
- Saw, Axe, or Hatchet
- Safety Glasses
- Work Gloves
- Other Protective Gear
Dig around the stump and expose as much of the root network as possible. You may need to dig fairly deep around the larger roots so you can cut them. Once you’ve removed the stump, you can start patching the hole left behind with topsoil or loam – don’t forget to tamp the ground flat!
Many people attempt to remove stumps by towing them out with heavy-duty trucks and chains – this is not ideal because of the danger posed by snapping chains, shattering wood, or the sudden shift of your vehicle when – and if – the stump is pulled free. And remember that a stump flying at your truck after getting pulled free is very likely!
As an alternative to the exhausting work of digging, dangerous chemicals and flames, and high-risk towing, consider hiring a professional stump removal service who can grind your stump to pulp within a few minutes!
Grind the Stump to Saw Dust
If you don’t want to wear yourself out or risk your safety over a simple stump, then the best method of ridding your yard of a large tree stump is to turn to a removal service. The most common method that professionals use is to employ a stump grinder. This heavy piece of equipment can grind the wood down, providing you with the option of using the newly made mulch around your landscaping or allowing us to take it away ourselves!
Calling a professional might not be your first instinct if you are used to taking care of your lawn needs yourself, but remember that the time and effort you save, alongside the safety experience provides, will save you money in multiple ways.
What Are the Risks of Leaving a Large Stump on Your Property?
While you might be tempted to let nature take its course, you should be aware that a large stump on your property can pose many dangers to your health, home, and happiness.
Damaging Property
Did you down the tree because of concerns over property damage? Tree roots can break foundations and wreak havoc on buildings if left to their own devices, but the stump left over can be just as harmful to your property. When mowing, leftover roots and stumps can damage your mower’s blades, the mower itself, or any other lawn care device.
Tripping Hazard
When you want to spend time outside with your family or are looking to entertain guests in the yard, you want to be certain nobody will trip over exposed roots and wood. Properly removing a stump leaves a safer area for you to enjoy! Tripping can be painful, but landing on a tree stump can lead to a visit to the hospital!
Attracting Pests
Your home’s wood is treated to help prevent infestations of termites, ants, or other insects – but a large tree stump can foster a thriving community of pests that will eventually find their way into your house. Even mice can set up a home base in the nooks and crannies of a stump before finding their way into your home and causing damage or spreading disease!
Killing Grass
If you have noticed any bare patches of ground or dead grass near your tree stump, don’t be alarmed – this is reversible and a common part of the rotting process. Fungi and other decomposers can soak up the nitrogen and water, preventing your lawn from achieving that gorgeous green you want- get rid of the stump, and your lawn will recover.
Call Doug’s Tree Service and Say Goodbye to Unsightly Stumps!
If you’ve dropped a tree and are left with an ugly stump, or a storm has left you with even more cleanup, call Doug’s Tree Service to get your property cleaned up and beautified! We service Lancaster, York, and all of the surrounding areas of PA, ensuring your home and property stay safe, healthy, and gorgeous.
We are certified arborists and can trim or remove trees and stumps safely. With professionalism and experience at your service, you can return to using your space as you want ASAP! Call us today to get started!
