Old stumps are trip hazards, mower hazards, and a home for carpenter ants and fungus. Some species, like Callery pear and silver maple, keep sending up sprouts from the stump and roots for years. Grinding takes the stump below the surface so it can break down and the ground can be used again.
Grinding is also the first step in getting the spot back into lawn. Since we also handle turf, we can backfill, grade and seed the area, so the job doesn’t end with a pile of wood chips in a hole.
- You’re mowing around it or have hit it with the mower
- It’s sprouting new shoots every spring
- You want to plant a new tree, flower bed or lawn in the spot
- It’s attracting ants, termites or fungus near the house
- It’s in the way of a fence, patio, shed or driveway project
- There are several old stumps left from previous removals
The whole job, not just the cut.
- Grinding below grade, to a depth that suits what’s going in next
- Grinding of exposed surface roots near the stump on request
- Your choice of leaving the grindings as mulch or cleaning them out
- Backfill with topsoil, grading and seeding when you want lawn back
- Utility locates through Ohio811 before we grind
From first look to final rake.
- 1
Count and measure
Send a photo or have us come by. We look at the diameter, height, roots and access, including gate width for the grinder.
- 2
Call in utility locates
Ohio law requires notice to Ohio811 before digging, and we request locates so buried lines are marked before we start.
- 3
Grind it down
The stump and main root flare are ground below grade. Nearby beds and siding are shielded from flying chips.
- 4
Finish the spot
Grindings are left or hauled, and the hole is filled and leveled. Add seeding and it can blend back into the lawn.
Straight answers on cost.
Every property is different, so we price after we’ve seen the job. Estimates are free, and you’ll know the full scope and price before anything starts. These are the things that move the number:
- Stump diameter, measured at the ground
- The number of stumps, since several in one visit costs less per stump
- Hardwood vs. softwood, and how much of the root flare is exposed
- Access, including gate width, slopes, and distance from where we can park
- Whether you want grindings hauled away and the spot backfilled and seeded
Common questions
How deep do you grind?
Below grade, deep enough for grass or a new planting. If you’re putting in a new tree, footing or hardscape in the same spot, tell us and we’ll go deeper.
What happens to the roots?
The main root flare is ground with the stump. Larger roots out in the yard stay underground and decay over time. Exposed surface roots can be ground too if they’re in the way.
Can I plant a new tree in the same spot?
You can, but it’s usually better to offset it a few feet so the new tree isn’t growing into decaying wood chips. We’re happy to suggest a spot for your tree-promise tree.
Why would a stump keep sprouting?
Some species send up suckers from the stump and roots after the tree comes down. Grinding the stump below grade removes most of the energy source, and any remaining sprouts can be mowed or cut until they stop.