How does stump grinding work?

If you’ve been left with an unsightly and hazardous tree stump after having a tree cut down, you may be interested in having it removed. The removal of a tree stump is usually carried out using a process known as stump grinding, which involves grinding it down into small chips until it is gone. Read on to find out how stump grinding in Essex works.

What is stump grinding?

Stump grinding is the process used to remove tree stumps from domestic or commercial landscapes. A very powerful tool called a stump grinder chips away at the stump using a rotating carbide cutting disc. The operator will guide the blade over the stump, grinding it up until it’s taken down below ground level.

There are various types of stump grinders, and they come in many different sizes to meet the demands of the task at hand. Whilst some are as small as a lawnmower, there are others as big as a truck. The size of the stump grinder used will depend on how big the stump that needs to be removed is.

What happens to the wood chips?

You can expect to be left with a huge pile of wood chips after stump grinding has been carried out. What you do with them is up to you, although many people opt to push them down into the open hole that’s been created during the stump grinding process. By putting the wood chips into the hole, you can level off the area, helping to make it safer and reduce potential injury should someone happen to walk over it. Alternatively, you could use them as mulch on-site or add them to your green waste.

Who can carry out stump grinding

Although it’s possible to hire a stump grinder and perform the task yourself, this usually isn’t advisable. Stump grinders are extremely powerful tools, and if you lack the required expertise, serious injury could easily occur. As well as the risk of stones, rocks and debris flying around when stump grinding, the cutting disc poses a major threat. These carbide discs can cut into thick tree stumps, which means that they can essentially cut into anything else. Stump grinders have caused a number of deaths over the years.

As a result of the hazards presented by stump grinders, a better option is to hire a professional tree surgeon who is experienced in operating them. At Essex Tree Brothers, we can remove stumps of all sizes in a safe and effective manner. We use the correct stump grinding methods set out by the HSE and we always ensure we wear protective gear, including safety helmets, goggles, and gloves.

For stump grinding in Essex, get in touch with our friendly team today. Call us on (01245) 955 117 or (01621) 484306 or send us a message via the website. We’re on hand to tell you more about our stump grinding service and provide you with a competitive quote for the work you require.