Removing a tree stump is a much more complicated process
than cutting down a tree. For this reason it is often a separate cost in the tree
removal service. A lot of people often have old tree stumps in their yard
because of this. With the right techniques and equipment, tree stump removal is
possible. After tree removal, it often doesn’t make sense to leave the tree
stump standing there like an eye sore. It gets worse when weeds and other
parasitic plants start growing on them. These tree stumps could be taking up
valuable space that you can use for other things. When they are camouflaged by
grass they become tripping hazards.
Assessment
The tree stump removal technician will first assess the tree
stump to determine which technique should be applied in the removal process.
Some tree stumps are easy to remove while others can cause quite a headache. This
assessment enables the technician to prepare ahead for the removal process. The
age and size of the tree are the greatest determinants of how easy or difficult
it will be to remove the tree stump.
Stump removal techniques
Some of the techniques used include:
·
Grinding is one of the fastest ways to get rid
of tree stumps. A grinder is a heavy-duty machine that files down the tree
stump into the sand. The stump removal technician starts by using a shovel to
clear any rocks away from the tree stump. They use a chainsaw to cut away the
tree stump and get it to ground level. The grinder is then used over the
remaining bit of the stump to get it at least 4 inches below ground level. This
dangerous piece of equipment should be left to the professionals.
·
Uprooting the tree stump is also another option,
especially when you want to rid the area of the roots of the tree too. The
stump removal crew will use chain saw to remove the top portion of the trunk
leaving enough of it to use as leverage for pulling the stump out of the
ground. The crew will then use shovels and picks to reveal the roots around the
stump. Pushing the stump can also help
reveal more roots. After cutting the major roots using an axe, they will then
wrap a chain around the trunk connected to a four-wheel-drive vehicle to pull
it out of the ground. By slowly pulling forward and reversing, the stump will
wiggle out of place.
·
Chemical stump removal reduces the amount of
manual labor involved in the tree removal process. The only disadvantage is
that it takes quite a long time for the potassium nitrate to soften the stump
up, about six weeks. The potassium nitrate is poured into holes drilled inside
the tree stump. After the stump becomes spongy, you can use an axe to break it
up. This makes for a great DIY project, as there are no dangerous tools or
heavy equipment involved. Fuel oil or kerosene can further soften up the stump
for easy removal.
Posted By: All American Tree Pro http://allamericantreepro.net
