After a tree comes down, you have two ways to deal with the stump. Grinding chews it down below the ground. Removal pulls out the stump and its main roots. For most Louisville yards, grinding is the faster and cheaper choice.
Stump grinding
A stump grinder cuts the stump into chips and sawdust, usually several inches below grade. The roots stay in the ground and slowly break down.
- Typical cost: about $100 to $400 for a 20-inch stump
- Little damage to the lawn around it
- Leaves wood chips you can use as mulch, or we can haul away
- Ready for topsoil and grass seed right away
Full stump removal
Removal digs or pulls out the stump and the large roots. It takes heavier equipment and leaves a hole that has to be filled.
- Typical cost: about $370 to $675 for a 20-inch stump
- Clears the spot completely
- Best when you're building, pouring concrete or planting a new tree in the same spot
Which should you choose?
- Planting grass or a garden bed: grinding
- Planting a new tree in the exact same spot: removal, or grinding off to the side
- Putting in a patio, shed or addition: removal
- On a budget or several stumps: grinding, since extra stumps on the same visit cost less
What about sprouts?
Some trees, like silver maples, sweetgums and Bradford pears, can send up shoots from the roots after grinding. Grinding deeper and mowing the shoots usually ends it within a season.
Get a quote
We'll look at your stumps and give you a written price for grinding, removal or both. Estimates are free.
Sources: Fixr: stump grinding vs. removal
Related services: Stump Grinding · Tree Removal
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