What is Tree Stump Removal?

Tree stump removal is the process of removing the remaining stump and root system left in the ground after a tree has been felled or damaged. It involves using specialised techniques and tools to clear away the entire stump and roots to a sufficient depth.

Here at Arborfield Tree Care, our specialist team of tree surgeons in Reading offer a comprehensive service to remove any and all kinds of tree stumps from your property. Whether it’s an eyesore or a tripping hazard, or even if you just want to use the space for something else, our experienced team is here to help.

Why is Complete Stump Removal Important?

Leaving all or part of a stump in place can lead to several problems:

• Stumps left protruding above ground level pose tripping hazards and are unsightly.
• Remaining roots may continue growing, potentially causing damage to sidewalks, drainage systems, foundation walls, and other landscaping.
• Decaying stumps attract carpenter ants, termites, and other pest insects. These can spread to affect surrounding trees and structures.
• Stump decay organisms and chemicals inhibit the growth of new plants in the area.
• Partial stump removal leads to re-sprouting and regrowth of the original tree species.

Proper stump removal by tree care experts prevents these issues through full extraction of the stump and roots. This leaves the area clear for new plantings and aesthetically pleasing to property owners.

Dangers of DIY Stump Removal

While homeowners may attempt do-it-yourself stump removal, this often leads to injuries from unfamiliar equipment, property damage, and incomplete stump extraction. Tree stump removal is complex and hazardous work, requiring specialised tools, training, and experience. Hazards include:

• Kickback from chainsaws and mechanical stump grinders
• Contact with underlying utilities during digging
• Structural damages to foundations, sidewalks, and walls from improper root removal
• Exposure to debris and wood dust without proper protective equipment

When is it Time to Remove a Tree Stump?

Tree stumps should be removed as soon as possible after a tree is cut down or damaged to prevent future issues. The longer a stump is left unattended, the more problematic it becomes:

• The roots will continue growing deeper and wider, making removal more difficult, costly, and time consuming.
• The stump interior and roots start decaying and attracting wood-boring insects like termites and carpenter ants. An infestation can spread quickly.
• New shoots and sprouts often emerge from leftover stump material and require continual maintenance.
• Fungi and mushrooms thrive on decaying stumps and indicate ongoing deterioration.
• The stump becomes a tripping hazard as it rots and crumbles.

Signs It’s Time for Stump Removal:

• New green shoots emerging from the stump or roots
• Sawdust or wood debris around the stump base
• Mushrooms or fungi growing on or near the stump
• Visible holes in the stump from boring insects
• The stump is starting to rot, tilt or sink into the ground
• The stump has become an eyesore and ruins the landscape aesthetics

If any of these signs are present, it’s best to have the stump removed professionally before extensive damage or safety issues arise.

Stump Removal Safety Tips:

• Keep children and pets at a safe distance during the process.
• Ensure underground utilities are clearly marked beforehand.
• Wear protective eyewear, gloves, closed-toe shoes, long sleeves and pants.
• Avoid inhaling wood dust by staying upwind of the stump grinder.
• Take care when walking around newly ground stumps before clean up.
• Supervise the process and beware of ejected wood chips and debris.
• Make sure the work area is clear of furniture, stones, wires and other hazards.
• Allow freshly ground stump material to settle before attempting cleanup.

Following these precautions will help ensure a safe experience for all throughout the stump removal process.

Alternatives to Stump Grinding:

While stump grinding is most popular for its efficiency, various options exist:

• Chemical Stump Removal: Applying chemicals accelerates decay of the stump. Roots must still be mechanically unearthed.
• Manual Digging: Shovels, pickaxes, saws and other hand tools can be used to slowly dig out as much of the stump and roots as possible. Very labor intensive.
• Mechanical Removal: Backhoes, excavators, bobcats and other heavy machinery can rip, grab and pull stumps out. Potential for landscape damage.
• Controlled Burning: Lighting a stump on fire reduces some of the visible above-ground portion. The majority remains in the soil.

Each has pros and cons, but grinding remains the quickest, most complete and neatest stump removal method in most cases.

Arborfield Tree Care’s Professional Stump Removal Process

With years of training and access to professional-grade equipment, Arborfield Tree Care’s ISA Certified Arborists safely and efficiently remove stumps of all sizes throughout the Reading area, including:

1. Inspection and Planning – We assess the stump size, location, soil type, and other factors to determine the optimal removal techniques.
2. Grinding – Our heavy-duty stump grinding machines break down stumps 12+ inches below ground level.
3. Root Removal – Excavators and root cutting machines expose and sever deep lateral roots.
4. Cleanup and Landscape Restoration – We haul away all wood debris, backfill holes, and prepare the area for new plantings.
5. Follow-up Monitoring – We re-inspect your property in case any new sprouting occurs from remnants.

Trust Arborfield Tree Care for Safe, Effective Stump Removal

Don’t let leftover stumps become a liability or eyesore. As experienced arborists, we have the tools and qualifications to remove any stump quickly while protecting your landscape. Contact our local team of tree surgeons in Reading today at 0800 074 1886 for professional tree stump removal services.