Stump Removal Spokane

Arborist in Spokane Washington

Stump Removal Vs. Grinding: What is Better?

If you have a tree stump on your property that needs to be removed, you may be wondering whether you should choose stump removal or stump grinding. Both of these services have their pros and cons, so it can be difficult to decide which option is best for you. In this article, we will discuss the differences between stump removal and stump grinding, so that you can make an informed decision about which service is right for you.

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Stump Removal

If you want to remove a stump from your lawn, you need to use heavy machineries like excavators and bulldozers. This is because tree root systems can be very deep (up to 2 feet) and wide (double the size of the canopy). Removal is therefore invasive and requires a lot of work. Once the stump is removed, you will be left with a large hole that needs to be filled quickly.

  • Stump removal is often more expensive than stump grinding, but it does have some advantages.
  • First, since the entire stump and root system are removed, there is no chance of regrowth.
  • Second, stump removal can be less disruptive to your landscaping, since there is no need to grind down the stump.


Stump Grinding

Stump grinding employs rotating blades on a commercial grinder to turn the stump into mulch or sawdust. Even though grinding a stump doesn't fully remove it, including the roots of the tree, it's less messy than completely removing the stump and doesn't require large machines. It's also more environmentally friendly because it doesn't create a giant hole in your yard.

Stump grinding, on the other hand, is the process of grinding the tree stump down to ground level. This leaves a small hole in the ground where the stump was located.

  • Stump grinding is generally less expensive than stump removal, and it has the added benefit of being less disruptive to your landscaping.
  • Additionally, stump grinding leaves the possibility of regrowth, so if you do not want a tree to grow back in the same spot, stump grinding is not the best option.


When deciding whether to remove or grind a tree stump, it is important to consider the cost, the disruption to your landscaping, and whether or not you want the possibility of regrowth. If you have any questions about stump removal or stump grinding, please contact a professional tree service. They will assess your situation and recommend the best next steps.


Before performing stump grinding, things you need to do:

  • Go to a local utility department and have underground cables and lines marked.
  • Obtain any necessary permits.
  • Choose the right equipment for the job. A stump grinder can be rented from most home improvement stores.
  • Clear the area around the stump of any rocks, debris, or obstacles.
  • Wear eye and ear protection while operating the stump grinder.
  • Start the stump grinder and slowly lower the blade into the stump. Be sure to keep the blade level so that you don't damage the surrounding area. Grind the stump until it is about 12 inches below ground level.


The process of stump grinding:

- Using a stump grinder, score the surface of the stump in a crisscross pattern.

- Angle the grinder blade slightly and continue to score the stump until you’ve cut through the bark and into the wood.

- Work your way around the stump, making sure to keep the blade at a consistent angle.

- Once you’ve gone all the way around the stump, flip the grinder over and use the other side to finish the job.

- Use a shovel to remove any remaining debris.


Stump grinding is the preferred method of stump removal for several reasons. It’s less disruptive to your landscaping, it’s less likely to damage any nearby root systems, and it eliminates the possibility of regrowth. If you have the necessary equipment and safety gear, grinding a stump is a relatively simple process.


If you’re not sure which method is right for your situation, we can help. We’ll assess your stump and your property to determine the best course of action. We’ll also give you a free estimate so you know what to expect. Contact us today to get started.



Who we are?

At A1 Stump Removal, we specialize in stump removal and grinding. We’ve been in business for over 20 years and have served clients all over Spokane and the surrounding areas. Our business is operated by a family, and we're proud of the final product. We have the equipment and experience to safely and quickly remove any stump from your property. Contact our arborist today for a FREE estimation.


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