FAQs

Why should I grind my old or freshly cut tree stumps?

You should grind your old or freshly cut tree stumps and tree roots for general real estate property appearance and upkeep. You don’t always have to grind a stump. They will decay over time after the tree is cut. The natural process of a stump decaying can take 5 to 10 years or more, depending on the type of tree and the conditions in your area.

But, in the case that you do want to grind the stump, after we are finished, you will be able to plant grass, other trees, or generally landscape the area where the stump was present as soon as we are finished removing the tree stump and tree roots.

What can happen if I do not grind old or freshly cut tree stumps?

Dead stumps are breeding grounds for all sorts of bugs that eat wood, like termites carpenter ants, beetles, mosquitoes, and roaches.

Can tree stumps left ungrinded cause property damage?

Yes, live tree root systems can and will damage foundations, sidewalks, driveways, and septic systems. Live tree root systems from old tree stumps are able to keep growing. The tree’s roots start off small and find their way into cracks and small holes in anything they are able to reach.

When we grind the tree stump and subsequently the tree roots, we are able to stop the roots from continued growth. With tree stump grinding, we are able to safely get within several inches of foundations and other permanent structures without damaging them. Grinding the tree stump and tree roots ensures they will not damage anything else in the proximity.

For tree roots, the goal is to grind them to a point under the soil so that they will no longer grow or create sprouts, so you can add grass or mulch over them.

Is leaving a tree stump and tree roots in the soil a safety concern if not grinded?

Stumps can be safety concerns in yards, walkways, playgrounds, and near parking areas. Anytime tree stumps or tree roots are in an area of concern, the safest and most efficient way of dealing with old or freshly cut tree stumps is to have them ground. We have grinded countless tree stumps in or near walkways, inside of playgrounds, and in parking areas. Quickly getting rid of that pesky tree stump and tree roots will improve the walkability and use of a residential, commercial, or public walkways, parking areas, and the general area.

How do you grind tree stumps and tree roots?

To grind a tree stump, we use special tree stump grinding equipment made for the job. A tree stump grinder works by using a large spinning wheel with blunt carbide teeth to cut and chip your stump into usable organic mulch. After the mulch goes through its process of decomposition, you will be able to use the mulch to backfill the hole or for use anywhere around your property. Mulching can keep weeds and other unwanted undergrowth from sprouting up around your property.

What will you do with the tree stump grindings from my tree stump (or tree stumps) after removal?

After we grind your stump, we will use all of the tree stump grindings mulched through the tree stump grinding process to backfill the hole left where the tree stump was, leaving the area ready for its next purpose. You can also use the mulched tree stump remnants as much for your property. Mulching can help to keep weeds and other unwanted undergrowth from sprouting up around your property.

How deep into the soil does tree stump grinding go?

On average, we grind each tree stump to a depth of 10-12 inches below the grade of the top of your soil to make sure the tree stump will not be able to continue to grow. Sometimes, for one reason or another, a client will need a tree stump ground lower. We are able to accommodate, if we are informed at the time of the quote. The same concept applies to tree roots.

How do underground utilities on our property affect tree stump grinding?

Underground utilities such as gas, power, water, and cable lines absolutely need to be considered. If you have any underground utilities, you must inform us at the time of the quote, so that we can plan for it. Once you let us know, we can contact the North Carolina’s 811 service and request to have them come out to mark where the utilities run alongside or on your property. Utility marking is a free service that is provided by the State of North Carolina.

If there are any conflicts between your stumps and the utilities we will be able discuss them individually. Most of the time we are able to come up with a plan that will suit your needs. Safety of your property and its usage is our primary concern.

How much does tree stump grinding and tree root grinding cost?

Tree stump grinding and tree root grinding cost less than people think. The price of each job is based on the size of the tree stump and associated roots. We measure the diameter of the tree stump at the base of the tree where it meets the ground.

We also take into consideration any surface roots or other obstacles that we may encounter. With that said, the average cost is around $3 per inch. It could be less if the tree stump is soft or partly rotted. All pricing estimates are upfront, so there are no surprises when the job begins.

We give you our highest price to start with, so if the price changes, it will be in the favor of the owner. No one ever seems to mind if the price is less then quoted!

We do have a $75 minimum to cover our cost and time for bringing out the tree stump grinding equipment to the property We do own all of our equipment and don’t have to rent or lease the equipment, which makes it possible for us to charge less, because we don’t have to make payments on expensive loans or leases.

Will the stump grinder fit through gates or tear up the grass in my yard on my property?

Our tree stump grinder is the size of a large lawn mower. It has a 35 hp gas motor and rubber tires.We are able to access backyards and fenced in areas as long as there is a 36 inch gate. We should be able to get to and from your tree stump with no damage to gates or your manicured lawn, unless we discuss it first. If something needs to be removed to accommodate the tree stump grinder, we will discuss that during the estimate.

When tree stump grinding removal is completed, we do a clean-up by raking and blowng any dirt or mulch that remains. We use industry certified netting and shields to protect your windows and cars from any debris generated by the tree stump grinder, but it’s always best to remove automobiles or other costly items from the tree stump grinding area.

How do I pay for your tree stump grinding services?

No payments are made until the job is completed and you are satisfied with our work. We guarantee you will be completely satisfied and the tree stump will not come back, once we have ground the tree stump and associated roots satisfactorily.

Do you guarantee your tree stump grinding removal?

If the stump or roots ever do sprout again, or if any part of the stump remains a problem, we will be glad to come back to fix the problem at no cost to you.

Our guarantee is based on the original grade of the land when the tree stump and associated roots are removed. Typically, that’s 12″ from the top soil.

If you significantly change the grade on your property–for example, you contract with a landscaping company to remove the topsoil over the ground tree stump and/or roots, we can no longer guarantee our work, but would be willing to come back out at a discounted rate to assist with further tree stump grinding if necessary.

Is Asheville Stump Grinding, LLC insured?

Yes, we carry General liability insurance to protect you and your property in the case of an accident. A current copy of this policy can be provided upon request.