Clients want a manicured, neat lawn. However, stumps can make the yard look cluttered and unattractive.
These are some helpful tips from tree professionals to help you remove stumps. Learn how to avoid common mistakes.
Your preferred method
Todd Burke is the owner of Dave’s Tree Services in Egg Harbor, Wisconsin. He says stump grinding has become his favorite activity, as it’s one of the most popular services they provide.
There are many methods to remove stumps. Burke believes that stump removal is the best way to go.
Burke states that although you can use many methods to remove stumps, a stump grinder is more effective. While heavy equipment can be used, it is not the best. This will result in a lot more mess.
Burke stated that they have two stumpers to help their crews. The larger one is pulled behind the vehicle and the smaller one is self-propelled and used for smaller projects.
Burke asserts that he has witnessed people using chemicals to remove stumps and others trying to burn them. He claims that he has not personally experienced the best results with these methods.
Burke states, “Those are home remedies you could call it, but I don’t believe they work very well.” For homeowners who don’t want to hire stumpers, they can be rented from the hardware shop.
Burke stated that stumps of the softwood variety and small size can work well. It will not work if the stumps are large or of a hardwood type.
Burke said, “I often hear homeowners say they will take care of the stump themselves.” “Nine of ten times those people call me back.” Others methods are not as efficient for stump removal.
Burke says safety is the most important aspect to stump grinding on the north shore. Burke says that the number one reason someone can get hurt while stump grinding in north shore is not knowing what’s beneath.
Burke says that the first step in this type of project is to contact the local utility department. Burke also suggests calling the Diggers Hotline to ensure that all underground lines have been marked.
Burke states, “Before we ever ground a stump, make sure that there are flags or spraypainted marks in the yard where utilities such as a gas or water line.” You must ensure that the stump is properly marked for underground utilities.
Burke asks that contractors mark stumps 10 feet from Burke’s location. Burke states that this is a free service to the customer or contractor.
Burke suggests that you ensure that competently-trained personnel are involved in any project you undertake. Burke states that safety manuals and safety charts are kept in every vehicle, and that all employees are trained before going out on the job.
Burke said, “You don’t want to take someone unfamiliar with that machine.” Give them a brief overview and let them get to work grinding the stumps. You need an operator who is familiarized with the machine. “
Burke recommends that you have a plan in place for what to do if anything happens.
Burke believes safety procedures and policies should be established to ensure stumper operators are prepared for any emergency. When it comes to your job, you cannot be too prepared or too safe.
Getting started
Burke recommends that you put up a safety fence around the stump when you’re on the jobsite in order to keep debris from flying back at operators.
Once the barricades are up and all PPE installed, he suggests you grab a pickaxe and go to the stump to check if you have any material you can pull out before you start the grinding.
Burke says that stumps are often used by customers to improve the layout and appearance of their yards. It can be hard to maintain your lawn, and stumps could cause problems. To restore your lawn, you can either remove them or fill in the gaps.
Burke recommends that stumps be ground from the whole mound. This includes dirt and roots that rise towards the stump.
Burke says that stumps are often needed to make way for new plants. Sometimes, they want to replant a nearby tree.
Burke warns against planting trees where stumps have been removed. Burke warns against planting a tree where the stump was removed. Burke suggests that the hole be filled in and new trees planted nearby.
Burke suggests that stump grinders should not be used when the stump is too close or in direct contact with a line. Burke recommends that stump grinders not be used if the stump is too close to a line. It will be less noticeable. Burke recommends that you use a grinder if you feel confident you can remove the stump manually.
Burke states, “Once your safety is assured, you can begin stump grinding.” You must not dig any deeper than what you have dug. If stumps are not too far from utilities, you can grind them. You don’t have to be very cautious.
Burke recommends that you clean up the area as soon as the project is complete. Clearing the area immediately after the project is completed will make it easier. Clean out the hole, then add new topsoil.
Burke suggests that you lightly pack the soil before you rake it. Burke suggests breaking up the dirt layer and then spreading grass seeds. This will encourage new growth.
+ There are no comments
Add yours