How to Use a Stump Grinder - Do-it-yourself Tips

Tree stumps are unattractive and can mar the appearance of your property. If you have ever considered having them removed, I encourage you to take on the challenge to do it yourself. Using a stump grinder is not as difficult as you might think.

A stump grinder not only removes the roots, but can grind the tree stump below ground level, making it invisible to the naked eye. Imagine the pride you will have, when you tell your friends, you did the job yourself and saved money!

Another option is to purchase stump removal products, that can be used to dissolve the tree stump. It will still take a year or more for them to break down.

There are some who do not enjoy doing this type of work, but if you are a man or woman who love a challenge consider, removing the stump yourself.

If you are hiring someone to remove a tree on your property, ask your tree care professional, to cut down the tree as low to the ground as possible. This will make it easier for you, when removing the stump with a grinder.

You can rent tree stump grinder from a major hardware chain or heavy equipment rental company. Sunbelt Rentals is a well- known company and located nationwide.

Before you rent a stump grinder, you will need to do a little research on the types of stump removal equipment available. Stump grinders come in different sizes, weight and have different features. Google, "stump grinders" and choose one you can handle and one that fits your budget.

Renting a stump grinder will cost you from $125 or more a day. It will be more cost effective, if you have several tree stumps you need to remove. You can also share the project and the cost with a neighbor.

• Measure the height and the diameter of the stump or stumps you plan to remove
• Make sure you rent a stump grinder large enough to handle the job
• Consider a grinder that has a protective skirt, which will protect you from flying wood chips
• Self-propelled stump grinders are quicker and easier to use
• For added convenience, rent a stump grinder that can be towed behind your truck

Talk to the heavy equipment rental professional, for instructions on how to safely use the stump grinder. They will give you complete instructions on how to safely use the equipment. It is important to know how to stop the stump grinder in the case of an emergency.

When using a stump grinder, safety is very important. You will need:

• eye gargles
• ear plugs
• protective foot wear (not tennis shoes).
• long-sleeved shirt

Do a sweep of the area around the stump and remove any large stones or rocks.

Before you turn on the stump grinder, make sure the break is set. Lower the blades of the stump grinder in front of the stump and then turn it on.

Make sure you have a steady grip on the stump grinder and begin to move the stump grinder from side to side in a sweeping motion to grind the stump to the level you want.