The cost associated with removing or trimming a tree varies grealty depending on a lot of factors mostly associated with the tree height, location, size and level of access.
How much does tree stump removal cost? Since trees or shrubs can be of different species, stump grinding and tree stump removal costs can vary, as the roots may be quite hard to pull, have difficult branch patterns to cut, or have more undergrowth to cut. However, a professional tree surgeon will provide you with a quote according to what he sees.
Presence of power lines
If electric wires seem to be present close to the tree, the charges will be definitely higher. Trees near power lines demand special safety arrangements. There is an obvious risk of injury. Additionally, the company must make sure that none of the branches falls over the wires by using ropes to eliminate the branches carefully. This strategy requires plenty of time and effort, and so the charges are high.
Strategy toward felled wood
If a job is relatively large, there will be a huge amount of felled wood. However, in case the job is small, the cost will be meager. Therefore, you may ask the tree removal service your hire to include the expense of hauling away the felled wood with the final cost of the job is small. But, if the job is big enough, and you want the felled wood as firewood, you may ask the agency to include splitting or cutting costs as you will most likely not cut the woods yourself.
Stump grinding options
You can either ask for simple grinding of the stump, or you may want it obliterated. The latter costs a lot as there is no guarantee regarding how complex the root system actually is! The size of the system plays a tremendous role too. Also, it requires much more time than grinding. As grinding a dead tree stump is quite a simple task to perform, you can pay a straight hourly rate. However, with complete removal, the pricing will probably differ.
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Tree stump removal & grinding
Have a chat with your tree surgeon regarding the expenses involved in removing or grinding dead tree stumps from the yard. However, grinding the stump down is quite an easy task and will be quoted hourly.
Tree stump removal cost
In case you wish to obliterate the stump, then you can expect a higher cost. Since one can never know how complicated a tree’s root system is until and unless the stump is excavated, it might take more time. The average cost of tree stump removal in the UK ranges from £50 to £300 per stump.
Tree stump grinding cost
If you do not want the stump to be obliterated, you must consider grinding it or leaving it. A tree stump grinding professional will use a chainsaw to cut the stump and a motorized machine to grind it away. The minimum charge is around £60 per hour for a tree stump no larger than 15 inches in diameter.
Removing Tree Stumps (up to 5 inches in diameter)
For getting rid of the tree stumps in a garden, you could either try it yourself or get help from a professional tree stump removal professional/company. Another option is to let it remain. What to choose depends entirely on you.
Tree Stump Location
Not only is a tree stump disagreeable, but to look at its location can also be quite inconvenient. It can get in the way of many activities on the lawn, which means that the perfect alternative is to get rid of it.
Also, if a tree stump is located near a building or a fence, it could be a problem if the root system is extensive. Under such circumstances, the best option is to get in touch with a local tree surgeon.
Type of tree stump
If a tree stump is left unattended, it can give rise to many root diseases; the most common one is known as honey fungus. Honey fungus can be quite dangerous as it utilizes the stump as a food source, and then it attacks the other plants and vegetation in proximity.
Honey fungus
Trees prone to honey fungus are apple tree; cedars; birch; cherries (flowering); eucalyptus; cypresses; leylandii; monkey puzzle; lilac; privet; wellingtonia; walnut; willow.
Trees resistant to honey fungus are ash; box elder; bamboos; beech; Californian black walnut; cherry laurel; false acacia; hornbeam; grand fir; junipers; noble fir; larch; oaks; yew; whitebeam.
A few tree removal companies amplify the hazard of honey fungus to intimidate the customers and making them immediately want to get rid of stumps. In reality, if the tree has a honey fungus, it will be a herculean task to get rid of it, and in fact, if it’s in the ground, it’ll remain in the ground even after stump removal.
If the stump is removed, it will browbeat the source of energy and food of the fungus. Also, the honey fungus usually only targets and attacks the weaker plants in proximity.
Tree stump’s size
Further, Scott says that in a relatively smaller tree stump up to 5 inches in diameter, you could attempt to dig it, which is the most efficient method to get rid of it. This will completely remove the stump and the root system, resulting in a place where you can regrow vegetation and plants instantly.
Use a mattock. It looks like a pickaxe, but it has a flat blade on one side. Depending on your needs, these can be purchased from a DIY store for just £10-£25.
He also suggests that the stump should be kept at the height of around 4 feet, giving you the much-needed leverage. It would help if you also cut first from the surface and then the roots.
High tree removal cost
A stump you might spend all weekend trying to remove unsuccessfully can be ground in 10 minutes by a professional.
In this case, it is most advisable to get in touch with a professional tree surgeon. Customers need help more often because it is not child’s play, and it is tough for them to do it. Even if the stump has a width of 1 foot below the ground, it can be quite a task because of the root system.
The remains, including woodchips, stay around in the garden and can be used. More often than not, stump grinders would take woodchips away for an extra fee with little or no harm to the ground.
Small tree removal cost
In the case of a relatively smaller tree stump up to 5 inches in diameter, you could attempt to dig it, which is the most efficient method to get rid of it. This will completely remove the stump and the root system, resulting in a place where you can regrow vegetation and plants instantly.
Stumps should be kept at the height of around 4 feet, giving you the much-needed leverage. It would help if you also cut first from the surface and then the roots.
Tree stump removal myths
If you look online for different methods or techniques for removing tree stumps, you will come across certain suggestions that are either senseless or extremely risky. With a detailed study, Scott enlists the various myths related to tree removal:
1. Paint-on chemicals for making the stump rot quickly
One of the myths includes a chemical that ought to be painted on a tree stump to quicken the rotting procedure; however, this product is non-existent.
2. Nitrate fertilizer for making the stump rot quite fast
Scott says that if holes are drilled in a stump and permeated with nitrate fertilizers, it may reduce the long procedure by about a year.
3. Burning stump with kerosene
Another myth, as pointed by Scott, includes an attempt to burn the stump, which leads to the stump becoming hard and dry. It is quite a herculean task and relatively more complicated for an expert to remove a seasoned (hard and dry) stump by grinding. However, the internet favors burning the stump using kerosene, ideally avoiding it because it is unsafe and ineffective.
4. Using chainsaw on roots
Usually, people try to dig and excavate around the tree stump and further attempt to cut through the roots by a chainsaw. What happens is that the blade of the chainsaw eventually becomes blunt because it is not crafted to cut through the hard roots.
Should You Remove that Tree: Questions to Ask Yourself
Whenever a tree seems to have developed certain problems or diseases, the crucial question raised is how to proceed with the whole thing! The truth is, trees raise property value and beauty and prevent soil erosion and climate roughness. In fact, whether to remove an infected tree at all is a big question mark in most people’s brains. The thing is, if a dead tree does not provide a threat of falling, one may keep it. Frequent watering and removal of infected parts can do wonders for many years.
However, one needs to carefully assess all the pros and cons before making a firm decision. For instance, who can do it if financial stability is not an issue and an owner wishes to have a tree in the compound even after it has developed a certain infection or condition? In fact, by removing or cutting dead portions of a tree, who can maintain it for years to come. However, such an attempt is not only expensive but also quite bold, as many neighbors tend to freak out, fearing that the particular tree may end up falling in their compound. Also, keep in mind that most old dead trees provide shelter and meet the food requirements of many woodpecker species.
In a circumstance where you have to take measures regarding an infected tree, remember to take the help of a professional, as such jobs are a little complex and unsafe for an average person. Be sure to go for an Arborist who is insured and certified rightly by the state and holds a proper license.
Before taking a decision, ask yourself the following questions:
Is the tree species truly desirable?
Issues such as frequent wood damage, the release of huge amounts of debris regularly, a quite frequent occurrence of infections or diseases, undesirable roots that affect pavements or lawns, etc., are indications that the tree may not be worth keeping. Moreover, certain species such as catalpa, silver maple, black locust, mulberry, Siberian elm, empress tree, willows, Bradford pear, mimosa, etc., are not truly desirable species.
What is the health condition of the tree?
Most trees that are affected by herbicides can recover despite having ill-shaped leaves for certain periods. However, if a tree seems to be damaged too much, more or less 50 percent, it is best to remove it from the compound. Most trees that develop serious illnesses or diseases have the ability to survive for several years to come; however, the look and growth of such trees are often noticeably abnormal or limited.
Is trunk damage an issue at hand?
If the primary trunk appears to have serious damage, the logical option is removal. On the other hand, if the circumference damage seems to be less than 25 percent, you may assume with certain accuracy that the tree will survive with no permanent damage. Normally, signs of internal decay include seams, vertical cracks, old large wounds, and dead branch stubs.
How hollow is a particular tree?
A tree can survive quite well with a hollow trunk since the phloem and xylem, the main tissues of a tree, are located toward the outer part of a tree. However, if the tree has one-third of its interior portion rotten or hollow, it is essential to get rid of it immediately as such a condition may prove to be dangerous owing to the weakness of the trunk.
Do huge dead branches exist?
Trees that are big in size having limb damage or top breakage can be quite dangerous for people and properties. Although trees witnessing less than 25 percent damage has a very high chance of survival, any rubbing or crossed branches must be removed with care. Narrow angles of branches, particularly those associated with the primary trunk, tend to split often, and therefore, need correction.
Note that this process works best when it comes to young trees. In case the branches seem too large or complex to remove, the cable can be made use of to associate the two branches so that any stress is eliminated, removing the chance of breakage. Note that professional help is suggested.
Are the dead branches on a single side?
A tree that is lopsided due to the existence of one-sided dead branches can be very hazardous. Normally, root damage or trunk-related damage on that particular tree side is the cause behind this. Such a kind of situation is to be inspected by a qualified professional.
Are sprouts prevalent from the tree base or epicormic shoots?
This type of damage is normally suffered by trees with recent soil complications, new house construction damage, or over-exposure to sunlight due to the thinning of the forest. Sprouts are normal signs of stress, and trees suffering from sprouts need to be checked by experts.
Is trunk rot or fungi growth close to the tree base relevant?
Although most mushrooms seen near the tree base are harmless and do not trigger tree infections or diseases, the growth of fungi on a certain tree suggests internal rotting.
Can excavation leading to root damage be an issue?
If more than half of the root system seems rotten or damaged, the tree needs to be eliminated.
Is there sudden leaning?
A straight tree is not truly dangerous in most cases; however, if a tree is noticed to be more than 15 percent leaning from its vertical position, there is likely to be root damage or root breakage. In this case, immediate removal is the most common solution.
Do power lines exist above the tree?
Trees located under power lines are best at a height that is less than 25 feet. In case a tree is exceeding that height, it may be time to take some measures. With very high trees near power lines, there is a chance of human or property damage during wet weather conditions. Power failure is common too. Keep in mind that removing tree limbs close to power lines must never be performed by a general person because, in case of any injury, the consequences can be devastating. Always, whatever the situation is, go for a professional who deals with dangerous situations.
Is the associated tree history good enough?
Jobs such as pruning or outdated topping may lead to damages many years later. For instance, the later job normally results in re-growth breakage. Also, who must maintain soil level because generally, an increase of more than 3 inches above the root system forces a tree to give up? At times, the environment plays a crucial part too. For instance, a tree near a water body or rock ledge may have a shallow or inferior root system, requiring removal. Sudden fierce sun exposure can lead to tree death as well. Additionally, construction work causes many trees to die within 3 to 5 years, as there are grade changes and soil compaction.
Is the tree location spacious?
When it comes to a forest, trees can grow very well in a fully natural environment, even when growing
quite close to each other. However, it is not the best idea to plant a huge tree next to your house wall. At least allow 20 feet distance from the house and the tree if the species are big, and allow nearly 6 feet separation if the tree species are small.
Is the tree special in some way?
Are there sentimental occasions attached to the particular tree? Are there special moments or memories you share with it? If so, it may be wise emotionally to embrace some expenses to keep it alive longer. If it is simply taking space or is hampering the growth potential of nearby trees or blocking a potentially good sight or view, it is best to remove it.
If there are many unanswered questions, or you want a tree evaluated, be sure to consult a good arborist. You can find certified arborists using the International Society of Arboriculture. You can discuss health and safety issues too with professionals.
How To Remove A Tree Stump
STEP 1: Drill Holes in the Stump
Cut the top of the stump off and drill one-inch holes around the perimeter of the stump using a 1-in. spade bit with a spade but extension. Make the holes have a depth of 12 inches and 3 to 4 inches away from the edge. Drill more connecting holes of 3 to 4 inches to serve as vent holes to assist the rotting process and for burning.
STEP 2: Pour chemicals used for removing tree stumps into the holes and fill the holes with water. This takes about a month and a half.
Another way to remove a stump is to rent a power stump grinder or buy a tree stump remover available at home or in garden centers. Tree stump removal chemicals are usually made from potassium nitrate, which makes the stump rot faster. Pour the chemical granules into the holes drilled around the stump and pour water into the holes. After a month or six weeks, the stump gets spongy, and then you can use an ax to break the rotten wood. Ensure you keep children and pets away.
If you do not want to subject yourself to any form of labor during a tree stump removal, you can burn whatever is left of the stump by pouring fuel oil or kerosene into the holes. Do not use gasoline. Allow the liquid to penetrate the wood first and then throw a lighted matchstick into the hole (the whole process could take several weeks). For some days, the stump removal will smolder and what will be life is a hole filled with charcoal. Do not leave a big smoldering ember in your yard. Use chicken wire to wrap the stump and remove any leaves around the stump before you light it. You should also monitor it closely while burning. Use an ax to finish the job. Tree stump removal is only recommended for old stumps and has spent more than a year dead.
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Choosing a stump grinding professional
With the absence of a certified national level association for stump grinders, most are registered with the Arboricultural Association.
It would help if you kept in mind that non-Arboricultural Association stump grinding professionals must not be discarded instantly because many small-scale organizations cannot live up to the escalating costs of such membership.
A good stump grinder would ask questions about the following:
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- The type of tree
- The diameter of the stump
- Whether the stump is of ground level
- Is the stump next to a building?
- Is there space around the stump?
- What is the reason for stump removal?
- What is planned for the region once the stump is removed?
- Is there access to the machinery?
Usually, stump grinders may come up with an approximate consensus and cost over the phon. In contrast, a few would pick a tour of the premises for assessing the stump properly before they can come up with an estimate.
An expert who says he will use poison or dig the stump out by hand should be discarded.
Never pay upfront to those professionals who will apply a chemical to make the stump rot away in a few months. Last but not least, check for insurance!
References
http://www.hgtv.com/design/outdoor-design/landscaping-and-hardscaping/how-to-remove-a-tree-stump
http://www.extension.umn.edu/garden/yard-garden/trees-shrubs/removing-trees-and-shrubs/
http://www.doityourself.com/stry/safe-tree-stump-removal–4-methods
https://www.thisoldhouse.com/ask-toh/removing-tree-stumps
https://extension.umd.edu/learn/how-do-you-decide-when-remove-tree
https://www.familyhandyman.com/landscaping/how-to-remove-a-tree-stump-painless
https://www.thelocaltreeexperts.com/tree-removal-cost/