Are you feeling stuck trying to work around unsightly tree stumps on your property? Not only do tree stumps have an effect on the overall curb appeal of your property, but they also pose a potential foot traffic hazard and an obstacle for lawn maintenance equipment. For both aesthetic and safety reasons, it’s best to remove tree stumps through the process of stump grinding with a quality machine like a Cormidi CMF1500 in Pennsylvania.
Here’s what you need to know about how stump grinding works.
Start by examining the stump
The first step in the stump grinding process should be evaluating the condition of the stump in terms of size, root depth and structure and the strength of the wood. It’s often helpful to get a professional opinion, since stumps can be much larger than anticipated and they often have an extensive root structure that extends both deep and wide.
Once you have a clear picture of the condition of the stump, select the right grinder to take it out. Not all grinders are made equal, but the Cormidi CMF1500 is a great entry-level model that can handle a variety of jobs. They’re readily available at local equipment sales and rental locations in Pennsylvania.
Grind the stump
The process of grinding the stump is relatively simple. Set the height and width correctly, then lock the grinder into place. As you grind the stump down, you’ll need to adjust the height and angle several times. As a general rule, reposition the grinder every time you drop down between 3 to 4 inches. Be sure to never change the position of the handle when the machine is on, and use locks on the wheel whenever necessary. Remember to always wear heavy clothes and protective eyewear, since chips will be flying as you remove successive layers of the stump.
Remove debris
If you’ve chosen a quality stump grinder for the job, it should dispose of wood chips in a simple and efficient way. As you grind down the stump layer by layer, the wood is shredded and will form a skirt of chips around the area. In most cases, the chips can create nearly four times the volume of the original stump.
Prior to grinding, it’s smart to lay down a plastic layer around the stump to catch the chips as they fall. These chips make excellent mulch, and it’s a great way to make use of the debris instead of simply throwing it away. Cover the area with soil and wood chips to avoid any safety hazards once the stump is completely removed.
Remove unsightly tree stumps at Pennsylvania property the right way by grinding them down with a quality machine such as a Cormidi CMF1500. Not only will your property look better, but it also will be safer for you and any of your guests to navigate. Reach out to the team at Central Equipment Today to learn more about the stump grinding process and to find the best machine for your needs.