Stump grinding in Kent

Grinding vs. full stump removal

Stump grinding uses a machine with a toothed cutting wheel to chew the stump down below ground level, leaving a pile of wood chips and soil. It's the most common choice for homeowners because it's fast and doesn't tear up the yard. Full removal digs out the stump and main roots, which is more disruptive and mostly needed for construction footings or when you need the space completely clear.

Questions to settle before grinding

• How deep? A few inches below grade is fine for sod; replanting a tree in the same spot or building over it needs deeper grinding.
• Surface roots? Big firs and maples often have large roots running across the lawn. Ask whether those are included.
• The chips: Leave them to fill the hole, spread them as mulch, or have them hauled away.
• Access: Many grinders fit through a 36-inch gate. Mention steps, slopes or tight side yards so the right machine shows up.
• Utilities: Underground lines must be located before grinding. Washington's free call-before-you-dig service is 811.

Kent stump tips

Douglas fir and cedar stumps break down slowly on their own — they can sit for many years. Big-leaf maple and alder stumps often re-sprout a thicket of shoots if they're just cut flat, so grinding is the cleaner fix. If a stump has mushrooms or conks around it, mention that; some root diseases common in our area can spread through roots to nearby trees.