If you've got a tree stump in your garden or outdoor space that's getting in the way, you might be wondering how to get rid of it. And if you're not planning to do the job yourself, you'll probably be thinking about the cost of stump removal.
In this blog by Tree Surgeon Pro, we're diving into the subject to provide all the information you'll need to make informed choices.
So, if you're the person who's been Googling, "How much does removal of tree stump cost?", this blog is for you!
The answer might seem obvious, but there are several methods of removing tree stumps. That is, there are a few different methods of getting rid of them, and some of these don't necessarily remove the stump, as such. Stump removal, technically speaking, is the process of completely removing the entire tree stump.
We're not being pedantic for the sake of it; we believe it's important to make sure that consumers have a clear understanding of the facts!
With this in mind, let's look at the most common methods of stump removal:
This extremely popular method uses a powerful tree stump grinder to shred the stump into tiny wood chips and sawdust. The grinder has a rotating wheel with sharp teeth that effectively destroys the entire stump in a short time, grinding it down below ground level by as much as 12 inches. The debris can be taken to a recycling depot for processing (into mulch or compost) or can be left with the customer for their own use.
As for the stump grinding cost, you can find out all about this in another of our special blogs devoted to this subject (called Tree Stump Grinding Cost).
This method involves drilling holes in the top and sides of the stump and injecting a chemical inside (usually potassium nitrate) to accelerate the decomposition process. This chemical effectively makes sure the stump is dead, so the fibres start to break down.
This is by no means a quick method, as it can take several months or years for the stump to decay entirely.
This is by far the most labour-intensive method involving the complete removal of the tree stump and root system. First, the tree surgeon will dig around the stump to expose the side, tap root and root plate. Next, they'll sever the large roots from the outlying root system (these will decay naturally over time).
The stump is often broken down into smaller pieces for easier handling unless it's small enough to remove whole. The waste material is then usually transported to a nearby recycling depot for processing.
Another method that involves the drilling of holes, although kerosene* is poured in instead of potassium nitrate. Once this has been absorbed, it is ignited (from a safe distance!) and the stump is eventually reduced to ash, after which the remaining roots can be dug out.
*Petrol, diesel or oil should never be used.
The drawback of this method - aside from the obvious dangers involved - is that you can't leave it to its own devices. Someone must be on standby with a fire extinguisher at all times in case it gets out of control.
Right, as we've already mentioned, you can learn about the cost of stump grinding in our other blog, so we're focusing on the stump removal cost here to avoid confusion.
So, how much does it cost to physically remove a tree stump?
The final cost will vary significantly depending on several factors, including:
A large tree stump will - of course - cost more than a smaller one due to the extra work involved.
Your tree surgeon will gauge this by measuring the stump and assessing the spread and size of the root system. A trained professional should be able to judge the extent of the roots by identifying the tree species.
While some tree care companies and arborists include the removal of waste and debris in the overall charge, some will charge an extra fee for this, probably around £30 to £50.
It won't break the bank, but it all adds up! It's wise to check whether this aspect is included in the total cost of stump removal, so make sure you get a written agreement in black and white before work begins.
The labour cost will vary depending on the tree surgery company you choose, but will typically be somewhere between £50 and £200 per hour, with an average cost of £100 per hour.
This will reflect how well-established, experienced and qualified the tree surgeon is, to some extent, although your location will play a part; customers in the southeast (especially London!) will usually pay a higher rate than those elsewhere.
This highlights the need to identify the type of tree to be removed, as softwood trees are generally easier to handle than hardwood trees.
That's because softwood trees are (mostly) less dense and have a fibrous root system that's easier to cut through and remove.
If the tree stump is difficult to reach and space is restricted, your tree surgeon may need to think of ingenious ways of tackling the problem, and this can add to the cost.
Also, if the tree's roots are anywhere near underground pipes or other features (cess pits, foundations, etc.), this may add to the complexity of the job. Any such issue could potentially add to the overall cost of stump removal, so it pays to be prepared.
Most arborist/tree surgeons will offer to replant or settle the area following stump removal. This includes filling the hole, laying turf for a new lawn, planting a new tree, or clearing the entire site for development. You'll usually have to pay extra for these services, relative to the amount of work required.
We've invented a few typical scenarios that might help to give you an idea of the average cost of tree stump removal:
The shallow roots and lightweight wood make removal straightforward.
Dense wood and extensive root systems require more labour and time for manual removal.
Bulk removal often results in a lower cost per stump, but the labour cost increases with the number of stumps.
Limited accessibility adds to the cost due to extra labour for digging and transporting debris.
So, there you have it - a few examples of tree stump removal costs for you to consider. And if you want to weigh the costs against the other methods that a professional tree surgeon might offer, here's a quick guide:
It's worth noting that stump burning is rarely offered by most tree care companies, and stump grinding is likely to be the one they recommend.
Of the four methods mentioned in this blog, the Tree Surgeon Pro team would also suggest that grinding is the best option, as it's the quickest and most efficient. However, manual removal is still possible and may be necessary if other options are not viable.
Thinking about trying to remove a tree stump yourself?
Unless it's a very small stump, we have this message for you: Don't even try it!
Honestly, it's a time-consuming, thankless, dangerous and difficult task. First, you need the necessary equipment (some of which you'll have to hire or buy anyway), and then there's the effort required to shift the stubborn stump. And - trust us - tree stumps can be seriously stubborn! You've got to tackle the entire stump and root system, either with a stump grinder or with chainsaws, mattocks, pruning saws, axes and spades.
If you use the chemical method, you'll have to be patient. While we're on the subject, you can use Epsom salts or even boiling water as eco-friendly alternatives, but you'll still need to wait for months (or years) for any results.
As for burning the stump, this carries its own risks, aside from being potentially illegal or unlawful (yes, there's a difference between the two) in some areas. A fire that burns out of control can cause extensive damage to the surrounding area, damaging other plants or even property. Large stumps will require a lot of burning and could take a couple of days!
If you need a tree stump removed, we urge you to consider hiring a professional tree surgeon. This is especially the case if you have multiple stumps to get rid of!
However, this is your choice. If you decide that DIY is the way to go, then please take all necessary precautions.
The Tree Surgeon Pro experts are more than happy to visit you to remove a tree stump from your front garden or wherever it might be causing a problem.
But this accounts for only a fraction of what they are trained and qualified to do. Need an entire tree removed? They specialise in tree removal! Worried about Tree Preservation Orders? We can liaise with local planning offices to discover the facts and check what work - if any - can be carried out.
Do you require help with diseased trees, lawn care, or tree work in conservation areas? Then contact our team and they'll be able to assist you.
If you need more information about any of our services or want to book a tree stump removal appointment, get in touch and we'll have a friendly chat about it.
