The life of the trees in our yards is not eternal. When they get old, they pose a danger not only to the integrity of our home but also a potential life hazard. That is why it is recommended to cut the old trees.
However, after cutting, the stump remains, which significantly affects the aesthetics of the yard. While it can be left to decompose on its own, depending on its size it can be a long process. For that purpose, many people consider removing their stumps.
In this article, we’ll talk about the cheapest way to get rid of stumps in your yard. In addition, we will talk about all of the things that affect the costs. Keep reading and find out more.
Average costs for stump extraction
You can usually expect a price tag of around $300. However, depending on your specific situation, prices can go from $80 to $500. This depends on the method by which it will be removed, the diameter of the stub, and the type of tree. If you need an exact price on how much the stump extraction will cost in your situation, click here for a consultation with experts.
Methods for stump extraction
One of the biggest determinants of the costs of this project is the method that will be used for stub removal. That is why it is important to understand all of the possible solutions.
1. Manual work
The first removal method is by doing manual work. It includes the use of chainsaws and other manual tools like shovels and axes to get the stump into smaller parts. Even though this is the most complete method, it requires lots of labor which is the reason behind its high price.
2. Burning
This is another stump removal method that you can consider. It is done by drilling multiple vertical holes and filled with saltpeter. Then, the tree is lit on fire and left to slowly burn for a couple of hours.
Due to this chemical, there are no open flames. However, the professional must ensure all sparks are contained to prevent the spreading of the fire. This method might not be allowed in urban areas, so, have that in mind during the method selection.
3. Grinding
Most of the tree removal services are offering to grind as a preferred method to extract the stump. This is done by using a large cylinder machine that grinds the stub making it suitable for most trees. It usually takes a maximum of two hours to finish this job making it highly efficient and affordable.
However, the grinding method can’t be used on stumps with difficult accessibility. In addition, due to grinding around five inches below the ground, you will have to refill the excavation.
4. Chemical treatment
Because it requires the least amount of work and takes a lot of time to break down the tree, chemical treatment is usually the cheapest way to get rid of stumps. It is done by drilling multiple holes and pouring a chemical solution such as sulfur acids. That will slowly degrade the tree during around five weeks.
5. Complete root extraction
Most of the stub removal methods from above are not focusing on the roots. This is because you need an excavator to access the roots, and it makes your yard a mess. In addition, the situation gets more complicated if the roots are going under paths, or there are pipes and cables dug near them.
Things that affect the cost
Besides the method of removal, various things affect the cost of the stump extraction process. For that reason, we made a short list of the things you should be aware of.
1. Permit requirements
Firstly, you need to check for certain regulations in your area and see whether a permit is necessary to perform stump extraction. This can be highly important in case there are power cables and other utilities buried near the tree.
2. Quantity of stumps
Although most of the stub extractions come with a certain price, there are numerous discounts you can achieve for the number of stubs you have. For the first stub, you may have to cover an expense of around a hundred dollars no matter its size, but the price will go down for the remaining ones.
3. Labor costs
The labor can be either calculated by hour or by the diameter of the stubs removed which is usually the preferred option. This means that as big as the diameter of the tree is, much work needs to be extracted.
4. How accessible the stump is
Accessibility is another important factor that affects the costs. Sometimes, the more affordable methods cannot be performed due to closed fences or house infrastructure, as well as root complexity and conditions of the soil.
5. Preparations
Before the extraction is performed, the surrounding area needs to be prepared. This includes removing rocks around the tree, and anything else that might obstruct the work. In addition, after the removal process, you’ll be left with wood chips and other particles. Removing them comes at a price.
Ways to save
The biggest way to save a lot on the stump removal process is by doing it by yourself. You can rent a grinder machine for a day, or you can purchase saltpeter for burning or chemical treatment for less than 10 dollars. However, be sure you comply with the regulations, and consult with your local fire department.
Another thing you can do to save does the preparations and cleanup by yourself. Also, consider doing this project during the colder months. The professionals are in less demand and you can secure yourself a great price.
Conclusion
Although you can manage to remove smaller stubs by yourself, we recommend hiring professionals for larger and more complicated stumps. They have all the knowledge and expertise to finish everything quickly, sparing you multiple hours. Also, they have passed training and have the specific gear to remain safe.
However, if you have lots of free time, and you are allowed by the authorities, consider saving something by removing the stumps by yourself.
