Menu

Schedule Tree Service & Care This Winter to Get $50 Off

Stump Grinding vs. Stump Removal

Stump Grinding vs. Stump Removal

At Sesmas Tree Service, we have a deep appreciation for trees and have dedicated our lives to servicing…

May 01,2021

At Sesmas Tree Service, we have a deep appreciation for trees and have dedicated our lives to servicing and caring for trees, shrubs, bushes, and other perennial woody plants. We prefer to exhaust every option before resorting to removing a tree, but we understand that desperate times call for desperate measures. Sometimes, there is no other option than to remove the tree. Aside from the moral issue, there is also some physical issues to address. This article will focus on the stump. Specifically, is it better to grind the stump or remove it? As you will see, the answer depends on your specific situation. If you have any specific questions or concerns, or if you would like to hire a tree service specialist, then call Sesmas Tree Service. Our representatives are always happy to help.

Stump Grinding vs. Stump Removal

What Is Stump Removal?

If you were to just infer from its name, you would think that a stump removal is a simple task. In reality, a stump removal involves a lot more than simply removing the stump. After you have cut down and removed your tree, the stump generally remains until it and its roots rot away. A stump removal is an intrusive process in which the stump and roots are forcefully removed from the ground. As you might imagine, this can devastate your yard and leave your property in ruin.

Our Services

Crane Services Crane Services

Crane Services

Some tree removals reach a point where standard equipment simply is not enough to do the job safely. Tight clearances, extreme…

Learn More
Arborist Services Arborist Services

Arborist Services

Your Trusted Local Arborists in The Metro Atlanta Trees are a lot more than a trunk, some branches,…

Learn More
Tree Risk Assessment Tree Risk Assessment

Tree Risk Assessment

Tree risk assessment is essentially when a professional arborist analyzes a tree and concludes just how much of a risk it…

Learn More
Stump Grinding Stump Grinding

Stump Grinding

So, you have had a tree removed or you plan on removing a tree. What do you do about the stump?…

Learn More
Retention and Detention Pond Maintenance Retention and Detention Pond Maintenance

Retention and Detention Pond Maintenance

Property management companies and HOAs in Georgia are required to maintain their retention ponds to make sure their stormwaters on their properties…

Learn More
Tree Removal Tree Removal

Tree Removal

The reasons for tree removal vary quite a bit. Perhaps you've moved into a new home and want to get…

Learn More
Tree Trimming Tree Trimming

Tree Trimming

Are you looking for a reliable tree company for tree trimming or pruning? Sesmas Tree Service offers expert residential and…

Learn More
Tree Services Tree Services

Tree Services

Are you looking for a trusted tree service or tree removal in Atlanta? Look no further as…

Learn More

What Is Stump Grinding?

We understand that having a tree stump jutting out of the ground can be aesthetically unpleasant. It is also a serious trip hazard for you, your family, guests, and even pets. If you want to get rid of that hazard without destroying the yard, then a stump grinding is an option. Stump grinding does not involve removing the roots. Rather, the stump is grinded as far as 18 inches into the ground, away from sight. Granted, stump grinding does leave a hole in your yard, the hole is nowhere near as exaggerated as the one left by a stump removal.

Which Should You Choose?

There is no right answer here. It all comes down to your preferences and circumstance. Instead of choosing one or the other for you, we will review some of the pros and cons of each choice and the choice is up to you. In either case, Sesmas Tree Service is here to help.

Customer Reviews

3 large Leyland Cypress trees removed near front of our home. Excellent service, professional crew, very competitive pricing for superior work! Rolando provided the initial estimate and the  follow up and was the best in terms of customer relations. I'd both use this company again AND highly recommend them.

Susan Hitchcock

This is the 2nd time we have used Sesmas Tree Service. They are a wonderful company to deal with. They were on time, professional, and very thorough. They cleaned up prior to leaving and went out of their way to protect our plants and landscaping. And they kept to their proposal with no hidden cost or add ons. Definitely a five star experience!

Gene McFadden

Wow!  I deal with tree services in my professional work and I can honestly say Sesmas is by far the most professional, best equipped, efficient, safety conscious, and communicative service I've ever encountered.  Their price was very reasonable and they even went so far as to include additional work without increasing the price.  Call them!  Now! They are very quick to respond.

Scott McLendon

We've used Sesmas several times and have always received excellent service.  Estimates are quick and easy and the crew is efficient and leaves the property clean of debris.  Recently we needed a tree removed next to a heavily landscaped area.  Sebastian went over everything with me in detail and listened to my concerns.  The crew did an excellent job in removing the tree with minimal disturbance to the surrounding area.  We are pleased and will consider them again in the future for pruning and tree removal.

Tonia Griswold

Sesmas Tree Service was amazing! I had two dead trees cut and a lot of trees that were already down on my property removed. Sebastian came out and sent the quote in writing within 24 hours. We were in the process of scheduling the service when a slot opened up sooner snd I was able to go ahead and get the work done. Everything was explained ahead of time for what to expect. The crew was very efficient and professional.  All of the work and cleanup was done in one day. I would recommend Sesmas for your tree cutting/cleanup needs.

LaDora Woods

I hired Sesmas to cut down a very tricky tree that was hanging over my house as well as a few large limbs. They did a great job and had the machinery to get the job done right.

Perry Hartman

Great experience with Sesmas. They were meticulous with my tree removal, safe and efficient. David’s communication throughout the process was much appreciated. Highly recommend!

Lindsay Ellenburg

Great experience with Sesmas Tree Service. The arborist who came out was a Board Certified Master Arborist, and you could immediately tell he knew his stuff. He took the time to explain what needed to be done, gave us clear options, and helped us feel confident from start to finish. The whole process was easy and professional. We’ll definitely use them again.

Ed Martin

A stump removal completely eliminates the stump and the roots, saving you from having to wait for a lengthy root decay. It also eliminates the possibility of regrowth. However, a stump removal is typically more costly than stump grinding. Add the cost of restoring the yard after the intrusive procedure and you are looking at a significant dent in your wallet.

Meanwhile, a stump grinding is quick and efficient. It is much less intrusive and destructive while leaving your yard free of visual unpleasantry. However, the roots remain and can take a long time to fully decay. Also, the sawdust left behind must be properly removed if you want to avoid attracting termites.

If you want to schedule an appointment with an ISA-certified arborist, then call Sesmas Tree Service for a consultation. We are always happy to help.

Blogs & Latest News

Stay updated with the latest tips, trends, and insights from Sesmas. Explore expert advice on tree care, safety, and maintenance to keep your landscape healthy and beautiful year-round.

View All
Feb 17,2026

Are Cheap Tree Removal Services Worth the Risk?

Trees play a crucial role in our daily lives, from providing shade and enhancing curb appeal to purifying the air we…

Read More
Feb 11,2026

Professional Tree Care Starts at the Roots

Trees are magnificent entities that provide many benefits to your landscape and the environment. While big, mature trees may seem sturdy…

Read More
Feb 04,2026

Is That Old Tree Stump a Problem?

Have you had trees removed from your backyard? If so, the stumps left behind can be problematic if left unattended. If…

Read More
Jan 27,2026

Tree Services: Small Cuts That Prevent Big Damage

Ever wondered how tree service providers in Atlanta, GA make strategic small cuts to prevent devastating damage? The secret lies…

Read More
Jan 20,2026

How Tree Services Protect Your Home and Property

Trees provide numerous benefits to your landscape and the environment. However, they require regular care to remain healthy, safe, and beneficial.…

Read More
Jan 14,2026

What Insurance Should a Tree Company Have?

Insurance for tree service providers in Atlanta, GA helps cover injuries, damages, stolen equipment, and lawsuits. Essentially, anything that can damage…

Read More
Jan 07,2026

How Proper Trimming Helps Trees Grow Stronger

Trees in your backyard or neighborhood may catch your attention; some are sturdy and healthy, while others are weak and struggling.…

Read More
Dec 30,2025

Best Trees to Plant for Shade and Value

Are you looking for ways to elevate your outdoor spaces with function, beauty, and eco-friendly flair? If so, planting trees is…

Read More