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How Professional Stump Grinding Works Step by Step

How Professional Stump Grinding Works Step by Step

After cutting down a potentially hazardous tree on your property, the job is not complete until you get…

Dec 04,2025

After cutting down a potentially hazardous tree on your property, the job is not complete until you get rid of the eyesore left behind. This means stump grinding or full removal is necessary to do the job correctly the first time. Sometimes, there are many stumps to grind or remove, which can pose serious safety and aesthetic hazards if handled incorrectly. If you want to cut down a tree or are looking to grind stumps on your property, familiarizing yourself with the process is crucial. Here’s a step-by-step process of professional grinding to ensure a seamless process.

How Professional Stump Grinding Works Step by Step

Assess the Site

Before certified arborists start, they will conduct a comprehensive assessment of the work site. This involves evaluating crucial factors like stump type, size, and condition to determine the right equipment and approach. Additionally, the arborist will identify the number of stumps and survey surrounding areas for hidden hazards like underground utilities or rocks. After gathering vital information, a customized plan is developed to get the proper equipment to the site, especially if it is in a tight spot. If the area is inaccessible, the tree service in Atlanta, GA will recommend alternatives to ensure there’s enough space to work safely.

Site Preparation

Stump grinding may seem straightforward, but a lot goes into the process than just shredding wood with a grinder. After a thorough assessment of your outdoor layout, the tree company will clear the area. Any debris, rocks, or other objects around the stump will be removed to prevent them from becoming damaging to the equipment or becoming projectiles. If the stump is near buildings, plants, and other structures, the tree service providers will recommend protective strategies like using boards and tarps to prevent damage from flying wood chips.

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Stump Grinding

The tree service team will use the appropriate grinder to ensure stability and balance throughout the grinding process. Additionally, professionals will wear all the necessary protective gear, including safety goggles, ear protection, and gloves. If you live in an area that requires a permit before undertaking landscaping projects like tree removal, the technicians will obtain the necessary documentation to ensure compliance. The general rule of thumb is that stumps should be ground between six and eight inches, but this can vary depending on different factors like the likelihood of regrowth.

Cleanup and Finishing

The byproduct of grinding wood is collected, and you are asked whether you’d like to dispose of it or spread it across the yard as mulch. If you want a healthier backyard, leaving the wooden chips may be the best option. Finally, the hole is filled, and the area is leveled to prepare for future planting, landscaping, or seeding projects.

Now that you know what to expect when you hire a tree company to grind a stump, you can prepare better and avoid disruptions to your daily routine. Professional stump grinding takes between 30 minutes and 2 hours, depending on the stump type, size, and accessibility.

Why Hire a Tree Service Provider

DIY enthusiasts may opt for a more hands-on approach, often using conventional grinders to clear different stump types and sizes. While this approach is commendable and potentially cost-effective, it poses serious safety hazards and property damage. Professional arborists are trained to operate heavy machinery and wear protective gear, minimizing the risk of serious injury from flying debris. Additionally, arborists know how to work around underground utilities and other potential obstacles, preventing devastating scenarios and costly emergencies.

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

When it comes to stump removal, hiring a tree company is the best course of action. Contact Sesmas Tree Service today to book an appointment with our experts and enjoy a healthy landscape for years to come. We provide comprehensive services, including stump grinding and removal, helping you reclaim outdoor spaces.

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