Tree Stump Removal: Should I Remove My Tree Stump?
Removing a tree can be a necessity, but the job doesn’t end there. The tree stump is left behind after the tree itself is removed, and you may need tree stump removal in order to finish the job.. In most cases, homeowners will want to have the stump removed. It’s possible to let it stay in the ground and simply ignore it, but there are numerous reasons why removing the tree stump is a good idea. If it does need to be removed, remember to call the experts to get the job done.
Remove Risk of Injury
Tree stumps in the ground may look obvious right now, but as the grass grows, they can get more difficult to see. If the grass isn’t kept low near them, they can become almost invisible over time. Children running through the yard may not see the stump, even if it looks obvious, and can trip and be hurt. People visiting may also trip and be injured, and the homeowner may be held liable for any injuries.
The roots on the stump may still grow long after the tree is removed, so they can still impact the driveway, sidewalks, and other areas of the home. Lifted sidewalks can be dangerous for those who walk on them and can lead to falling, which can cause serious injuries. Removing the stump means there isn’t anything to grow and damage the sidewalk, driveway, or other portions of the yard, keeping everyone safe.
Prevent Pests Near the House
Stumps naturally attract pests as they break down. The tree stump can start to decay, which will lead to beetles, carpenter ants, termites, and other pests moving to the stump for shelter and a food source. From there, they can easily spread to the house, causing significant damage. Termites, for instance, can eat through the wood studs in the home, leading to structural damage that is not only dangerous but costly to fix, too.
On top of this, fungi and mold can also start to grow on the stump, which can spread to other parts of the yard and is dangerous for pets or small children. Keeping them away isn’t always easy, but removing the stump can keep the fungi or mold from growing. Diseases that may have impacted the tree can also spread to other parts of the yard, which could mean other trees will need to be removed if they aren’t treated in time. Removing the stump prevents anything from growing on it and potentially causing more serious issues that could injure pets and children or spread to other parts of the yard and the home.
Takes Up Space in Yard
The stump is going to be in the way of the yard, which can mean it’s more difficult to mow and remove weeds in the immediate area. The stump alone can be an eyesore that can lower property values, but it’s even worse if the stump is overgrown and difficult to care for properly. By removing the stump, it’s possible to keep the higher property value and to use that space in the yard for something new, whether that’s a place for the kids to run and play or the perfect spot to plant a new tree. Removing it eliminates the eyesore and makes it easier to care for the yard or garden, plus it makes it possible to enjoy the yard more.
Roots Can Still Grow and Cause Damage
Even though the tree itself is gone, the roots connected to the stump can still grow. The roots will continue to spread out, potentially breaking underground pipes to find water. The pipes can crack and burst, which can lead to flooding in the home and a contaminated water supply. Since the roots grow underground, this might not be noticeable until there is a problem inside the home or with the home’s water supply. At that point, it’s going to be far more expensive to deal with the problem. On top of needing tree stump removal for the roots, it’ll become necessary to repair and replace the plumbing running to and from the house where it’s been damaged.
The Tree Can Grow Back
The stump may look dead, but it’s possible for it to still have new growth. The area that was cut could start to heal , and a new tree could start growing for it , or the roots can cause sprouts to grow far from the original tree, leading to new trees throughout the yard. Since these aren’t planted where they’re convenient, it’s entirely possible they will pop up a little too close to water supply lines, right next to the house, or even underneath the kid’s trampoline or playhouse. The best way to prevent these new trees from sprouting is to ask a professional for tree stump removal.
How to Remove the Stump
Since it’s likely the stump will need to be removed, it’s important to know who to call for help. It doesn’t matter how long ago the tree was removed. The stump can still be removed or ground into the soil. It’s a good idea to call in the pros for this job. Smaller stumps from trees under a couple of inches in diameter may be possible to dig out of the ground. Dig down near the tree, cutting the roots, and then remove the stump itself. Stumps can be heavier than they appear, so this is a job that requires muscle to do. If the tree was more than just a couple of inches thick, though, it’s not a good idea to DIY the job. Trying to pull it out with a truck can cause significant damage, and it may not be possible to dig the stump out of the ground. The pros have the right tools to get the job done.
Are you dealing with an unsightly stump in your yard after having a tree removed? If so, it might be a good idea to have it removed to prevent all of the potential issues listed here. Call Lakeshore Tree Care to schedule a consultation and learn more about how they can help completely remove the stump from your yard.
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