The tree stumps in your yard are a tripping hazard and take too much space that denies you a chance to make the most of your outdoor area. Luckily, you can grind down the tree stump to completely get rid of it. Unlike stump removal, stump grinding leaves no gaping hole behind. 

So, what factors dictate how much you pay for stump grinding? Read on to find out. 

Stump Type and Size

The tree services usually consider the stump type to determine the cost of the grinding process. For example, a stump from a softwood tree (like cedar, pine, palm, or cypress) is soft, thus easy to grind down.

On the other hand, hardwood stumps like hickory, elm, birch, ash, or beech are difficult to remove. To put it simply, the more the work time (for experts who charge by the hour), the more you pay for stump grinding. 

The stump size and the root structure also dictate the grinding price. The larger the tree stump, the more it costs to remove. Also, some tree species boast of an expansive and deep root ball that takes a lot of time to remove. Consequently, you pay more for the grinding service. 

Location of the Tree Stump

The location of your tree stump matters. Is your tree stump in an open area? Is it next to a fence or any home structure? A tree stump near bumpy roads, slopes, confined spaces, or narrow paths poses a great challenge for tree services. Such stumps take a long time to grind and may require specialized machinery to deal with. 

For instance, tree service experts may have to use a hand-held stump grinder to remove stumps in tight spaces instead of the regular grinder. For a stump behind a fence, the professionals may need a crane to lift the stump grinder into a sealed area, at an extra cost. Also, the more tree stumps you have, the higher the grinding cost. 

Debris Removal After Stump Grinding

Whether to keep or discard the stump grindings after stump removal affects the overall price. Rather than dispose of the wood chips, you can use them on your garden as mulch to insulate the soil, retain moisture, and suppress weeds. However, an extra charge will apply if you want the site completely clean after the grinding process. 

Some tree services charge a flat fee for debris removal (regardless of the stump size), while others charge per inch of your tree stump's diameter or an hourly rate. 

Keep these factors in mind as you budget for stump grinding. Also, only hire certified tree care providers to handle this high-risk and labor-intensive job. Contact a company like Justins Tree Service to learn more.