What is stump grinding and how long does it take?
Stump grinding uses a machine with a spinning cutting wheel to chew a tree stump down into wood chips below ground level, so you can put grass, sod or a garden bed over the spot. Most single residential stumps take well under a few hours, depending on the stump's size, its roots and how easy it is to reach — and we clean up or haul the chips away when we're done.
— Why Grind —
Reasons You May Need Stump Grinding
- ✓You had a tree removed recently and want the stump gone
- ✓The stump is interfering with landscaping or lawn care
- ✓It's a tripping hazard or an eyesore
- ✓You want to prevent insects, fungus, or disease
— Our Process —
How Stump Grinding Works
1. Clear the Area
We set up safely and clear space around the stump so nothing else gets touched.
2. Grind Below Ground
Our grinder takes the stump down below grade so you can replant, sod, or landscape over it.
3. Haul Away Debris
Chips and debris are cleaned up and hauled off — your yard is left ready to use.
— Benefits —
What You Get
Improve Appearance
Reclaim the look of a clean, finished yard.
Remove Hazards
No more tripping, no more mower damage.
More Usable Space
Free up the ground for grass, gardens, or new plantings.
Prevent Pests & Disease
Rotting stumps invite termites, carpenter ants, and fungus — grinding stops it early.
— Pricing —
What Affects the Cost of Stump Grinding
Stump Diameter
Bigger stumps take longer to grind, so width across the cut is the biggest factor.
Number of Stumps
Grinding several stumps in one visit is more efficient than doing them one at a time.
Root Flare
Wide, spreading surface roots around the base add grinding time beyond the stump itself.
Access & Gates
Narrow gates, fences, slopes or tight spots near structures can affect which machine we can use.
Chip Haul-Away vs. Mulch
We can haul the grindings away or leave them for you to use as mulch — that choice affects the job.
Every stump is different, so we give free, no-obligation estimates. Read more in stump grinding vs. leaving a stump.
— Southeast Michigan —
Local Things to Know Before Grinding
Ash Stumps After EAB
The emerald ash borer killed huge numbers of ash trees across Southeast Michigan, and many yards still have the stumps. Grinding them clears the eyesore and trip hazard, helps stop sprouting, and frees the space for a new, more diverse tree nearby.
Call MISS DIG 811 First
Stump grinding goes below the surface, so underground utility lines need to be marked before work starts. Michigan's free MISS DIG 811 service handles public lines — call 811 or request online a few days ahead.
— Service Areas —
Areas We Serve
— Keep Reading —
Related Services & Guides
— FAQ —
Stump Grinding FAQs
How deep do you grind a stump?+
Can I plant where the stump was?+
Do you remove the roots?+
What happens to the wood chips?+
Do I need to call MISS DIG before stump grinding?+
— Free Estimates —
Get Rid of That Stump
Family-owned, licensed & insured, with 225+ five-star Google reviews. Call or text (734) 788-8822, or request a quote online — free estimates 7 days a week.