A tree comes down and the trunk goes with it — but the stump sticks around, usually longer than anyone plans. Here's what stump grinding actually involves, what it costs, and why it's worth doing sooner rather than later.
Stump grinding vs. stump removal
These get used interchangeably, but they're different jobs. Stump grinding uses a machine to chew the stump down below grade, leaving the root system in the ground to decompose naturally over time — it's faster, less invasive to the surrounding yard, and the more common (and more affordable) choice. Full stump removal pulls the entire root ball out of the ground, which disturbs a much larger area and costs significantly more. For most residential yards, grinding is the right call.
What drives the cost
- Stump diameter. Pricing is typically based on the diameter of the stump measured across the top — wider stumps take longer to grind down.
- Number of stumps. Grinding multiple stumps in the same visit is usually more cost-effective per stump than scheduling them separately.
- Root spread and depth. Older, larger trees have wider root systems, which can mean more grinding to get below grade and clear of the surrounding lawn.
- Access. A stump in an open front yard is a quick job. One tucked behind a fence, near a foundation, or close to utility lines takes more care and time.
Why leaving a stump isn't a great long-term plan
Beyond being an eyesore and a mowing hazard, an old stump can attract termites and other wood-boring insects, sprout new suckers around its base, and slowly rot in a way that leaves a soft, uneven patch in your yard. Grinding it down and cleaning up the resulting mulch clears the way for new sod, a garden bed, or whatever you'd rather have there instead.
What we do
We grind the stump below grade, remove or spread the resulting wood chips per your preference, and leave the area ready for reseeding or replanting. If you've got multiple stumps on the property, we're happy to knock them all out in the same visit.
If you're in the St. Louis metro area and have a stump (or several) that need to go, reach out here for a free estimate.