​Should I remove a tree stump myself?

The quick answer is no! Do not undertake to do this job unless you are a tree surgeon.
 
The process of removing a stump isn’t as easy as you might think. There are certain things you need to know when removing it properly and it's best to know exactly what you’re getting yourself into, so let us explain.
 
Why should I remove the tree stump? Can’t it stay there?
Yes, of course it can stay there, but here are some reasons why some people choose to have tree stumps removed:
 

• Tree stumps are unsightly. Stumps can make a beautiful garden look messy. Tree stump removal is an easy way to improve the look of your garden.
•  Many people decide to remove tree stumps when looking to sell their homes, as it can be a factor that puts potential buyers off.
  
• Stumps take up space. Could its location be an area that could be put to better use?
  
• Protect your home from your tree roots.  Tree roots have been known to damage pipes or sewage lines. If you are planning on removing your tree stump, it is important to have a professional tree surgeon remove the roots of your tree stump so that there is no risk of root growth.
  
• Protect your lawn from decay and pests. Tree stumps can spread decay and invite unwanted species into your garden. For instance, termites, beetles and other wood-boring insects. Once your stump has been infected it can spread to healthy trees or shrubs nearby.
  
• A tree stump can also grow fungi, which is dangerous for pets and small children. It is best to get the entire stump removed to prevent decay, mould, or infected wood from spreading.
  
• Tree stumps can be hazardous. Young children may trip over a stump or tree roots.

 
How to get rid of stumps and roots? 
If you’ve decided that stump removal is what you want, hiring a tree removal expert really is the best way to go. Removing a stump needs proper equipment, to ensure that the job goes ahead without any hitches.

​They will know the best way to remove the stump, whether that be burn or grind the stump down. By having the proper equipment there will be little damage to the rest of your garden.
 
Using a stump grinder is the easiest way to rid your lawn of your stump and only takes a couple of hours.
 
Burning the stump is cheaper than stump grinding, but takes much longer time to be effective, up to a couple of days. Once the chemical mixture has spread within the stump, it will be set alight. The tree will smoulder. Once it has burned and cooled down, the stump will be easy to break apart and remove.
 
As you can see, either route requires specialist knowledge, which is why we recommend that you call the professionals in.
 
At Tree Surgeon Essex, we offer the following tree services across Havering, Brentwood, Basildon and Chelmsford:
 
Tree pruning
Tree removal or felling trees
Pollarding
Crown lifting or Crown raising
Crown thinning
Stump grinding
Hedge trimming
Emergency tree care
 
Call us today on: 01708 578 017.