Removing a fully-grown tree from your property can be an arduous task at the best of times. Between sawing off the limbs and felling the trunk, there’s a lot you must do. It’s work fit for an entire team of professionals. When you finally get a tree down to its stump, though, you might not know how to continue. But tree stumps are unsightly, and getting rid of them is always the best way to maintain the look and functionality of your landscaping. Use these tips for safely removing a tree stump from your yard to approach this process in the best possible way.
Wear the Proper Protective Gear
As you first approach your stump removal project, you must equip yourself with the right safety gear. Like any yard task, this process requires the aid of dangerous heavy equipment. Because of this, you must wear protective hats, work boots, thick clothing, and safety glasses. Doing so will be the key to preventing a catastrophic injury. Ensure that you wear these items the entire time you’re near your working site to reduce your overall risk.
Dig Out the Roots First
Once you’re ready to start, you also want to ensure you dig up the stump’s roots before doing anything else. These long tendrils can extend several feet away from the trunk, giving it a strong base that’s difficult to remove with sheer force. So, you must sever the roots ahead of time and stop them from working against you for this task to go off without a hitch. Depending on the size of the tree, you can cut them with a saw or even a sharp-bladed shovel.
Apply a Chemical Stump Remover
Another helpful tip for safely removing a tree stump from your yard is to apply a specialized removal agent to its surface. Such chemicals break down the wood and soften it, making it easier for you to pull it out of the ground. They also make it possible to break the material into smaller pieces for transport.
Use the Right Extraction Equipment
But, if you don’t want to wait for the chemicals to do their job, the fastest way to remove a tree stump is to dig it out with a skid steer. These machines excel at digging deep into the ground and transporting heavy materials across job sites. As such, they’re perfect for moving the bulk of your tree stump quickly and effectively when equipped with durable skid steer tires.
A smooth tree removal process not only saves you from extra labor but also helps you make your yard neat much sooner. So don’t let a stump sit idle for another day.