How stump grinding works
A stump grinder uses a rotating cutting wheel with carbide teeth to chip the stump away in passes until it is below ground level. It is much faster and less disruptive than digging out the whole root ball, and it leaves surrounding lawn and hardscaping intact.
We typically grind 15 to 30 centimetres below grade, depending on what you plan to do with the area. Deeper grinding is available where you plan to plant a new tree or install landscaping close to the old stump.
Access on mountain properties
Many Canmore yards are terraced, fenced or only accessible through a narrow side gate. We use compact grinders that fit through standard gates and can be tracked over lawns with protection mats to avoid ruts.
Rocky Bow Valley soils are hard on grinding teeth, and buried rocks or old landscaping fabric can be hidden around stumps. We walk the site before starting and adjust our approach so we do not throw debris toward windows or vehicles.
Utilities and buried services
Before grinding we confirm that underground utilities have been located. Utility Safety Partners locate requests are free in Alberta, and they are essential when a stump sits near gas, power or communication lines. Private lines such as irrigation and landscape lighting are not covered by public locates, so let us know where they are.
If a stump is directly over a service line, we may limit grinding depth or recommend hand-excavation around the line.
Clean-up after grinding
Grinding produces a mound of mixed wood chips and soil larger than the stump itself. You can keep the grindings as mulch, or we can rake them out, haul them away and backfill the hole with topsoil ready for seed or sod.
Surface roots that run out from the stump can be ground along their length if they are lifting lawn or causing tripping hazards.
Our stump grinding & removal process
- Measure stump diameter and check access
- Confirm utility locates
- Set up debris shields
- Grind below grade
- Rake, haul or backfill as quoted
Frequently asked questions
How much does stump grinding cost?
Pricing is mainly based on stump diameter, access, root spread and clean-up option. Multiple stumps on the same visit cost less per stump. We quote a fixed price after measuring.
How deep do you grind?
Standard grinding is 15 to 30 cm below grade. We can go deeper where you plan to replant or build.
Will the roots rot away?
Yes. Once the stump is ground, remaining roots gradually decompose. Ground surface roots can settle slightly over time, so a little topsoil may be needed later.
Can you grind a stump in my backyard with a narrow gate?
Usually. Our compact grinder fits through most standard gates. Tell us the gate width when you request a quote.