Grinding Services
Rid your garden of dangerous and unsightly stumps
After a tree has been removed for whatever reason the stump is often what is left. There are two options for removing your stump: stump grinding and stump removal. Stump grinding is a process using specialized machinery whereby the stump is ground back to surface level. The roots are left in this case and decay into the soil over time.
Leaving a stump in your yard can be dangerous and invites pests to make a new home. There is the potential that by unknowingly breeding pests, decay and disease in the stump, this will spread to other healthy plants and trees. Stump grinding is the simplest solution to remove a stump and maintain a healthy and beautiful backyard.
At Five Star Tree Services, we have the equipment required to grind your stump back with ease. Whether you have recently removed a tree and have a new stump, or you have been left with an unsightly stump from previous owners of your home, we can assist you. Get in touch today and we would be glad to discuss the options that you have in detail.
What Is Stump Grinding?
Stump grinding is the fastest and least disruptive way to get rid of a tree stump. A powered grinder with carbide teeth chips the stump away into mulch, usually 15 to 30 cm (6 to 12 inches) below the soil surface. The root system stays in the ground and breaks down naturally over the next few years, so your lawn, driveway and garden beds stay intact.
For most homeowners in Richmond Hill, Toronto, Markham, Vaughan, Aurora and Newmarket, grinding is the better choice than pulling a stump out completely. If you need the roots gone as well, for example to pour a foundation or build an addition, our full stump removal service is the right fit.
Why Grind a Stump Instead of Leaving It?
- Safety: stumps are a trip hazard for kids, guests and anyone cutting the grass.
- Pests: decaying wood attracts carpenter ants, termites and wood-boring beetles that can move toward your house.
- Disease: fungi that grow on old stumps can spread to nearby healthy trees and shrubs.
- Regrowth: species like maple, poplar and willow send up suckers from the stump until it is ground out.
- Usable space: grinding frees up the area for new sod, a garden bed or a new tree.
Our Stump Grinding Process
- Site check: we measure the stump, check access through gates and around fences, and look for irrigation lines, landscape lighting and buried utilities.
- Utility locates: before any grinding below grade, buried lines must be marked. Homeowners can request free utility locates in Ontario, and we can help you arrange them.
- Grinding: we use compact grinders that fit through standard backyard gates, so we can reach tight Toronto and Richmond Hill lots without damaging the lawn.
- Clean-up: we rake the grindings back into the hole or haul them away, whichever you prefer, and leave the area tidy and ready for topsoil and seed.
How Much Does Stump Grinding Cost?
Stump grinding is priced per stump and depends on a few main factors: the diameter of the stump, how hard the wood is, how far the surface roots spread, and how easy it is to get the grinder to the stump. Grinding several stumps in one visit usually lowers the cost per stump. We give clear, written quotes before any work starts, and you can learn more in our complete guide to stump grinding.
Pair Stump Grinding With Tree Removal
Many clients book grinding at the same time as tree removal, so the job is finished in one visit. Already have an old stump left by a previous owner? We grind stumps of any age and size. Request a free quote or call (416) 990-3355 to book.
Stump Grinding FAQs
How deep do you grind a tree stump?
We usually grind 15 to 30 cm (6 to 12 inches) below grade. That is deep enough for new sod or a garden bed. If you plan to plant a new tree in the same spot, we can grind deeper and remove more of the chips.
How long does stump grinding take?
Most residential stumps take between 15 minutes and 2 hours to grind, depending on the diameter, wood type and access. Clean-up is done the same day.
Will the roots grow back after stump grinding?
Most trees will not regrow once the stump is ground below grade. A few species, such as poplar, willow and some maples, can send up small suckers from the roots. These are easy to cut or mow and usually stop within one season.
What happens to the wood chips after grinding?
The grindings can be used to backfill the hole or as mulch in garden beds. If you would rather have a clean area for new sod, we can haul the chips away and backfill with topsoil.
Can you grind a stump in a backyard with a narrow gate?
Yes. Our compact grinders fit through most standard backyard gates, which is common on Richmond Hill, Toronto and Markham properties. We protect the lawn with plywood or mats when needed.
Do I need a permit to grind a stump?
No permit is normally needed to grind a stump on private property in the GTA. A permit may be needed to remove the tree itself, so check our tree removal permit service if the tree is still standing.
PaulSatisfied CustomerHello, I have been a customer for years and I have got very good experience, wonderful service and great jobs. Thank you.
- JackSatisfied Customer
Dear 5 star Landscaping , I have hired you to do tree services for me a couple of weeks ago ,although it was not an easy job your team did a great job with no damages to my property thanks
- SusanSatisfied Customer
I am really impressed with the service of this company . My tree in backyard was in a very hard location for removal but they removed it very nice and clean without any damage. Their team were very professional and polite. I will recommend them to everybody that looking for a perfect tree service. Susan