Tree Root Removing Tools

Removing a tree root can be expensive and difficult. More high-tech equipment generally used to remove tree roots can cost a pretty penny to rent, while using a spade and flat file to manually remove the tree roots is a lot of work. Still, removing the eyesore called a tree stump makes the process worth it, as long as you have the right tools.

Stump Grinder

Stump grinders are one of the tools used to remove stumps from the ground. Stump grinders are gas-powered machines that use a grinding wheel to chop the stump into pieces. The grinding wheel digs into the ground and then grinds into the stump a few inches. The grinder costs around $380 a day as of 2009. Stump removal services generally cost between $90 and $150. Therefore, hiring stump removal specialists cost less money than renting a stump grinder to remove one stump yourself.

Shovel

Prior to using the stump grinder, a shovel is used to dig around the stump and remove any rocks that might damage the grinder. Clearing away dirt and rocks will also make the stump grinder easier to use.

Chain Saw

Chain saws are used to quickly cut off as much of the stump as possible, allowing the stump grinder to be used much more quickly. Those removing roots should try to cut off as much of the stump as possible. Chain saws will chop off much of the stump faster than a stump grinder.

Digging Spade

A digging spade can serve as an alternative to the tree root removal. A trench is carved out around the tree with the spade, usually after a good rain. Then there will be plenty of space to work on removing the stump. Using the spade is safe and cheap, but takes much more time than using the stump grinder.

Flat File and Hammer

A flat file is used to sever each part of the root system. The bladed part of the file is pushed into the root and a hammer is used to hammer the flat file into the root until the file has cut all the way through the root.

Chemicals

Root removal chemicals help speed up the decomposition process of the roots. However, this process is very time consuming. One type of chemical used is potassium nitrate, which feeds fungi and causes wood to rot.

Burning

Fire can be used to burn roots out of the ground. While inexpensive, using fire to burn out roots might not be feasible because the fire might not receive enough oxygen to continue burning. However, there are chemicals that can be used to make the stump more flammable and porous, facilitating burning. However, those using this method should keep flammable material away from the stump and have an extinguisher ready to put out any out of control fires. They should also check to see if burning is legal in the area where the stump is located and acquire a burning permit and all other necessary permissions.