Let’s talk trees. They’re useful in so many ways, providing shade, fruit, habitats for wildlife… but they can also be at the root of many problems in land preparation. Sometimes, trees need to be removed. Luckily, this is a common occurrence, and you don’t need to be a lumberjack to complete the task.
Small Trees
Trees clocking in at an 8-inch diameter or less are considered small enough for a mulch machine to handle. Mulch machines can make quick work of such a project, as they knock those small trees over and grind them into a mulch that then spreads into the soil. This accomplishes the “two birds, one stone” method, as there is little to clean up or dispose of afterward.
A less efficient but more cost effective method to clear out small trees is with a bulldozer. While bulldozers are still heavy equipment, they are less expensive than mulch machines. The downside is that, rather than adding to the topsoil (as with a mulch machine), bulldozers cause damage when roots and attached topsoil are torn out. In addition, everything that is bulldozed needs to be disposed of in some way, which has additional costs and labor attached.
Unfortunately, hiring or renting a mulch machine can be expensive. Other methods to remove small trees that are more cost effective include [fill in later].
Large Trees
The removal of larger trees can be more challenging. First off, you need to decide if you’re going to remove the entire tree, or if you’re going to cut it down to the stump. The decision will likely be guided by the tree’s size, health, root depths, and surroundings. The classic chainsaw-to-the-stump followed by shouts of “Timber!” is incredibly dangerous if there are homes or other buildings nearby. Fortunately, there are many contractors with the proper safety gear, tools, and insurance to help with the decision and conduct such jobs at negotiable prices.
Pulling a stump (or whole tree) out and including the roots doesn’t have a one-size-fits-all solution. Smaller stumps can potentially be dug out by hand without too much effort. Larger stumps will require machine power, sturdy cables, and pulley systems.
We offer free tree & stump removal estimates! If you need one removed, contact us here or call us directly at 616-295-3982 and we will be happy to help.
