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Stump grinding before landscaping
Grind first. A stump left under a new patio, sod or fence post rots and sinks, and fixing it later means tearing the work up.
Project by project
| Project | Grind first because | Depth |
|---|---|---|
| Sod or seed | Rotting wood sinks and leaves dips | 6 inches |
| Patio or slab | Voids form as wood decays | 12 inches, chips out |
| Fence line | Posts need solid ground | 12 inches or reroute |
| Retaining wall or shed | Settling shows up as cracks | 12 inches, full fill |
Plan the order
- Remove the tree and grind the stump.
- Rake out chips or haul them away.
- Backfill with soil in layers.
- Wait a few weeks for settling if you can, then build.
Tell your landscaper
Pass along the stump grinding depth and what was used to backfill. They will adjust the grade and drainage.
Send the form and a crew that works your area will call with a price. Free, and you can say no.
Questions
Can I seed over a ground stump right away?
Yes if the chips are raked out and topped with soil.