Eliminate Stumps That Get in the Way

Stump grinding and removal in Salem, Alabama and surrounding areas that clears leftover stumps from yards, pastures, and cleared lots.

After a tree comes down, the stump stays behind—often right where you need to mow, grade, or build. Stumps create tripping hazards, attract insects, and send up new shoots if left in the ground. In Salem, stump grinding and removal takes out what is left after tree removal or clearing, leaving the area flat and ready for whatever comes next. The stump is ground below the surface or fully extracted depending on what the site requires.


DT Dirtworks LLC handles stump grinding and removal across residential and rural properties in Salem. Grinding uses a machine that chews the stump into chips, while full removal pulls out the stump and root ball entirely. Both methods prevent regrowth and eliminate the obstacle, but removal is often preferred when the area will be graded, paved, or built on. Grinding works well for yards and pastures where the ground does not need to be perfectly level right away.


If you have stumps in Salem, Beauregard, Smiths Station or a surrounding area that need to come out before you can move forward with your project, reach out to discuss the best removal method for your property.

How Grinding and Removal Change the Ground

Stump grinding involves positioning a machine over the stump and using a rotating blade to chip away the wood. The grinder cuts several inches below ground level, which is deep enough to prevent regrowth and allow grass or soil to cover the area. In Salem, grinding is the faster option and works well when you do not need the roots completely gone.


After grinding, you will see wood chips in place of the stump. The area can be filled with soil, seeded, or left to settle naturally. Full removal leaves a larger hole where the stump and root ball were pulled out, but it clears the ground completely and is necessary if you plan to install a foundation, driveway, or utility line in that spot.


Grinding does not remove the root system, which will decay over time. If roots are causing issues with grading or construction, full removal is the better choice. Both methods stop the stump from sprouting and eliminate the visual and physical obstacle. The site is ready for fill, seed, or construction once the stump is gone and the area is leveled.

Property owners in Salem who are scheduling stump grinding or removal often ask about timing, depth, and what to do with the space afterward.

What People Want to Know About Stump Work

What is the difference between grinding and full removal?
Grinding chips the stump below ground level and leaves the roots to decay. Full removal pulls out the entire stump and root ball, leaving a hole that needs to be filled.
How deep does stump grinding go?
Most grinding goes six to twelve inches below the surface, which is deep enough to prevent regrowth and allow soil or sod to cover the area. Deeper grinding is available if needed.
What should I do with the wood chips after grinding?
You can leave the chips in place as mulch, mix them with soil, or have them hauled away. Many property owners in Salem use them to fill the hole or spread them around the yard.
Why do stumps need to be removed before construction?
Stumps and roots create voids underground that can shift or settle over time. Removing them prevents foundation issues, pavement cracks, and drainage problems later.
Can stump grinding damage nearby grass or landscaping?
The grinder is positioned carefully to minimize impact, but some surface disturbance is normal. Grass and soil can be repaired easily once the work is finished.

DT Dirtworks LLC provides stump grinding and removal throughout Salem for homeowners and landowners who need stumps cleared before grading, building, or simply reclaiming usable yard space. If you are tired of mowing around stumps or need the ground cleared for your next project, contact us to schedule removal and get your property back in shape.