You’ve taken down a problem tree — but the stump is still sitting in your yard like an eyesore. While it might seem harmless (or even “rustic”), leaving an old stump can cause more trouble than you think. Whether it’s in the middle of your lawn or tucked away near a fence line, that stump can create safety risks, attract pests, and even lower your property value.
If you’ve been putting off removing it, here are five reasons to get rid of that old tree stump now — and why professional stump grinding is the best solution.
1. Prevent Pest Infestations
One of the biggest hidden dangers of an old stump is that it attracts unwanted pests. As the wood decays, it becomes an open invitation for termites, carpenter ants, wood-boring beetles, and other insects.
These pests aren’t content to stay put — once they’ve settled in, they can migrate to other trees, shrubs, wooden decks, fences, and even the framing of your home. If you’ve ever dealt with termite damage, you know how expensive and disruptive it can be to repair.
Real-world example: A homeowner in Northern Virginia left an old stump untouched for two years. By the time they called for help, termites had spread to a nearby shed, requiring thousands of dollars in structural repairs.
Bottom line: Removing the stump eliminates this risk before it becomes a costly problem.
2. Eliminate a Hidden Safety Hazard
A stump might not look dangerous at first glance, but it’s a tripping hazard waiting to happen — especially if it’s partially hidden by grass, leaves, or snow. Children running through the yard, guests visiting your home, or even you while mowing the lawn could easily trip over it.
This is particularly dangerous in low light or during gatherings when people aren’t paying close attention to where they step.
Liability matters: If a visitor or delivery person gets injured by tripping over your stump, you could be held responsible. That means potential medical bills, legal headaches, and insurance claims.
By having the stump removed, you’re not just protecting yourself — you’re creating a safer outdoor space for everyone who visits.
3. Stop Unwanted Tree Regrowth
Even though the tree above ground is gone, the roots beneath the surface are often still alive. Those roots can send up new shoots, producing small saplings around the stump.
These shoots compete with your other plants for water and nutrients, and they can be difficult to control. Cutting them back repeatedly is time-consuming, and without removing the root system, they’ll just keep coming back.
The fix: Professional stump grinding removes the stump and grinds down the root system, stopping regrowth in its tracks and saving you years of frustration.
4. Improve Your Curb Appeal and Property Value
When it comes to the appearance of your yard, first impressions matter. An old stump can make an otherwise well-maintained property look neglected or incomplete. If you’re thinking about selling your home, that visual flaw could be enough to turn off potential buyers or give them bargaining power to lower your asking price.
On the flip side, a clean, stump-free yard looks more polished and cared for — which can help boost your home’s appeal and even its value.
Think about it: Would you rather show off a wide, open lawn or one with a decaying stump in the middle? The choice is clear.
5. Make Room for Better Landscaping Projects
An old stump doesn’t just take up space — it takes up usable space. That patch of yard could be transformed into a flower bed, vegetable garden, fire pit area, play space, or even the site for a new tree planting.
Removing the stump opens up possibilities and gives you flexibility for future projects. It also makes mowing and yard maintenance much easier, since you won’t have to navigate around that obstacle.
Extra benefit: The wood chips left after stump grinding can be repurposed as mulch for garden beds, helping to control weeds and retain soil moisture.
Why You Shouldn’t DIY Stump Removal
You might be tempted to tackle stump removal on your own, but it’s a bigger job than most homeowners realize. Stumps are often deeper and more firmly rooted than expected, and without the right equipment, removal can be slow, exhausting, and even dangerous.
JL Tree Service uses professional stump grinders that can handle large, stubborn stumps in tight spaces, safely and efficiently. We also take care of cleanup, so you’re left with a smooth, ready-to-use yard.
JL Tree Service: Your Local Stump Removal Experts
For nearly 50 years, JL Tree Service has helped homeowners in Northern Virginia, Maryland, and Washington, DC keep their yards beautiful, safe, and healthy. Our team of ISA-certified arborists and experienced crews provide fast, thorough stump removal backed by decades of expertise.
- Fast turnaround — often within days of your call
- Experienced crews who handle all types of stumps, big or small
- Full cleanup so your yard looks great immediately
- Free estimates with transparent pricing
Don’t let that old stump keep causing problems.
Call JL Tree Service today at 703-359-4444 or request your free quote online. We’ll help you reclaim your yard, improve your home’s safety, and make room for something new.
