How To Remove A Stump With A Chainsaw?

Do you have an unsightly stump in your yard that’s been making your home look more like a forest than a garden paradise? Well, don’t fret!

Removing a stump with a chainsaw isn’t as daunting as it seems. Chainsaws are strong instruments that can easily handle even the most difficult tasks, such as removing a large tree stump. But don’t let the thought of using a chainsaw scare you.

In fact, with the right tools and a bit of know-how, one can easily get rid of that pesky stump and be one step closer to achieving the outdoor oasis of your dreams.

Can you remove a Stump with a chainsaw by yourself?

Yes, it is possible to remove a stump with a chainsaw by yourself. However, it is important to consider safety, as stump removal can be difficult and potentially dangerous.

When stumps require special tools, are too large or difficult to remove, or need to be removed quickly and effectively, it’s best to hire a professional.

How To Remove A Stump With A Chainsaw? Step By Step Guide

Removing a stump with a chainsaw is a safe and effective way to get rid of an unwanted tree stump. This task can be completed with the right safety precautions and the correct tools. 

Here are some tips on how to remove a stump with a chainsaw.

1. Safety Precautions

Safety should always be your priority when using a chainsaw for any purpose. Before beginning any chainsaw work, be sure to wear the proper personal protective equipment, such as work gloves, safety glasses, and hearing protection. 

The chain of the chainsaw should be sharpened to an appropriate size for the tree stump. If the chainsaw is not fitted correctly, it can create a dangerous kickback.

2. Clear the Area

To properly remove a stump, you must first clear the area around it. Clear away any dirt, rocks, and grass that can interfere with the cutting process.

You should have plenty of room to work and the stump should be completely exposed.

3. Peel Away the Bark

Once the area is clear, the next step is to peel away the bark and dirt on one side of the stump. This will create an area in which to start the saw. Make sure to peel away enough bark to make it easy to get the saw into the wood.

4. Start Cutting

Now that you have the tree stump exposed, it’s time to start cutting. Start cutting the outside of the stump and work your way around it. 

Some people find it helpful to throw away the dirt that the saw cuts through to make cutting easier. Do not cut through the stump as it will hit the dirt and dull the chain.

5. Cut Down the Last Four Limbs

If you are cutting a stump from a hedge, you may need to remove four limbs that run over the fence. Use a rope to pull the limbs over the fence without dropping them on the other side.

6. Replace the Bar and Chain

It is important to replace the chain and bar of the chainsaw after cutting down around 10-13 trees. Keeping the chain sharp will prevent the saw from dulling while cutting wood.

7. Use a Wedge

To take some of the weight off the saw while cutting, use a wedge on one side of the tree. This will allow the saw to penetrate the wood more easily.

8. Use a Tarp

Using a tarp can help make it easier to move the chips and keep the saw out of the dirt. Clogging the saw with dirt and mud can be prevented this way.

9. Cut the Last Stump

Last but not least, you can use the chainsaw to cut through the stump. To prevent the saw from becoming clogged, make sure to clean the moss off the fence boards.

How do you Hollow a Stump with a chainsaw?

Hollowing out a stump can be a great way to put a piece of wood to use instead of taking the trouble to remove it.

Whether you want to use the hollowed-out stump as a flowerpot, to make a decorative item, or simply for landscaping and gardening purposes, hollowing it out with a chainsaw is an easy way to do it.

Before you begin, it’s important to be safe. Wear appropriate protective gear like safety glasses and a face shield, steel-toed boots, and hearing protection. Using a sawdust collection system will reduce the mess, and you should wear gloves to protect your hands from the saw.

1. Trim Off the Top of the Stump

The first step in hollowing out a stump is to trim off the top of the stump. This will help you to create a level surface and will make the next steps easier.

To do this, start by measuring the desired depth that you want your hollow to be. Then, use the chainsaw to cut off the top of the stump at the desired depth. Make sure to cut the top in a straight line to create a level surface.

2. Map Out the Area of the Stump You Want to Remove

The next step is to draw a plan of where you want to cut off the stump after you have cut off the top of the stump.

Measure and mark the area on the stump where it should be removed with a tape measure and a marker. Mark the stump in a straight line where you intend to remove it.

3. Drill Around the Mapped Area

Now that you have the area of the stump mapped out, it’s time to drill around the perimeter of the mapped area.

Drill several holes around the area mapped with a drill bit that is the same size as the chainsaw blade. If you want your saw blade to fit in the holes, you must drill them deep enough.

4. Smoothen the Top and Edges of the Hollow

After you have drilled the perimeter holes, smooth out the top and edges.

To do this, use a file or a rasp to smoothen the edges of the hollow. It will be easier to use the hollowed-out stump for whatever purpose you had in mind if you do this. It will make the hollow more aesthetically pleasing as well.

5. Finish the Job

Once you have smoothed out the top and edges of the hollow, it’s time to finish the job.

Using the chainsaw, cut around the perimeter of the hollowed-out area one more time. This will help to create a smooth and even surface.

Now that you have hollowed out the stump, you can put it to use for whatever purpose you had in mind. Whether you want to use it as a flowerpot, a piece of art, or for your gardening and landscaping needs, the hollowed-out stump can be a great option.

Over To You!

With a chainsaw, you can remove an unwanted tree stump safely and effectively. As long as you take the necessary safety precautions and use the correct tools, it can be a relatively easy task to complete.

Always wear the proper protective gear and make sure to replace the bar and chain after cutting down enough trees. 

Taking the time to properly prepare the area, including peeling away the bark and dirt, can also help make the process easier.

Following these tips will ensure that you can safely and effectively remove a stump with a chainsaw.