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Stumps and roots

How to measure a stump: three photographs for a better quote

A close-up with a clearly readable tape measure is a good start. The surroundings and the route machinery must take are just as important when choosing a method. Prepare three different views and a few key details.

A tape measure held against a garden stump. AI visualisation.
AI-generated illustration of the topic, not a photograph of a completed project.
The essentials

Photograph the measurement at ground level, the whole stump and surroundings, and the access route. Include the number of stumps, location and intended use.

Measure the diameter at ground level

Lay a tape measure across the stump at ground level and photograph it so the scale and both edges are readable. For an irregular shape, add a second measurement in another direction. Also record how far the stump stands above the surface.

Buttress roots can be wider than the cut at the top of the stump, so show their extent too. The dimension used for pricing will be confirmed in the quote; do not dig around the stump or unknown utilities just for a photograph.

Send three views, each showing something different

  1. A close-up with a tape measure. The full measured diameter and a readable scale.
  2. The stump and its surroundings. Fences, buildings, other trees and working space.
  3. The access route. The narrowest gate or entrance, tight turns, steps or slopes.

Three nearly identical close-ups will not show whether machinery can reach the stump. If access is complicated, add another view rather than repeating the same shot.

Two stumps protruding above ground beside a tracked stump grinder.
From GREON's photo archiveInclude a readable tape measure, the number of stumps and an access photograph. This image shows stumps, not a measurement example.

Label multiple stumps simply

Make a list with a label for each stump, its approximate diameter at ground level and height above the surface. Use the same labels on photographs or a simple plan. Identify stumps with more difficult access separately.

A clear note is enough; elaborate documentation is unnecessary. Explain whether the stumps are close together or scattered across the site, as this affects planning and moving equipment. See the scale of a larger job in our account of grinding 49 stumps in Drahelčice.

Measure the whole route, not just the gate

GREON specifies a minimum access width of 1,450 mm for the grinder it uses. Gate width alone is not enough: turns, space beyond the entrance, ground strength and overhead clearance also matter. Suitability is confirmed for each site.

Mention stones, metal, utilities, wells, inspection chambers and nearby buildings. Tell us about any uncertainty in advance. Machine dimensions do not guarantee that every route of the same width is suitable.

Explain what will happen afterwards

A lawn, new planting and construction may need different working depths and widths. Also specify whether debris should remain or be removed, and whether backfilling and levelling are required.

Your enquiry can simply bring together location + number of stumps + measurements + three views + intended use. You will find current specifications and conditions under stump grinding. Photographs help with an initial assessment; unclear conditions may need checking on site.

Frequently asked questions

Should I measure the top cut or the stump at ground level?

For the initial information, measure at ground level and show the buttress roots. Include two measurements for an irregular stump. The pricing method will be confirmed in the quote.

Is a stump photograph without the surroundings enough?

Not for a full assessment. Add an overview and the access route so we can see working space and known obstacles.

Should I dig out the stump before measuring it?

Do not expose unknown utilities or undertake risky work for a photograph. Record what you can reach safely and describe any uncertainty.

Related service

Explore the related GREON service →

Sources and further information: GREON: stump measurements and access requirements. Checked on 30 October 2026.

Prepared by the GREON team. We choose the method to suit the site, access and agreed finish. AI-generated illustrations are clearly distinguished from original GREON photographs.

From advice to action

Have a site in mind?
Start with photographs.

Send us the location, photographs and the result you would like to achieve. We will recommend a method and clarify the scope and price to suit the site.