Preparing for Your Service

At Oak + Iron, we aim for a "Zero-Impact" service. To ensure we can get in, get out, and restore your site efficiently, we ask that you help us prepare the workspace. Following these steps ensures a safe environment and prevents delays in your project.

1. The Utility Standard: Call 811

This is the most critical step. Underground utility lines—gas, water, and fiber optics—often run directly beneath or near tree roots.

  • The Action: You must call 811 (or visit nc811.org) to request a utility "locate" 3 to 5 business days before our scheduled arrival.

  • The Policy: For the safety of your property and our crew, we cannot grind until all lines have been marked. If the markings are not visible upon our arrival, we will unfortunately have to delay your service to a later date.

2. Clear the "Blast Zone"

Stump grinding involves a high-speed cutting wheel that can occasionally displace small rocks or hidden debris within the stump.

  • Remove Ornaments: Please move any bird baths, potted plants, or lawn furniture within a 15-foot radius of the stump.

  • Clear Debris: Ensure the area is free of loose rocks, bricks, or metal landscape edging, as these can damage our equipment and create safety hazards.

3. Pet and Pedestrian Safety

While we use protective shielding to contain the grindings, the machine is loud and powerful.

  • Secure Pets: Please keep dogs and other pets inside for the duration of the service.

  • Keep a Distance: For your safety, we ask that homeowners and children stay at least 25 feet away from the machine while the cutting wheel is engaged.

4. Access and Obstacles

  • Gate Entry: If your stump is in a fenced backyard, please ensure gates are unlocked and that we have at least 36 inches of clear width for our equipment to pass through.

  • Low-Hanging Branches: If there are low-hanging limbs over the path to the stump, please let us know in advance so we can plan the approach.

5. Post-Grinding: What to Expect

Unless you have selected our Full Restoration Package, our standard service leaves the wood chips in a neat mound over the hole.

  • The "Mound": Fresh chips occupy more volume than the original stump. This mound will settle over time as the organic material decomposes.

  • The Clean-Up: We blow off any dust or debris from nearby walkways and driveways before we leave, ensuring your property remains tidy.