How to Burn a Stump with Diesel, and is it Safe?

Billy had an ugly stump in his yard, and he wanted it gone. Billy tried to haul the stump out of the ground with his truck and some chains. The stump took the whole bumper off. Billy’s friends laughed at him, and now Billy’s sad. And the worst part is, the stump is still there.

Do you have an unsightly stump? Don’t be like Billy. There are other tried-and-true methods for getting rid of an irritating stump; one of those methods is wielding the power of fire and hot burning diesel fuel. If you’re wondering how to burn a stump with diesel, you’ve come to the right place.

Is it Safe to Burn With Diesel?
Diesel fuel is known to burn hot with a fire that lasts and lasts. But is it safe to use outdoors? Diesel contains sulfur and other hazardous compounds, but because of United States emission laws, the diesel you will find in the store is relatively safe to use.

Check with your local fire department to stay up to date on burn laws before you attempt to set any fire on your property.

Steps to Burn a Stump with Diesel

1. Using a chainsaw, cut the stump down as far as you can.
   
2. At an angle, drill holes all over the top of the stump, going about 12 inches down.
   
3. Pour a chemical accelerant, such as potassium nitrate, in the holes. Follow that with boiling water to dissolve the chemical.
   
4. Let the stump sit for two weeks. During this time it will rot and soften.
   
5. Pour diesel fuel over the holes and let it soak into the wood for a few days up to a few weeks.
   
6. Dig a hole around the perimeter of the stump, and clear away any combustible debris. Consider building up a rock wall around the stump to contain the fire.
   
7. Using some kindling, light a fire on top of the stump, stand back, and let it burn.
   
8. The diesel fuel will drive the fire on, possibly for several days. Be sure to spray the ground around the fire to prohibit it from spreading and to avoid starting an underground root fire.
   

There you have it. You removed the ugly stump, and now your yard (and your bumper) will thank you.

No Time? Call Buffalo Stump Removal
Do you have a stump, or multiple stumps, that need to be gone, pronto? Call the experts at Buffalo Stump Removal for all your residential or commercial stump removal needs. From stump grinding to multiple stump removal, we do it all, and for the lowest price.

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