FAQS

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What is the best type of equine surface for my arena or track?

The ideal surface depends on the intended use (e.g., dressage, jumping, racing, etc.), climate, and maintenance capabilities. Contact us for a professional assessment so that we can help you choose the best surface.

How long will an equine surface last?

The lifespan of the surface depends on factors like the type of material, usage, climate, and maintenance. With proper care, most surfaces last several years before needing a refresh or replacement.

Do you offer installation services?

Yes, we offer complete installation services, including ground preparation, surface selection, and installation to ensure the surface is durable and safe.

How can I prevent my equine surface from getting too hard or too soft?

Consistent maintenance is key. Proper drainage and occasional rejuvenation of the surface material can prevent it from becoming too compacted or too loose. It’s essential to work with us to deliver you the best surface all year round.

Can I install an equine surface myself?

Some surface types may be suitable for DIY installation, especially out CLOPF fibres, if you’re experienced and have the necessary tools.

What is the cost of installing an equine surface?

Costs vary depending on the surface material, arena size, and installation complexity. Contact us for an accurate estimate or to arrange an onsite visit.

Is your equine surface suitable for all weather conditions?

Many equine surfaces are designed to work well in various weather conditions, but certain types may perform better than others in wet or dry climates. For example, synthetic surfaces with proper drainage systems tend to perform better in heavy rain. Waxed surfaces tend to not freeze in extremely cold periods and generally do not require any irrigation.

Do you offer resurfacing services?

Yes, resurfacing is a common service, especially for older arenas or tracks. It can involve adding new material or additives to refresh the surface and improve performance.

What are the benefits of using a synthetic equine surface over natural materials like sand or dirt?

Synthetic surfaces typically offer better consistency, durability, and lower maintenance requirements. They are often engineered for improved performance, drainage, and safety, making them ideal for frequent use.

How do I prevent dust in my arena or track?

Dust is common with natural materials like sand. To reduce dust, moisture control methods, such as using a binder, emulsion, or installing a sprinkling system, can help.

Can your surfaces be used for both indoor and outdoor arenas?

Yes, our surfaces are suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. However, certain materials may be better suited for indoor arenas with controlled environments, while others may be more appropriate for outdoor use with exposure to weather conditions.

Do you offer drainage solutions?

Proper drainage is crucial to the longevity and performance. We offer drainage solutions to assist with the subgrade drainage.

Do I need to buy specific equipment for my arena surface

The answer to this is yes. Waxed and dry surfaces need different care. All surfaces are dynamic and respond to climate change and workload. You should not use a chain harrow or other agricultural piece of equipment as they can cause a lot of harm to the surface. Depending on the size and type surface we have a piece of equipment you can purchase for the job.

How do I maintain/groom my surface?

Prior to using your recommended piece of equipment, rake back on the perimeter of the riding track, any loose material from the retaining boards or edges by means of a rake or four pronged fork.

When maintaining your surface do not go in the same direction twice, always groom in alternate directions and vary the starting point to as many different locations as possible. If using a Towmaster or Arena Master, maintain a consistent and steady speed i.e. active walking pace.

Can I change the depth of how the surface rides?

Yes. The going can be altered by adjusting the height of the tines and it is imperative that the tine depth is altered in stages at 1cm at a time so you create a gradual even depth.

Compaction is created with the crumbler roller and the hoof ‘cushion’ with the tines.

The deeper the tines are set, the more ‘cut’ the surface will have, the less deep the setting, the firmer the surface will ride. Try different settings ranging from 10-50mm and decide which setting suits your requirement the best.

Be careful when adjusting the tines to a deeper setting if a membrane has been installed beneath the riding surface as you don ‘t want to run the risk of puncturing the membrane during the maintenance procedure. You also need to be careful if you have lots of fibres in the surface as you don’t want to pull these out of the surface they need to be mixed into the surface.

How can I prevent my arena from freezing

If very cold weather is forecast maintain the surface with the tines of the maintenance machine 1cm deeper than usual to ensure that the surface is not too compacted. Compacted surfaces prevent surplus water from draining causing a ‘backlog’ of moisture in the surface, which can then freeze. This will apply to wax coated surfaces as well as dry materials.

Carry out this additional maintenance ideally before, or when, the frost is catching.

Check the surface the following morning . It may well be ready for a gentle maintenance pass to ease any ice crystals that may be in the surface.

How do I cope with snow on my arena

If it snows on the arena ideally allow it to melt before using. However if you have to use the arena when snow is present use common sense. If it’s a light dusting then ride carefully and don’t use the Arena Master as you don’t want to work the snow deeper into the surface. If there is a heavy cover of snow, do not leave it but remove as much as you can carefully with a shovel.

NEVER use an arena leveller or your maintenance equipment to break up snow or ice on the surface. This will create an uneven depth and compaction as well as increasing future freezing. It will also be detrimental to the components in the surface

How do I look after a dry sand arena.

Dry arena’s – without a wax coating need to be watered regularly – especially if they are indoors to ensure that it retains its stability and consistency. A correctly installed surface should be watered and compacted (with a Bomag 120 double drum roller – or similar) and groomed regularly.

During dry weather conditions, it is likely that the surface will ride with more ‘cut’ or become deep. To combat this, watering is essential to ensure that the fibres mixed into the sand are retained and don’t rise to the surface. The tines on the Arena Master should be raised so that they merely remove the hoof prints. If you allow your surface to dry out you will need to both power harrow and rotovate the fibre back into the sand and follow this with thorough watering and rolling. Once completed, the surface is ready for use.

During cold weather you will find that these dry surfaces will ride ‘firmer’ and you can adjust the tines a little deeper to alleviate compaction. Be careful not to ‘pull’ the fibre out of the sand by setting them too deep.

Do I really need to clear leaves and droppings from the arena?

Yes. Debris and horse droppings should be removed at the first opportunity as if allowed to remain they will dry out, contaminate the surface and reduce the effectiveness of the wax coating.

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