How to Install Floor Mats in a Stall
A big decision when installing mats in a horse stall is what kind of mats you want to use. Mats come in varying forms, including those that can be cut to fit with a utility knife. These type of mats, however, tend to slide around and collect unwanted material under their surface. Although they are more expensive, a popular and sensible alternative is to install interlocking mats that can easily be joined together and stay in place.
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Instructions
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Decide what surface will be under the mat. The mats can be placed on well-compacted surfaces such as wood, concrete and asphalt, but another great option consists of crushed stones that are no more than 1/8 inch in size. These crushed rocks are known as fines. The big advantages with them is they drain well and are easy to tamp down and compact.
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Remove the old flooring, if you decide to replace it with the crushed stones. Break up any concrete, asphalt or wood.
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Dig down 4 to 5 inches into the ground beneath the stall.
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Dump your fines on the ground. Spread them around with a rake. Tamp down the crushed rock so that it is compact. Use a level to make sure your surface is even.
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Place interlocking mats at one end of the stall, leaving 1/2 an inch between the mats and the wall.
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Lay your interlocking mats on the floor by fitting them together like a giant jigsaw puzzle. Continue fitting them together until the mats cover the entire floor.
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Tips & Warnings
You can also place sand under the mats, but sand tends to shift around, which will make the mats move as well.
