How to Use Recycled Tires As Equine Footing
Recycled rubber can successfully be used as footing for equine arenas not only because it doesn't produce dust, but also because it is flexible cushioning for the horse. Installing an arena of rubber chips can be a sound investment, as rubber footing is durable while being forgiving on both horse and rider.
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Things You'll Need
- Land
- Measuring tape
- Base material
- List of rubber footing companies
- Rubber footing
Instructions
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Research common base materials to make an informed choice. Conventional elements include sand, dirt and clay dust. Recycled rubber footing is not used alone, but as a top layer over a firmer, more substantial base layer. According to FootingsUnlimited.com, a base for low-impact pleasure riding should be between 4 and 6 inches deep. A base for higher-impact activities, such as jumping or reining, should measure between 6 and 12 inches. Your base will determine the drainage capabilities of your arena, so it should be carefully installed.
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Select the type of rubber you would like to use. Recycled rubber comes in two forms: granular pieces or flat chips. FootingsUnlimited.com states that granular rubber is generally best used in conjunction with a base made of firm sand or stone dust, as it makes the footing looser and less compact. Flat rubber pieces, on the other hand, act to help stabilize the footing, so flat rubber is best used with a looser sand base.
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Measure your arena so you are able to calculate how much rubber footing you will need. For best results, use at least 1 pound of rubber per square foot of arena. Using more than 2 pounds of rubber per square foot will alter the surface so much as to be detrimental to the horse.
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Shop around. Many companies offer recycled tire footing for equine arenas. According to HorseKeeping.com, it is important to find a company which ensures that its product contains no metal pieces, as these have been found in footing made of recycled tires.
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Grade the base footing to optimize drainage.Unless you are experienced in construction, this is best left to the experts. When you are ready to begin construction, the rubber footing can be delivered to your stable. The base layer must be completed before you install the rubber coating.
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Tips & Warnings
When selecting a rubber product, remember to factor in shipping. The product's price will increase according to the distance it must be shipped to your barn. A guarantee that the footing contains no metal pieces left over from the tires can be well worth a price difference if it means that your new arena will be safe for horses to use.
According to HorseKeeping.com, black rubber can become quite hot and uncomfortable on your horses' hooves. Although rubber is available in different colors, black rubber might be best saved for indoor or covered arenas.
References
- Photo Credit stack of old tires image by JoLin from Fotolia.com
