Case Study: Flooring for the Horse Stable

Case Study: Flooring of Horse Stable 

Choosing the important flooring for a horse stable is extremely important. With the wrong type of flooring, it can hurt the horse. With different floors, there are different ways to maintenance it. Some owners might not want to always clean the floors and waste a large amount of money so these aspects need to be considered too. Other aspects that are  considered when choosing a floor is if its non-odor retentive, provided traction, durable and lastly, affordable. Below is a chart that breaks down most of the materials used for floors.

X = Poor, + = Good, ? = highly dependent on other factors

Here are two floor types that are typically used with various to them:

Porous Floors

This type of floor usually helps water movement down into the ground. Some of the materials that usually makes up this floor are as followed:

• Topsoil: Different types of soil will result in different drainage options. Also when used, it could create mud or puddles which will lead to uneven footing. 
• Clay: Traditionally a horse stable's favorite flooring. 
• Sand: Needs to be replaced frequently. Horses who feed off the ground might ingest it.
• Road Base Mix: Depending on the location, the mix will be different. Usually 4-5 inches think over a 6-8 inch base of sand or small gravel.
• Wood: Used less because its very expensive. Difficult to disinfect. 
• Grid Mats: Used to support another type of flooring. 

Impervious Floors

A floor that has become rather popular due to low maintenance and durability. Some of the materials that usually makes up this floor are as followed:

• Asphalt: A type of material which is alternative to concrete. A mixture of stone and sand held together with a tar compound. Uncomfortable for horses to walk on but after a period of time, it will feel more comfortable.
• Solid Rubber Mats: Typically used over another flooring to support or aid it. 

Different rooms and areas of the horse stable requires different materials. The aisleways should be somewhat similar to stalls. The feed room should have a type of floor which is low maintenance and rodent proof. Tack room are usually impervious floors such as concrete or asphalt. Wash area should be a non slippery impervious floor which helps with drainage or have a slope towards a drain. 

Links:

http://extension.psu.edu/publications/ub036

http://horses.about.com/od/horsestablesandsheds/tp/Choosing-The-Right-Flooring-For-Your-Horse-Stable.htm