Drainage is all about getting water off the arena at an efficient pace without causing erosion. This can be done many ways.
- The arena should be higher than the outside grade, and no water from the perimeter should be able to get onto the arena.
- The arena should only have to deal with the water that falls from above.
- The arena should be pitched properly to allow the water to flow evenly and efficiently in the least distance possible.
- For the very best arena drainage, a free-draining base or a good mat system would allow you to ride after a very heavy rainfall.
We have successfully installed mats and grids to eliminate water problems in arenas, but have also used them in many unique areas. These systems can be used for any drainage issues around your farm. Scroll down to see some ways we have used the grids and mats, as well as fabric barrier.
Grids
One of the most common uses for drainage grids is within an arena base. These grids are used to provide better drainage in a free-draining base. They provide extra stability for the base and also require less base material. The grids will allow for good stability and the best drainage possible.
Grids cost from between $2.00 - $4.50 USD per square foot, depending upon their thickness.
The grid system provides excellent drainage and is not limited to arena use. Because they stop erosion and provide such excellent drainage, they have numerous application options.
Grids can be used on steep embankments where erosion can cause slick surfaces. We have used them on roads, riding paths, and walking paths.
Grids can also be used in paddocks or around water troughs and bathing areas. Grids are a system worth exploring for any drainage issue around your farm.
arena MATS
Equestrian Buffer Underlayment SYstem (E.B.U.S.)
E.B.U.S. mats consist of a flat surface and are very light in weight, making them easy to install. They provide excellent drainage and amazing concussion values (bounce and forgiveness) for the horse and rider. The mats allow water to pass through easily and consistently. The mats are made from recycled rubber and are good for indoor and outdoor use.
These mats do not hold moisture in the footing, but they will help provide a safe and solid layer between the rock and the surface.
*4 to 5 inches of loose footing is required over the mat.*
OT-40 Concussion/Traction Mats (installed by E=MC Arenas)
The OT-40 Concussion/Traction Mats provide a barrier between the stone and footing surface as well as extra stability to the base. Mats also provide concussion benefits by absorbing more concussion than a traditional base. In addition to a safety feature, if the footing gets low in an area, the horse will hit the mat and not cause any damage to the base or the animal. The footing can be re-graded and the area fixed very quickly. This same concept works if a harrow hits the mat.
*4 to 5 inches of footing will be needed over the mat.*
Fabric Barrier
When using a heavy duty fabric as a barrier between the clean stone and surface, it is very important that the fabric is installed correctly. The fabric will provide an excellent barrier but just needs a little more care and attention. The fabric layer is very cost effective. When installing a free-draining base with fabric instead of mats there is a considerable savings.
* 4 to 5 inches of footing will be needed over the fabric.*
Unique Drainage applications
The systems we have illustrated above are just some of the ways we are able to help customers with their problem areas. There are multiple solutions we can offer depending upon your drainage problem and your budget. Below are some photos of walking paths and roads where the clients had specific issues they needed to address. We were pleased to offer them practical, cost-effective solutions.
