If you are thinking about putting in a loafing area or surfaced track but you’re not sure what surface to commit to I have created a list of my favourite surfaces that we will use around our track. Personally, I have tried a good few so here is a breakdown with the pros and cons and give you some ideas to take away.
Limestone
One of the most popular surfaces because not only does it drain well, but it seems to eliminate the smell caused by horses urinating. Larger stones are useful for drainage and top with Limestone crusher dust (6mm-dust). Dampen and roll or whacker plate the area before letting the horses on as this will create a smooth hard surface, perfect for horses who find stony areas too much. We use it in our loafing areas and areas we want to encourage speed. The only con is that it isn’t cheap!
Pencil
This is known as Pencil in Kerry, but it may not be in all quarries. Pencil is perfect for drainage and it comes in many sizes from large rock to dust and it’s relatively cheap compared to Limestone. It doesn’t handle urine as well so I would top larger rocks with Limestone, but using larger stones when rolled flat are great for sloped areas and areas you would like to slow the herd down. Also, a very pretty appearance when washed.
Pea Gravel
A small washed stone, these are fantastic for stimulating the sole of the hoof BUT they can be a bit of a pain if they aren’t installed with a little thought. For example, they can get everywhere, so think about where you are installing them add a barrier between surfaces. They work well in areas with water as they drain fast.
Mud Control
If you haven’t heard about them, these are interlocking slabs made from recycled plastic that can be laid directly onto mud (we recommend laying them down in Summer on a base of sand to keep them level and filling them with sand for added stability). They are brilliant if you aren’t sure where you want to put your track and want to try new places before committing to a permanent surface. In Ireland we are blessed not to require permission to lay farm tracks, however, if you’re in the UK or elsewhere these are the best answer IMHO because you don’t need planning as they aren’t considered permanent. They aren’t cheap but you might be able to pick up some used slabs at below market rate. Top them with sand or woodchip to avoid slipping.
Grit Sand
This is a washed sharp sand, it’s not very comfortable so I wouldn’t be recommending it for sleeping areas, but it is perfect for toileting areas. We are placing an area around the muck heap to encourage toileting in one area. The horses prefer to poop and wee on the sand as it doesn’t splash as much. It is also very easy to muck out and drains very well. Make sure you have dug out and inserted some larger rocks underneath for that drainage or it could pool and turn stinky! Can also be used as a general surface, and works well with the Mud Control Slabs.
Silica Sand
We know it’s perfect for arenas but it is also great for sleeping areas and inside shelters as bedding. It’s soft, warm, and easy to poo-pick. However, it can turn a bit stinky so make sure you have good drainage underneath so you can give it a wash. If you’re using it for bedding areas think about the location, as a light sand it can easily get washed or blown away so adding some shelter around a group sleeping area will help to reduce the wind which will be much more comfortable for your equines too.
I hope you found this article helpful, please share it with others who you think might like it too. If you’re not already following our journey we can be found on Facebook and TikTok. Let me know if you have any questions as you never know, it might inspire a future article! – Phillippa
