Basics of Horse Arena or Menage Construction

Building a horse arena or menage involves more than creating a flat surface; proper preparation and the right materials are essential for durability, all-weather usability, and effective drainage. Whether it’s a dressage arena, horse paddock, or indoor facility, following these steps ensures a long-lasting, functional arena.

Step 1: Preparing the Formation Level

A horse arena's overall thickness should be 350–400 mm, depending on the top finish. Avoid building directly on topsoil, as organic matter blocks drainage. Remove the topsoil and repurpose it to regulate the arena's edges or for landscaping.

After removal:

• Flatten the area by filling low spots and levelling high ones.
• Ensure the base is flat and even to support the arena's structure.

Step 2: Installing Below-Ground Drainage

Good drainage is critical for keeping the arena usable year-round. A common method is the Herringbone Pattern:

• Place a carrier drain down the centre.
• Branch off with perforated or slotted side drains running across the arena.
• Ensure drains feed into a main drainage system like a ditch or stream.

Drains should be placed in trenches twice their depth and wrapped in a woven geotextile membrane to prevent clogging from soil particles.

Step 3: Adding the Aggregate Layer

The next layer ensures proper water filtration and stability:

1. Lay a woven geotextile membrane over the drainage layer to prevent mixing.
2. Add a 100 mm layer of aggregate (25–75 mm size). Suitable materials include granite, flint, limestone, or recycled crushed concrete, provided they are free from clay, sand, and other contaminants.
3. Avoid using materials with fines, as these can clog drainage over time.

Top the aggregate with a non-woven geotextile fleece membrane to improve stability and allow water to pass through.

Step 4: Selecting the Top Finish

The top finish affects both usability and maintenance. Options include:

• Silica Sand: Apply 50–100 mm to protect underlying membranes.
• Rubber Chippings or Shredded Carpet: These require a 200–225 mm layer without additional sand.
• Bark: Provides a natural finish but may need regular replacement.

Arena Construction Packages

Eco Trade Counter offers customisable horse arena packages to suit common sizes (e.g., 20m x 40m). We also provide higher-grade geotextile membranes for projects requiring enhanced durability.

Get in Touch

For tailored advice or pricing, contact us at sales@ecotradecounter.co.uk or call 0151 639 4281. Let us help you build the perfect horse arena or menage.