Installation

 

FootingFirst provides a range of options to meet your requirements, whether it is a full installation from start to finish, on-site management throughout the installation process, or service and support customized to your needs.

 

Installation is critical to a successful, long-lasting arena. FootingFirst often works with a recommended contractor in the region during installation to ensure the best and most professional installation possible.

 

Footing needs to be installed on a properly compacted base that has been laser-leveled with a laser guided unit. This specialized unit can have the base leveled within 1/8 of 1”. This is extremely important when installing 3” of loose material. If the base is not leveled correctly, you will have an inconsistent footing that may be 2" in some areas and 4" in others. This type of inconsistency can cause injury to horses.

 

Because the base is your foundation, you will want to make sure that you have the correct layers beneath, and that they are compacted properly. Stone dust needs to have enough fineness, so that it compacts and does not mix with the footing. Stone dust that is too “clean” may not pack, causing problems further down the road. The harrow may start digging into the base, causing uneven footing that will ultimately mix with the base. In that case, your footing will have to be replaced. (See more about Harrows under “Maintenance”)