Arena refurbishment….whats best to use?

[littleshetland]

5 years ago we put down our 40 x 20m arena. It was very well constructed by a local company who we,ve used before. It’s got excellent drainage, a membrane, tons and tons of silica sand (I can’t remember the exact amount, but it’s got a good 4 - 5 inches spread evenly). The problem is the surface. At the time of construction I was recommended an inexpensive carpet fibre topping which is ok when we’ve had a lot of wet weather, but during dry spells it fluffs up into clumps and becomes rather uneven causing tripping and mis-steps, and it’s so dusty! I’d like to replace it now and as I said, I’m very happy with the basic construction, it drains fantastically well but I’d really like to replace the carpet fibres with something better. OH has suggested mixing in rubber to help ‘bind’ the fibres? Or would it be better to remove the carpet fibres and replace with something else?
All anecdotes and suggestions gratefully received!

 

[ycbm]

I would be tempted to try one ton of rubber chip and spred it 2 inches thick on a section of the outside track and see how it works in practice, then complete the process if you are happy with it.
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