Yard surfaces

[YummyHorses]

Hi. Am in the process of building my stable yard, all is going well however stuck on the yard surface.

My american and hay barns are placed on concrete so its the actual yard bit that I need suggestions for. I need a surface that is suitable for horses to walk too and from fields and the school, sweeping, a wash down area, lorries and tractors to move on. I have an enormous area to cover so certainly cant afford anything fancy. Needs to be practical and affordable.

Any ideas?

Thanks.

 

[amage]

Why not just concrete? One bit of advice I would give you is forget sweeping, buy a blower! Expensive outlay initially but have the whole place looking like new in a couple of minutes and can be used on a wet day too! Have been on two yard that have one and it makes such a difference

 

[PoppyAnderson]

I'm sure it isn't on your shortlist but just in case, do not use cobbles! A bugger to sweep up and hurts horses and humans feet!

 

[horsemadelsie]

I know a couple of yards that put down planings. Was impossible to sweep without picking stones up as well, but once it was rolled flat it was brilliant for cars, no worries about it cracking with lorries driving over it, and even my barefoot youngster didn't mind walking on it every day.
Must admit though, concrete is my favourite!

 

[YummyHorses]

Thanks everyone. Concrete would be a lot of money. I am already paying 7k for the concrete under the barns. Agree that it would be the best surface.

Have seen planings - they are an option. A friend mentioned gravel which I was suprised at but she said it was great. Any thoughts?