Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
STALL MAT LAYOUT
: 12′x 12′
Cut one mat in half to make two pieces 3′x 4′.
Interlockingrubberstallmatsreduceproblemswithbulgingandcurling.Aswithany
mat, the base must be tamped and leveled for best results.
It is important to note that stall mats work best if they are topped with about 8 inches of
bedding and the damp and soiled bedding is removed regularly to prevent drainage between
the seams or along the edges down to the base, where the urine could pool and cause an
odor problem. Stall mats are initially expensive but an investment well worth their price.
Old conveyor belts don't make suitable stall mats because they are too hard and slippery.
They would be better put to use for a stall lining or pen windscreen.
Drainage flooring.
Grid-style flooring has holes of various sizes in it to allow urine to
drain through into the base and subbase. Therefore, consider drainage-style flooring only
if your barn is on a very well-drained site that is engineered for such use, or use it in stalls
that have drains. Grid flooring is available in large sheets that are rolled up like linoleum,
as 1-by-3-foot sections or 1-foot by 1-foot tiles.
Stall mattresses.
Stall mattresses have been used in the dairy industry for years but have
only recently been modified for use in horse stalls. Usually, a stall mattress system con-
sists of two parts: a mattress and a cover. The mattress is a thick rubber cushion filled with
recycled rubber. The cover is made of latex or urethane-treated rubber and fastened to the
side of the stall with plastic strips. Plenty of absorbent bedding must be used to soak up ur-
