If you’re interested in building a horse arena on your property, you should do a little research first to ensure the project goes off without a hitch. Here’s what to consider when building a horse arena.
Horse Arena Location
When selecting a site, make sure you choose a grade that promotes the ideal amount of drainage. You should also consider orientation to the sun, wind patterns, and excavation requirements for any potential sites on your property.
Arena Size
How you’ll use the arena and the number of people who will be riding at once will determine how big you should build. Remember to leave adequate space around the arena for parking, trailer turnaround, horse turn-out, and a riding area. During the initial planning phase, set out brightly colored flags along the future building’s perimeter to give you an idea of how much space it will take up.
Horse Arena Footing
How often do you plan to use your arena and for what disciplines? These factors affect the ideal footing you should use. Working with a qualified footing specialist is the best way to ensure you end up with the perfect solution for your needs.
Horse Arena Moisture Management
The drainage system you choose should be based on the soil at the site, typical rainfall for your area, and other factors. An experienced arena builder can help guide your decision on the most efficient way to control moisture levels in the arena.
Arena Retaining Wall
Installing a retaining wall along the perimeter of your horse arena helps with footing retention and improves the overall appearance of the building. In this way, the installation is both functional and eye-catching.
Horse Arena Logistics
Be prepared to change your plans if necessary. Excavating into rock, for instance, may force you to relocate the entire building. Remember to consider other logistics as well:
- If you build stalls, where will the water for the horses come from? Do you need to drill a well?
- How will manure be managed and stored?
- How will hay be unloaded and stored?
- Do you have somewhere warm to clean tack during the winter? Will you have access to hot water and/or a wash stall?
- Do you need bathroom facilities in your arena?
Horse Arena Cost
Receive a few estimates for horse arena construction and footing installation in your area. If you can’t pay everything out of pocket, secure a loan from a lender that’s familiar with the agricultural business and understands your vision.
Horse Arena Maintenance
Don’t expect to build your arena and be done with it. To ensure the footing rides optimally and your horses stay safe, you must maintain it. Horse arena maintenance—which includes watering and grooming the arena, removing debris, and performing regular depth checks—keeps the surface level and evenly compacted. Your arena is an investment and requires dedicated maintenance. Maintenance required may vary by use and other factors. Consult with your contact at Kiser Arena Specialists on the best maintenance plan for your arena.
Horse Arena Building Restrictions
On top of everything else, your city and county may have rules and by-laws regarding horse arena construction. You may need to speak with the board of health, conservation department, zoning department, or other authorities to discuss factors related to building a horse arena.
The best way to navigate the construction process is to rely on Kiser Arena Specialists for the job. Our arena building and footing installation services are second to none in the industry. We have decades of experience and use high-tech laser grading for guaranteed results.
To learn more, or to request an estimate for your custom horse area, please contact us today! We are based in Gainesville, TX, and build arenas across the U.S. and around the world.