You’ve likely heard the phrase ‘horses for courses’, which means that there’s always a solution for a particular situation. That’s certainly the case when it comes to finding the best and most suitable concrete for use in an equine environment.
In this post we will look at the features that SRC Agricultural ready mix concrete solution contains, and why it makes the perfect surface for horses. We also show how those features help the concrete to survive and thrive on an equine property, be it a farm, stables or riding school.
The unique demands of equine properties
The best concrete for equine properties is an agricultural mix; which is one of a number of SRC mixes used in the agricultural environment.
The benefits of using a mix which is suitable for this application include:
It creates a strong-wearing and damage-resistant surface, which protects it from abrasion
It will be able to support heavy loads from machinery
Chemical-resistant
A smooth and clear finish for cleaning, loading etc.
Additionally, the inclusion of fibres can also improve the properties of the concrete:
Micro fibres will reduce bleed and therefore enhance the surface strength.
They will reduce the likelihood of plastic cracking as they are an alternative to crack control mesh.
Macro fibres which will increase:
Durability
Impact resistance
Flexural & tensile strength
Macro fibres will also replace the necessity for steel reinforcement.
Preparing for ready mix concrete
There are several steps you can take to ensure that your site is ready:
Prepare the ground: Allow sufficient depth for not only the concrete but also for a sub-base and a damp-proof membrane (DPM)
Add in some extras: For the sub-base, add some Type 1 hardcore and compact. Type 1 is also available from SRC Group.
Compact the soil: Creating a level base.
Adding a DPM: Add a DPM to the entire underside of the slab to help provide the final product with protection from damp as well as any chemicals that are already present in the ground. For the freshly poured concrete, it will assist in the hydration process and reduce the risk of the concrete drying out too quickly; which will also help to reduce the occurrence of plastic cracking.
The build: The formwork then needs securely erecting at the same depth as the slab. For this application the concrete depth should be ≥100mm.
Important: Prior to delivery, make sure that you have all the necessary tools, such as rakes, shovels and levels, as well as sufficient labour. Also consider accessibility, as the mixer truck is typically 10m long, 3m wide & 4m high.
Final steps
Discharge and compact the concrete, ensuring that the consistency is appropriate.
Once poured and finished, cover the concrete with polythene sheeting to protect it from the wind and direct sunlight. This will help prevent the concrete from drying too quickly, thus minimising plastic cracking and a dusty weak surface.
Choose SRC Group for the best concrete for equine purposes
SRC Group is proud to be an accredited and sustainable construction business that offers a range of premium ready mixed concrete that is approved to BS8500 and BS EN 206 quality standards.
Our friendly team of experts is ready to design, deliver and install the perfect concrete surface specifically designed for your equine environment. Contact us today to find out more. You can call us on 0208 594 0169, email us at enquiries@www.srcgroup.co.uk or fill out our online contact form.
At SRC Group, we invest in our processes to ensure we deliver the best quality and service for our customers.
