At Timberley Projects, we have been supplying equestrian facilities, including sand schools, to our Sussex, Surrey and Hampshire customers for many years. There’s no doubt that a sand school is a significant investment for any horse owner. With that in mind, we thought we should write a post with some top tips to help you plan your sand school.
Tips to help you plan your sand school:
Location, location, location:
Not just the title of a TV show that features the UK’s choosiest homeowners. Location is an essential factor to consider when you are planning your sand school. It’s important to first think about the ease of access from the rest of your equestrian facilities; you don’t want a lengthy hack from your stables to your sand school. Thought should also be given as to whether the proposed site will be fit for purpose. It is advisable to aim for a place that is as level as possible. That said, at Timberley Projects, we have the necessary experience and machinery to be able to carry out initial groundworks. A reasonably open space is an excellent place to start. If you have high trees or hedging around your site, you may find that shade means it takes a while for your surface to thaw in winter months.
Size matters: 😉
At Timberley we have found the most typical size we are asked for is a 40m x 20m equestrian sand school. That said, we have constructed larger. It’s always a good idea to opt for the largest sand area your budget and site will allow for. That ensures maximum flexibility of use.
On the surface:
We offer a variety of surfaces, but we find the most popular throughout Sussex, Surrey and Hampshire to be a porous shredded rubber surface. A rubber-based surface is reasonably easy to maintain, and is less likely to become waterlogged or dry out. That said, All sand schools will require drainage, this is usually a herringbone soakaway drainage system which also outflows in one corner. This outflow will need to go to a watercourse.
If you have plans for an equestrian sand school in Sussex, Surrey or Hampshire, call us. We are happy to view your proposed site and discuss the best solutions for your budget.
