When it comes to the safety and performance of your equestrian arena, footing is everything. Whether you’re building a new space or upgrading an existing one, choosing between handling the installation yourself or hiring professionals can feel overwhelming. After all, the right footing isn’t just about your horse’s comfort, it’s about ensuring long-term durability, proper drainage, and minimizing maintenance headaches down the road. So, how do you know which route to take: DIY or professional installation?
If you are wanting to do it yourself, there are some important things to consider before your installation.
DIY Arena Footing Installation
For those who love hands-on projects, a DIY installation can be a satisfying and budget-friendly option. But before you dive in, it’s important to understand the full scope of the work involved. Installing arena footing isn’t just about spreading material. There is a lot of careful planning, preparation, and precision required to avoid long-term issues like uneven surfaces or poor drainage that can lead to an unsafe environment for your horses and possibly costly repairs if done incorrectly.
Benefits of DIY Installation
Cost Savings
If your primary goal is to save money, DIY could be a great option. By eliminating labor costs, you can allocate more of your budget to high-quality materials that Performance Footing offers for even better performance and durability. Plus, if you already have some of the necessary tools, you can save even more.
Flexible Timeline
A major advantage of DIY is that you’re in control of the schedule. You can work at your own pace, making adjustments as needed without waiting for a contractor to come available. This flexibility is especially valuable if you want to take your time getting every detail right.
Control
Installing your own footing gives you complete control over the project. For many property owners, there’s a sense of pride and satisfaction that comes with doing the work themselves. You’ll also gain valuable knowledge about the right footing materials for you and how to maintain your arena in the long run.
Challenges of DIY Installation
Time-Intensive
DIY projects often take longer than expected. Depending on the size of your arena, the installation could take days or even weeks to complete. Plus, possible mistakes during the installation process can delay the project further and result in costly fixes later.
Equipment Costs
While you might save on labor, specialized equipment—like compactors, graders, and leveling tools—can be expensive to rent or buy. These costs can add up, potentially reducing the savings you were hoping to achieve by going the DIY route.
Professional Arena Footing Installation
If DIY sounds like more than you want to take on, or if you prefer the peace of mind that comes with a professionally installed arena, hiring experts may be the best option. While the upfront cost is higher, professional installation offers experience and efficiency that can save you time and prevent future headaches.
Benefits of Professional Installation
Expert Precision
Professionals know how to grade surfaces properly, install footing materials, and ensure adequate drainage which are all essential for creating a long-lasting arena. Their experience helps minimize mistakes and delivers a more polished, functional result.
Time Efficiency
With a professional team, what could take you weeks can often be completed in a matter of days. This is especially beneficial for larger arenas or if you’re on a tight schedule. A faster installation means your arena is ready for use sooner, with fewer delays and complications.
Guaranteed Quality
Most professional installers offer warranties or guarantees, so you can rest assured that your footing will perform as expected. They also have access to equipment that may not be available to the average DIYer. Things like excavators and compactors are often needed to prepare the site, and may not be easily available for some people.
Challenges of Professional Installation
Higher Upfront Cost
Professional installation comes with a larger initial investment due to labor and equipment costs. However, it’s important to consider the long-term benefits. Proper installation can reduce future maintenance needs, ultimately saving you money in the long run.
Finding the Right Contractor
Not all contractors have experience with equestrian arenas, which can make finding the right one a challenge. Be sure to look for someone with a proven track record in arena footing installation and request references or examples of past work to ensure they understand the unique demands of your arena.
At Performance Footing, when our clients ask for an experienced contractor in mind for their project, we can help them find a great one.
Which Option Is Right for You?
The choice between DIY and professional installation depends on your priorities. If you’re working with a smaller arena, a tighter budget, and the willingness to learn, DIY might be the perfect fit. However, if time, expertise, peace of mind, and long-term reliability are more important, professional installation can be well worth the investment.
Your arena footing is the foundation for a safe and successful space, whether for riding, training, or competitions. Making the right choice between DIY and professional installation can save you time, money, and stress in the long run. At Performance Footing, you’ll be in the right hands either way. Whether you choose to take on the project yourself or hire professionals, we offer high-quality footing materials that ensure your arena will perform at its best for years to come. Contact us today to explore your options and get expert advice tailored to your arena’s unique needs.