wood barn floor

Question
Hi!  We have been told that it is not suitable to have a wood barn floor in our horse stalls and that we should opt for cement.  Other people have told me that cement is bad for the horse and we should do wood.  Could you please give me your advice?
It is very much appreciated!

Karman

Answer
hi karman,
well wood rots and cracks which can cause the horse to get a splinter if the bedding in thin enough. concrete is sturdy but hard. the best way isnt always the most expensive. its best to not have a floor just the dirt and put rubber matts over it. that way the dirt doesnt mix with the bedding and its still soft for the horese. o would recommend putting sand on top of the dirt and then the rubber matts. this will prevent any rocks bothering the horses. if you dont want to do the dirt then i guess you should go with the wood and put rubber matts over it. just empty out each stall at least once a month so it can dry out. remove the bedding and the matts and let the wood be exposed to dry.this will kill any mold that is growing from the urine seeping through. good luck
amanda groff