Mats: Skid Protection
Stall mats offer exceptional skid protection as they provide a a soft foundation for the feet of those loved and mischievous animals. Stall mats ought to be durable and should stay together nicely. Replacing them every couple of months should not be necessary because the durable mats ought to provide years of use, for skid protection and comfort. It ought to be known, there is a large variety of mats to choose from:
* rubber mats
* recycled mats
* the rubber cow mat
* everything in between
The benefits of the mats are enormous, when they stay together. Include the following benefits offered with the efficient mat:
* drainage; no standing or falling in puddles of urine
* added safety for all; this is for animals and people. The slick surfaces pose safety threats. A non-slick surface is often a priority for everyone
* added comfort; Any animal, standing for long periods of time, will find added comfort with a mat because hard surfaces tend to cause pain
* an affordable choice; the prices tend to vary. If you need to cut the budget, there are some quality options. Many individuals choose products which can be streamlined into their own cleaning process
* different types of finishes to choose from; the right style will match the needs of the buyer
Durability is a priority, for many. This is because some animals need to stand in their stalls for long periods of time. Many consumers like the idea of investing in a recycled cow mat made from 100 percent recycled rubber. This is because they are viewed as benefitting the environment and providing a green choice. Many consumers opt to go with a completely non-absorbent mat for the added safety. The rubber cow mat can be made from recycled material and will prove to be very sturdy too.
Useful Ways: Keeping Mats Together
All stall mats are going to be more effective when they stay together. Some individuals opt to go with a simple and cheaper solution, to keep the mats firmly in place. They claim that a Gorilla Tape can be used, on the corners, in places where the mats are connected in order to keep them secure. This tape can be used in any area where the mats are to be connected. This can be used in order to keep the mats secure and together firmly. Many mats are known to shift and gaps may form in them if let unattended and under maintained. It ought to be noted, Gorilla Tape tends to be quite secure as it blends in with the mat. There are some other permanent solutions to keep mats together:
* construction; mats can be cut and made to fit securely in spaces. This will require measurements, cutting pieces spare pieces may need to be fit into place, often blue screws are used to keep mats secure and solidly aligned. This may take a little more time to complete this project in a professional manner as compared to the Gorilla Tape idea. The right tools will be necessary if the mats are going to be aligned and meshed securely in place
* small anchors; small anchors can be used to keep mats in place. The anchors will keep many unwanted particles out as they keep the mats in place. This will look very clean and professional as they keep mats in their rightful place
* steel sleeves; the steel sleeves are going to eliminate any contact between the anchors and the rubber mat. They are screws and they are sharp so they will work well. The sleeves are larger in terms of diameter as compared to screws. They are smoother too. This is going to foster a much smoother surface. The mat will be pressed pressed against the surface in a permanent way. The sleeve is going to stop you from over tightening (the anchor).
It is always a good idea to ask questions, if you are unsure about a procedure. Hardware store professionals or online merchants are usually very helpful with providing tips to get the mats together properly.
Quality Tools: Mats, Secure and Together
Keeping mats together, can be done by the average person. Even if they do not have professional carpentry skills. There are some useful tools to complete this projects efficiently:
* the standard drill; an average drill which works through concrete
* a Tapcon drill bit ( usually 3/1 by 31/2 works well)
* Measuring Tape (the standard holes between the mats)
* a Sharpe to mark the holes
* a vacuum to eliminate excess debris
* a drill bit (3/8 should work well, ensure it works well with rubber)
If you are completing this as a DIY project, you can view a YouTube video to get standard directions, if needed. If you are going to hire someone to secure the mas together, you will be informed about the various options.
Other Ideas: Secure Mats
Some individuals have opted to purchase nylon spacers (thick). They only cost around 50 cents a piece. They can be screwed right into the ground. Usually 1/2 inches in thickness will work. They can be screwed right below the top of the mats. They can be easily lifted up for any needed cleaning too.
