Frequently asked questions about the
Risohorse® Ebb-and-Flow riding surface system
Technology and operating principle
How does the Risohorse® Ebb-and-Flow riding surface system work?
In the Ebb-and-Flow system, the riding surface is watered and drained from below based on the capillary principle. This means that moisture rises through the sand’s capillaries into the upper footing layer or is removed again through the capillaries.
How is the Ebb-and-Flow system constructed?
A waterproof liner is laid as the base, with drainage pipes installed on top and connected to at least one control shaft positioned outside the riding arena.The footing layer is built up above the drainage pipes. At the main control shaft, a control unit is installed that uses a pressure sensor inside the shaft to regulate the moisture content in the footing layer – following the principle of communicating vessels: the moisture level in the riding surface corresponds to the water level in the control shaft.
What does “sub‑irrigation system for riding arenas and indoor arenas” mean?
“Sub‑irrigation system” is the technical term for the Ebb-and-Flow system. Unlike overhead sprinklers, water is deliberately stored in the drainage pipes so that moisture rises into the footing layer via the sand’s capillaries.
What does the pressure sensor in the chamber control?
The pressure sensor continuously measures the water level in the regulation chamber and thus the moisture content in the footing layer. If the measured value deviates from the target value set on the control unit, the system automatically adds or drains water until the desired moisture content is restored.
For which types of use is the system suitable?
The Risohorse® Ebb-and-Flow system has been developed for all common applications in equestrian sport: outdoor riding arenas, indoor arena surfaces, lunging circles, lunging arenas, training tracks and paddocks. Disciplines include dressage, show jumping, driving and polo – for both private facilities and competition venues.
Can the system be adjusted to different disciplines and types of use?
Yes. Via the control unit, the Risohorse® Ebb-and-Flow system can be adjusted to the specific requirements of each equestrian discipline and type of arena.
Materials
What layers does the footing consist of?
The standard footing build‑up consists of two sand layers: the drainage sand layer and the upper footing layer. In total, the footing has a thickness of approximately 30 cm.
Which sand is used?
We only use sands that meet our quality requirements in terms of fines content and grain size distribution. If a sand meets these technical specifications, it can usually be sourced from regional suppliers, and we are happy to review any contacts you may already have.
Which liner is used?
Since the founding of Dammann Reit- und Sportplatzbau GmbH, we have used a 0.5 mm PVC liner for projects in Germany and abroad. The liner is manufactured by recognised international companies such as Sika or Riflex, and is prefabricated by our specialist supplier to match the respective project.
Welche Drainagerohre werden verwendet?
We use PE full‑perforated drainage pipes with a diameter of DN 110.
Are additives used in the footing?
Depending on the properties of the sand used for the upper footing layer, additives may be required to achieve the necessary shear strength. Our aim is always to keep the proportion of additives as low as possible. Which additives and which quantities are appropriate is something we discuss with you during the planning phase.
Care and operation
How much ongoing maintenance does the system require?
The daily maintenance effort is significantly lower than with conventional riding surfaces, because moisture regulation is fully automatic. You still need to remove manure, leaves and foreign objects, and to work the surface regularly with a groomer. Depending on how intensively the arena is used, the surface should be levelled again at agreed intervals.
How does the system behave in winter?
Towards winter, the moisture content in the system is reduced to a lower winter setting. Before frost sets in, the riding surface should be smoothed with the groomer to avoid uneven areas. You will receive more detailed information during the handover and instruction after completion.
How much water does the system use?
Water consumption depends on the size of the arena, the location and the weather conditions. Because the system only tops up when the moisture sensor reports a demand, consumption is lower than with overhead sprinkling. We deliberately do not quote a flat figure, as too many individual factors play a role.
How long do the sand layers last, and when does the sand need to be replaced?
The service life of the sand layers depends on how intensively the arena is used and on regular maintenance. When operated correctly, the sand layers can be used for many years. Whether replacement is advisable is assessed based on the condition of the footing layer – we support you with this assessment. In most cases, the upper footing layer is replaced, and the removed sand can often be reused for other purposes, depending on its condition.
Planning, construction and costs
What do you need to prepare before construction – earthworks, power supply, water connection?
Which tasks you can take over yourself is agreed with you during the planning process. Often, the basic earthworks and formation level are provided by the client. On site, you will need a power supply (the exact voltage and amperage requirements are specified for each project), a water connection with sufficient pressure and a suitable drainage solution. Excess water can be discharged into the public sewer system, a cistern or an appropriate infiltration area – we discuss the most suitable option with you during planning.
Can well water be used – and what if the iron content is high?
Well water can generally be used. If the water has a high iron content or contains impurities, we recommend installing a filter unit upstream of the system.
Do you need a building permit?
In most cases, riding arenas are subject to planning permission and the legal requirements differ depending on the federal state and on whether the arena is built inside or outside the designated building area. We recommend clarifying this with the relevant local authority at an early stage and obtaining qualified support for the approval process.
How long does construction take, and when can the arena be used?
Construction time depends on the size of the arena and on how far the earthworks have progressed. Once the earthworks are completed, installation of the Risohorse® system can usually proceed quickly. After completion, the riding surface can be used immediately; during the handover and instruction, we explain what to watch out for in the initial period until the footing has fully settled.
How much does an outdoor arena or indoor arena surface with the Ebb-and-Flow system cost?
The cost depends on the size of the surface, the location, the ground conditions and any additional equipment such as edging or additives. We do not quote flat-rate prices, because they rarely reflect real projects. Please contact us – we will gladly prepare a non‑binding quotation based on a few key details such as arena size and location.
Company and service
Since when has the Risohorse® Ebb-and-Flow system been available?
The Risohorse® Ebb-and-Flow system was developed by Klaus Dammann in the late 1990s. Dammann Reit- und Sportplatzbau GmbH has been continuously building and further developing the system ever since.
Are there reference facilities that can be visited?
Yes. Our references include facilities in Germany and abroad – ranging from private yards to international competition venues. You will find a selection on the references page.
Which guarantees and warranty terms apply?
The specific details are part of the offer and the contract. Please contact us directly if you require detailed information.
Do you also offer service after completion of the arena?
Yes. We are available to support you with questions and service work even after the riding surface has been completed. Depending on your needs and the framework conditions, service visits can be arranged at irregular intervals or scheduled at fixed intervals.
