Rustic is unpainted timber.  All rustic timber is given at least 2 coats of preservative which can be either clear or stained (dark).  Please let us know if you have a preference.  Stained timber will tend to give a more uniform finish while clear will allow all the anomalies and idiosyncrasies of the timber to show (knots, surface cracks etc).

Painted timber is given a primer/undercoat and at least 2 coats of gloss.  While gloss paint takes between 24 to 48 hours to dry (depending on the weather conditions), it can take several weeks to fully harden, even longer in cold damp conditions.  This should be taken into account for new orders as unhardened paint is more likely to take damage during transportation for example.

While we endeavour to give the best possible finish, no paint is immune from damage (and horse jumping is a rigorous activity!), so reasonable care should be taken when handling and storing.  A small pot of paint should take care of any touching up needed if any paintwork should sustain any damage during handling or jumping.  Paintwork can be easily cleaned with a mild detergent and a suitable cloth or plastic scrubbing pad for example, if not used too enthusiastically!

Poles are made from solid wood which have been milled and pressure treated.  This ensures an even girth (diameter) and a relatively smooth finish.  However it is important to realise that there will be imperfections  on close examination, but these will not impair the suitability for use in jumping or other equestrian activities.

They will be quite heavy, (especially the 12 foot poles), but will vary in weight due to different densities of the wood used which will vary from pole to pole.

Uprights (stands), and other components

Uprights are made from pressure treated timber.

All other components are usually made made from untreated timber.  However, ALL timber that is likely to come into contact with the ground in normal use is given a minimum of 2 coats of timber preservative (clear or stained).

Pressure Treatment.

Pressure treatment is a process used to maximise the durability of the timber.  This process involves forcing water and chromated copper arsenate into it.  This discourages the invasion of wood softening agents, especially insects.  This is a high risk when wood is in contact with the ground.

It is important to note that pressure treated timber is subject to visual cracking or splitting which is a normal reaction when the timber dries out.  As mentioned, this is normal and in no way degrades the strength of the timber as the fibres remain intact along the length of the timber.  This will be visually more apparent with rustic than with painted constructions.

Only Bolts and Screws are used in construction.  No nails are used anywhere.  This ensures a solid build, but without the risk of separation if nails were used (and they can be tightened up if necessary), and the hazard that nails could cause if timber should become separated or damaged.

All major components (load bearing) are fixed with either coach bolts or hexagonally headed screws.  Other components have normal Philips head screws used.

The standard range of jumps and accessories are not designed to be dis-assembled.  However, they can be by removing the screws and bolts if necessary which may be useful for repair or transportation.  However, this would likely cause some damage to paintwork, and coach bolts may need forcing out using a hammer and metal rod which could damage the threads or surrounding timbers, which is why we do not advise this unless really needed. We cannot take responsibility for damage caused in an attempt to dis-assemble our standard jumps and fittings, unless they are specifically designed to do so.

If you require removable components (such as feet), please specify this when ordering.