Thinking about creating a backyard kennel for your pet, but having trouble deciding what type of flooring to use? Here are some factors to consider when making your decision:

Materials:

• Concrete: Is expensive, permanent and hard on your pets joints and bones. It does not drain well
• Gravel: Is uncomfortable for pets to walk and lie on and is easy for a determined pet to dig through
• Plywood: May result in splinters, and is difficult to keep clean
• Wood chips: May also result in splinters and must be replaced frequently
• Modular flooring: Easy-to-install, self draining, comfortable for your pet to walk and lie on and the synthetic materials resist the build up of odors and bacteria
• Tarp-style flooring: Eeasily installed, portable, self draining and resist the build up of odors and bacteria

Location:

• Surface quality: Modular flooring tiles are best suited to flat, even surfaces. Tarp-style flooring will work on both flat surfaces and those which are less even, as long as the site is well drained
• Drainage capability: Even the highest quality, self-draining flooring loses its effectiveness if the surface below does not naturally drain away fluids.
• Type of space: One of the most obvious considerations is the type of available space. In some spaces it may be logistically impossible to pour concrete, in which case portable flooring may be the only option.

Functionality:

• Anti-bacterial qualities: Synthetic fibers often have a high resistance to the build up of germs and bacteria which can be harmful to your dog. Wood and concrete are more porous and susceptible to bacteria build-up unless washed vigilantly.
• Ease of cleaning and maintenance: Both modular and tarp-style flooring are easily cleaned - simply hose off with a garden hose or pressure washer. Modular kennel flooring provides an added benefit - if there is damage to the flooring, you can replace just the damaged pieces.
• Drainage qualities: Self-draining flooring is imperative to ensure liquids move away from the area. Standing water will lead to the build up of odors, germs and bacteria.
• Dig resistance: Your lawn, wood chips, and gravel can easily be dug through by a determined pet. Modular kennel tiles and high-quality tarp-style flooring are extremely difficult for a pet to dig through. High-quality tarp-style flooring can have a puncture rating of over 1200 pounds per square inch, meaning it can take a beating.
• UV resistance: Sunlight can deteriorate the strength and appearance of many materials over time, even in shaded areas. High quality synthetic flooring such as modular tiles often have UV-stabilizers added to the material.

Other considerations:

• Cost: Concrete usually has to be poured by a professional and gravel and wood chips must be replaced frequently - driving up the cost in the long run. Modular kennel flooring is a less expensive option and tarp-style flooring can be an even more economical option.
• Warranty: The availability and duration of the manufacturers warranty can be an important deciding factor if you are concerned about the durability of your flooring.
• Portability: Modular kennel and tarp-style flooring offer the flexibility of being able to move it to another location in just a few minutes if needed - not an option with concrete, gravel or wood chips. This also means you can quickly remove it and take it along if you move.
• Storage: Modular kennel flooring and tarp-style flooring can easily be folded or rolled up and stored when not in use. Plywood, wood chips and gravel are not so easily (or tidily) put aside for the next season.
• Ease of installation: The last thing you want to do when your flooring arrives is spend hours installing it! Modular kennel flooring and tarp-style flooring kennel require just a few minutes, and only basic tools (if any are required at all) to install.
• Attractiveness: There is no reason your kennel can’t look great too. Attractive kennel flooring will not only be a practical addition to your kennel, but can help enhance the look of your yard.

Only you know what will be best for you and your pet. By selecting the right kennel flooring for you and your pet, you can relax knowing your dog is comfortable and safe is harm.