Children love to play in the sand and build creative castles. A backyard sandbox doesn’t take up much room and it doesn’t require carpentry skills to build.
Raised Bed Kit Sandbox
Garden supply companies sell a great variety of raised bed kits, in a wide range of prices as well. These raised bed kits could easily be used for a sandbox and some are very attractive.
They come in a variety of materials including cedar, recycled plastic, composite wood and even faux stone. The raised bed kits are designed for easy assembly. It is best to choose a raised bed kit that has at least a 5-inch depth.
The benefit of a raised bed sandbox is that it can be used as a raised garden bed when the kids get older.
Choosing a Sand Play Site
When choosing a sandbox site, be certain it is an area of the backyard that doesn’t get too much sun. It should be easily viewed from the house. The area should also be flat.
Prepare the area, by mowing the grass very short and then cover with weed barrier fabric. The fabric will eventually suffocate the grass, yet it will allow the sandbox to drain and keep the sand clean. Secure the fabric with plastic stakes made for weed barrier fabric, but do not stake so tightly that the fabric rips.
A 4-by-4-foot sandbox would require about 25 50-pound bags of play sand. It may be possible to save money by ordering the sand from a landscape company. Tell the landscape company representative the dimensions of the sandbox and the depth desired and he or she can estimate the number of cubic feet necessary.
Tractor Tire Sandbox
An old tractor tire can make a very simple sand play area. Since black absorbs heat, the tire could get too hot in the summer sun. To avoid this problem, paint the tire white or some pretty pastel color.
Follow the instructions above for preparing the site with weed barrier. Then just place the tire and fill with play sand.
Kiddie Pool Sandbox
Plastic kiddie pools can be found at garage sales for bargain prices. A small kids pool would make a small and easy sandbox for a toddler. It requires little preparation. Poke some drainage holes in the bottom and fill with sand. Be certain, however, that the plastic is sturdy enough to handle the depth of sand that is put in it.
To reinforce the kiddie pool walls and make the sandbox more attractive, dig into the ground, about four inches deep, and partially (or wholly) submerge the pool into the earth. Then surround the pool with ornamental grasses for a natural ambiance.
