How can I Build a Sandbox?

Children love to play in the sand. It is easily manipulated, fun to build sandcastles with and feels great squished between the toes. A sandbox will keep children entertained for hours, as there are endless ways in which they can play with it. Luckily, for parents, it is easy, and inexpensive, to build a sandbox.

There are only a few supplies needed to build a sandbox. They include a circular saw, 3 inch (7.6 cm) wood nails, a hammer and sand. The size and width of the wood used will be determined by the size of the sandbox you wish to build. A standard 4 foot (121.9 cm) by 4 foot (121.9 cm) sandbox uses one large sheet of 3/4 inch (1.9 cm) plywood, four pieces of wood that measure 2 inches (5.1 cm) thick by 12 inches (30.5 cm) wide and four pieces of wood that measure 4 inches (10.2 cm) thick by 4 inches (10.2 cm) wide.

To build a sandbox, start by cutting two of the 2 inch (5.1 cm) by 12 inch (30.5 cm) pieces of wood into pieces that are 4 feet (121.9 cm) in length. The other two are cut into 3 feet (91.4 cm) long pieces. Cut the 4 inch (10.2 cm) by 4 inch (10.2 cm) pieces of wood into pieces that are 11.25 inches (28.6 cm)in length. The 3/4 inch (1.9 cm) plywood is cut into triangles with 15 inch (38.1 cm) sides. These will be used as the seats for the sandbox and will help maintain its integrity.

Start to build a sandbox by laying out the frame using the 4 feet (121.9 cm)long pieces of wood for the front and back and the 3 feet (91.4 cm) long pieces of wood for the sides. Secure the frame together with the wood nails. Position the 11.25 inch (28.6 cm) pieces of wood in the inside corners of the frame and fasten with the nails. These will help anchor the sides of the sandbox together.

Build a sandbox seat by laying a triangular piece of plywood over one of the corners, flush with the edges. Repeat with the other three corners. Secure them to the frame using the wood nails. Smooth the rough corners and edges with sand paper to prevent injury to children.

Find a convenient spot in the yard to position the sandbox. It should be out of the way of foot traffic and conveniently accessible to children. Clear the area of rocks, grass and weeds, then lay down the sandbox frame. Fill it with clean playground sand to the desired level.

Just as it is easy to build a sandbox, it is also easy to maintain. Keep the sandbox covered with a large piece of lattice or tarp to prevent stray animals from using it as a litter box. Inspect the sandbox regularly for any rocks, sticks or bugs that may be hiding in the sand.