If you don't want to put a mini plastic sandbox in your garden, but rather want to build a practical and durable sandbox yourself, then a solid base is recommended. First, stake out the sandbox, then dig out the ground there.
How deep should the sandpit be dug?
For the base of a sandpit, you should dig the ground to a depth of around 15 cm. The ideal filling consists of tested play sand and a gravel base with a breathable film to ensure water drainage and weed protection.
The depth of the excavation depends on the planned substructure and/or the existing subsoil. It also plays a role how high the sandpit should be or at what height the play level should be. By excavating deeper, you can lower the level of the sandbox so that the seating level is at ground level or just above it.
What substructure should my sandpit have?
A substructure made of gravel and a breathable film that is attached to the wooden structure are often recommended. This means that water can later drain easily from the sandbox and weeds will have difficulty growing in it. Here, an excavation of around 15 cm depth is recommended.
A substructure made of old paving slabs is also conceivable. However, water that gets into this sandbox builds up very easily. Such a sandpit should always be covered when it rains.
What do I fill the sandbox with?
Sand is available in many places and at different prices, but not everyone is suitable for a sandbox. You probably pay attention to the quality of the wood you use to build a sandbox so that it doesn't harm your children. The same should apply to the sand. Because this can also contain harmful substances or germs.
For this reason, you should only buy tested play sand (€12.00 on Amazon) and not use cheap sand from the gravel pit. Play sand is checked for harmful substances and germs and must be free of them. It also contains no clay, which could leave permanent stains on your children's clothing. Fill the sandpit about halfway with sand, measured from the bottom to the top edge.
Preparations for building the sandpit:
- find ideal location
- Specify the size and shape of the sandbox
- Set the height of the sandbox
- Choose substructure
- Dig up the soil appropriately deep
Tip
For a sandbox with a gravel base, you should dig the bottom about 15 cm deep.