What is the proper way to build a children's sandbox?

Question

What is the proper way to build a children's sandbox so that:
1) it has drainage so that it doesn't turn into a small swimming pool when it rains; and
2) so that weeds don't grow up through the sand

Answer 1

Use landscaping mesh...

http://www.diynetwork.com/diy/ca_playground/article/0,2041,DIY_13723_2270313,00.html

Answer 2

I would be more concerned about it turning into a liter box. Build it away from any cats!!!

But, I would put a three inch layer of pea gravel at the bottom, then several inches of sand over it. That will give it great drainage and no weeds are going get through both of those layers!! It's much less expensive to do then some fancy things a sellsman will try to tell you. It's how it was done in the old days and it worked THEN...will work now.

Good luck!!

Answer 3

Sand drains relatively well on it's own. But if you are concerned you could put a layer of crushed gravel beneath the sand, perhaps 4-6 inches deep.

For weed control use landscape weed barrier fabric. If you do put gravel in as underlayment, I would put a layer of sand over the gravel then the fabric (to prevent punctures from the gravel) run the fabric beyond the walls of the sand box (or weeds will grow right against the wall).

Then add in the rest of the sand; 12" deep should be plenty of sand above the fabric.

Good luck with your sand box.

Answer 4

They should have everything you need at Home Depot or Menards including plans to build a sandbox.