DIY Network

Sandbox Makeover A rundown sandbox gets a facelift with boulders and colored sand. From "Grounds for Improvement" episode DGFI-403

David Dewhirst tried to build his children a sandbox, but to no avail. The weeds that had overtaken the play areas were out of control. With a little help from David's tractor, Jackie Taylor and Dean Hill help the Dewhirsts get rid of all the weeds and start from scratch. After grading the area, they use a compact utility loader to move boulders of all sizes to begin the framework for two bigger and bolder kids' sandboxes.

The Dewhirsts' yard: before

The Dewhirsts' yard: after

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	Figure A
	Figure B
	David Dewhirst already had a tractor, but if you don't own one, don't worry: they can be rented at reasonable rates.

With the larger boulders in place, Dean and Tracey set smaller stones to divide the areas for the two sandboxes (figure A). Metal edging and landscape fabric are installed to hold the sand in the new boxes, and then Dean has a clever idea of cutting pool noodles and slotting them over the edging to make the sandboxes kid-friendly. Who knew pool playthings could work in a yard? To give the sandboxes some color (figure B), pink and purple kid-safe play sand is poured into each box for a fantastic finish.

Tools:

tape measure
level
shovel
water hose
hammer
drill
ladder
rake
miter saw
wrench
hammer
wheelbarrows
compact utility loader
circular saw

Twin Sandboxes

Materials:

colored sand
boulders
hammer
garden fabric
utility knife
pool noodles
aluminum nails
metal edging and stakes

1. Clear out the weeds and grass from the desired area.

2. Set the boulders in place using the compact utility loader.

3. Use marking paint to outline the play area.

4. Dig a trench around the edge of the play area and add the metal edging; use metal stakes to hold the edging in place and a hacksaw to trim any ends that overhang.

Figure C

5. Add the landscape fabric, securing it with aluminum nails; the fabric will keep the sand from seeping into the soil or washing away. Use a utility knife to trim and shape the fabric (figure C).

6. Make a slit down the middle and the entire length of a swimming noodle. Slip the noodle over the metal edging.

7. Add the sand.

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