How to Build a Sandpit with Wickes

In this tutorial, our Wickes experts show you how to build your very own wooden sandpit using durable sleepers. Sandpits are a safe, fun, and low-maintenance addition to any family garden, providing a dedicated space for sensory play. By following our simple guide, you can construct a sturdy, professional-grade sandpit that is designed to drain naturally and last for years, so you can enjoy the summer knowing the kids have the perfect outdoor activity right at home.

Step-by-Step Guide:

- Prepare the site: Select a flat, well-draining area with a mix of sun and shade, then measure your space to ensure your three jumbo sleepers will fit.

- Mark and cut the sleepers: Measure and mark your sleepers at 900mm, drawing guidelines around all sides before cutting them into equal halves with a handsaw.

- Seal and protect the wood: Apply wood preserver to all cut ends, following the safety instructions on the tin to prevent rot and weather damage.

- Clear the ground: Layout the sleepers to mark their footprint, remove them, and dig out at least 25mm of turf, ensuring the soil is level and free of debris.

- Lay the weed membrane: Position the sleepers to check for levelness, then set them aside to lay down weed fabric; this prevents growth while allowing for natural drainage.

- Secure the structure: Position the sleepers over the fabric. Drill pilot holes and recessed points at each corner, then fix the frame together using 150mm exterior coach screws and a ratchet.

- Finish and sand: Smooth down all sharp corners and edges with sandpaper to ensure the structure is safe for little hands.

- Fill with sand: Add your play sand (leaving space at the top) and protect it with a wooden or tarpaulin cover to keep it fresh and clean.

Shop handsaws here: spklr.io/6009BihT7
Shop drills and drill bits here: spklr.io/6001Bcwgl
Shop spades here: spklr.io/6009BxPmZ
Shop sanders here: spklr.io/6002BxPqe
Shop sandpaper here: spklr.io/6008BxPsg
Shop garden sleepers here: spklr.io/6001BxPQ5
Shop wood preservers here: spklr.io/6007BxPxL

Browse our Gardens and Landscaping How-to-Guides here for more helpful tips: spklr.io/6002Bie24

For more information and advice on Gardens and Landscaping visit our website: spklr.io/6006Bg9PM

Watch more videos from our Creative Garden Projects playlist and learn how to build a fire pit, build a sandpit, or build a herb garden!

youtu.be/4067pdbUsE8
youtu.be/PCkky5owNd8
youtu.be/ucMmZhrFYTE
youtu.be/jbeXigO3UHk

Subscribe to the Wickes YouTube channel here: youtube.com/user/wickesvideo

For more tips and general advice on how to do it yourself from Wickes, you can visit:

Wickes Website: wickes.co.uk/
Wickes Instagram: instagram.com/wickes/
Wickes Facebook: facebook.com/Wickes.co.uk
Wickes Twitter: twitter.com/Wickes
Wickes Pinterest channel: uk.pinterest.com/wickes/