Sand Pits

What Are Sand Pits?

A sandpit is a container, such as a large shallow box, filled with sand to be used by children. The sand must be soft, the kind usually found on beaches. Children’s sandpit can be constructed in the backyard fast and easy, presenting one of the favourites, yet very cost-effective playground equipment around. The box safely stores the sand, preventing it from spreading around. It’s commonly constructed from wood or plastics, in a variety of designs. 

Sand pits can be made straight on the soil, or feature a solid bottom, or they can be built directly onto the ground. The first option provides better drainage, while the second keeps the sand clear. However, eventually, the sand will get dirty and have to be replaced. 

Benefits of Sand Pits

Sandpits allow children to stay active and learn through play, developing great skills beyond sensory learning. Playing with sand supports creativity since it comes with few or no rules and limitations at all. Digging, exploring, constructing - everything goes, as far as the imagination can reach. 

Playing in a kids sandpit also benefits coordination and motoric skills development, particularly strengthening the arms and upper body muscles.

Finally, sand pit play can help kids to be more social and make friends. 

Sand Pits Material 

• Plastic

A plastic sandpit is usually of a smaller size, available in various designs to suit all tastes. It’s convenient to use but needs to be set up on a flat surface. Plastic sandpit can be easily filled with water and transformed into a paddle or a mud pit. This kind of sandpit with lid is effortless to move around and store.

• Wood

Wooden sandpit can be quite large and customised in many ways. It can host several children at the same time and can remain outdoors all year round, as the material is typically treated to be weather-resistant. They rarely feature a solid bottom, so the sand gets cleaned naturally, by the rain. For that reason, it’s advised to place a piece of landscape fabric underneath, in order to prevent weeds from growing in. 

Choice of Sand 

Sand pits ideally contain soft sand that easily moulds together when damp. Beach sand or fine double/triple washed river sand is a great choice. Intensely coloured sands that can stain clothes, while coarse kinds will not mould quickly. 

An average sand pool should be at least 60 cm deep, featuring extra 15 cm of gravel underneath for drainage. It is also good to have a slip-resistant flat area surrounding the sand pit.

Sand Pits Sizes

The ideal size of a sand pit is determined by the number of children that will use it. On average,   a sand pit should measure 15 sq m  for  20 kids, or  40 sq m for  60 kids. Sandpit with seats can be even larger. For home use, the size also depends on available outdoor space.

Covering the Sandpit 

• Covered Sandpit

A covered sandpit has a lid that protects the sand when not in use. Sandpit cover keeps animals away and prevents the sand in outdoor sandpits from getting too wet in case of rain.

• Sandpit Covers

Sandpits covers can be plastic, wooden, or even assembled from a piece of cloth with a heavy galvanised chain to keep it in place. They must create a perfect fit with no gaps to fulfil the purpose. Covered sandpit should be aerated daily, and allow sun and rain to penetrate, in order to preserve the sand in ideal condition.

Care & Maintenance of Sand Pits

• Investing in a quality, water repellent sealer to protect the wood is a great move. The sealer should feature insecticide and fungicide properties. Position of the sandpit matters: even a tree can provide protection, shading from the sun and holding back some heavy rainfall.
• Since the sand goes wet easily, it’s essential to secure proper drainage. Leaving the lid open from time to time will loosen the sand to allow it to breathe and dry out. Toys can get mouldy, so it’s advised never to leave them in a sandpit for days.
• Mixing a cup of salt or vinegar into the sand should repel bugs and insects.
• Sand should be replaced once every six months.

If you need help to find the right sandpit, ArchiPro provides a connection to the various professionals, ready to assist with all requirements and questions. Simply click "Contact supplier" on the product's page, or visit the supplier's website directly from the product's page.