Parents and grandparents love having a sandbox in the back yard to keep kids entertained and playing outside. When you decide to put in a sandbox, though, you should keep several things in mind before rushing out to purchase one. There are lots of cheaply made, plastic boxes you can get at toy and hardware stores, but if you are looking for real safety and durability, these aren't your best choice. If you have an attractive yard that you would like to maintain, you should also consider the appearance of a sandbox – neon colored plastic may not fit your décor. Finally, remember that a sandbox is only as good as the amount of use it gets. You may be tempted to buy one that's cute as can be, but if it isn't big enough or deep enough, the kids won't really use it.



Customizing Is Better

To end up with a sandbox that's safe, attractive and user-friendly, your best bet is to build one yourself. This doesn't mean you have to build it from scratch; there are several companies that now make kits you can order online. These usually include all of the joints and side pieces you need for your custom sandbox, and can also include protective covers or tarps and other accessories.

There are several advantages to a custom style sandbox that you assemble yourself from a kit:

• High quality materials. Sandboxes with wooden or polypropylene sides and hard plastic corner fasteners are wonderful for a nice, deep sandbox. Composite lumber side boards won't warp, rot or splinter and generally come with a warranty (something you won't find with a plastic turtle sandbox).

• Custom shapes and sizes. With many sandbox kits you can put them together in a variety of shapes and sizes to fit your landscaping and size needs. Whether you want it to be octagonal, square or have some other unusual shape to suit the layout of your back yard, building your own sandbox with composite timber sides and strong brackets. The kids will love having a sandbox that is actually large enough to hold them and their friends and deep enough to allow for plenty of digging.

• Extra safety. When you build a sandbox yourself, whether using a kit or from scratch, you have more control over safety issues like whether you line the sandbox (you should always put a liner down to prevent any plant growth), how deep the sand will be, and whether the sandbox itself has smooth, splinter-resistant, chemical-free sides.

• More attractive. You can make the perfect sandbox that will become an integral part of your back yard if you do it yourself because you decide the size, shape and color.

• Durability. A cheap, solid plastic sandbox will crack and leak within a few years. A larger, more spacious sandbox with timber or composite sides that is constructed right on the ground will last for years.

If you are ready to get a sandbox for your back yard, be sure you put as much thought into it as you would any other element of your backyard. If you invest in a high-quality sandbox, it will bring your children or grandchildren pleasure for years and you'll appreciate its attractiveness and safety.