Build a Backyard Sand and Water Play Area

• 1). Cut three two-foot lengths of 1" by 6" board. You can use pressure-treated boards or other types of boards, depending on your personal tastes and how long you want the play area to last outdoors. The other two 1" by 6" boards should be cut to equal lengths. You may choose to cut them any length you want the finished sand and play area to be. For best results and most fun for children, keep it at least four feet long.
  
  
• 2). Arrange the 1" by 6" boards so the long ones are parallel and the two-foot sections are at each end and in the direct center. Use three-inch nails to hammer this frame structure together securely. Using two nails for each junction is ideal. You can also use screws if you wish.
  
  
• 3). Cut the plywood into one or two pieces that completely cover the 1" by 6" board structure. Nail these securely to the bottom side of all the boards. You are essentially making two shallow trays that are attached in the middle.
  
  
• 4). Paint or seal the entire wooden structure with waterproof product. Since this play and sand area will be outside, you must use some product that will protect it from rot and mold. Allow this to dry completely.
  
  
• 5). Position the sand and water play area wooden frame where you want it to be. You can put it directly on the ground or raise it up on a patio, a table, or cinder blocks.
  
  
• 6). Cut the styrofoam boards and press them down into the bottom of each section on top of the plywood. This will help protect the tarp or liner from damage from the boards.
  
  
• 7). Drape the plastic or vinyl liner or tarp over the entire structure. Carefully push it into every corner, folding the excess out of the way. Use the staple gun to attach the tarp to the top and sides of the wooden frame structure. Then cut off any excess that is over the top. This is more easily done with two sections of tarp: one for the sand side and one for the water side.
  
  
• 8). Fill one side of the backyard play area with sandbox sand. Do not use sand that is too fine in texture or it will make more of a mess. Fill the other side of the play structure with water. Then, simply add some small buckets and shovels, and floating toys and let the kids have fun in their new backyard sand and water play area.