There are many different materials you can use to enhance your outdoor living space, but few are as versatile as sand. You can use sand to be merely decorative or to serve a specific function. If you like the idea of bringing sand into your landscape, here are a few ideas to consider.

4 Ways to Use Sand in Your Outdoor Living Area

1. Build a Zen Garden

Adding a Zen garden to your outdoor living space can provide you with someplace to meditate and relieve tension. You should start with a soft sand surface and add a few decorative rocks, honoring the Japanese tradition of bringing the elements of earth together. Some people also add a few potted plants, but this is a personal choice for you to consider.

2. Protect Your Flower Garden

Over time, the boundaries you set for your flower garden can erode and become less defined. You can obtain sand from most stores that sell building supplies, which you can add to the outer border of your garden. The sand will keep the soil from eroding and help you maintain a definitive border around your gardens. There are specific types of sand that are ideal for this type of landscaping, so ask your supplier about sand that will prevent erosion and allow for better drainage.

3. Create a Safer Play Area 

You can build a play area that’s a little safer by adding a sandpit, which will offer a softer landing for children to prevent minor playground accidents. When shopping for sand to use in a playground, be sure to explain your project to your supplier. They can provide you with medium-coarse sand that’s ideal for play. In addition to providing a safer play surface, medium-coarse sand is less likely to be tracked out of the play area.

4. Protect Your Pavers

You can also use sand to fill in the gaps between your paver stones. The primary reason for using sand to fill these gaps is to provide more support for the stones, so they’ll be protected from damage. The sand will keep the stones from shifting out of position, while also creating a sturdier walkway. Additionally, adding sand can create a more attractive walkway, especially when you match the color of the sand to the tone of the stones.

Sand and other materials that you can buy from an established supplier can help you enhance your outdoor living space. Located in Cincinnati, OH, Western Hills Builder Supply provides commercial contractors and residential homeowners with the supplies they need to complete any landscaping or hardscaping project. You can view the quality of their materials in the stone wall outside of the Cincinnati Red's stadium. The family-owned business has more than 90 years of experience in helping customers get the materials and supplies they need. To learn more about the sand and gravel they sell, visit their website, or call them directly at (513) 574-6200.