Tell everyone that if it's too dry, the sand will slip and it's hard to pile up or compact, so it won’t be that strong. Heavy arches are more likely to collapse, so scrape off as much sand as you can from the sides and top before you move your hand away.

Mookie 15cm Sand Castle Bucket Set – Stewart and Gibson Ltd

If you plan to build a sandcastle taller than you, then bring a step ladder to the beach so you can reach the top. This is because where the sand that isn’t compacted doesn’t have much strength and there’s lots of space between the grains, so when the weight’s applied to the mound all the grains of sand can’t work together to support the weight. The best sand is usually below the tide line, which is also a good reason not to build too far from the shore. With one smooth, swift motion (so that you don't lose too much water), plop the double handful of sand on to your base.

The geogrid works by distributing the load evenly and increasing the friction between the layers of ground that they separate. Whether you’re competing in a sandcastle contest or looking to step up your beach activities, we’re going to give you the best tips and tricks.

Beach Toys - David S Sales Beach Toys - David S Sales

You’ll need at least two types of shovels to get your castle just right: a small shovel and a long-handled shovel. Set them on top of each other gently, shaping and jiggling the sides to settle them into a flat shape. Don't try to build straight across; you have to build upwards, partially supporting each layer on the layer below. Pick up a few tricks from all their effort and have fun building your own castle on your next trip to the beach. The film of water between individual sand grains is what gives sand its strength, too much and it lubricates one grain over the other, but just right and it binds them strong.Let it fall as far down as it will go, then quickly position your hands on either side and jiggle the sand to help it settle in even deeper. Sandcastles are background furniture objects, but they cannot be picked up; using a pickaxe or drill on them destroys them immediately.