A mailbox is a simple yet essential component of a home that enhances the ease of communication and reach. If you’re a homeowner, having a well-maintained mailbox is an absolute must.
It ensures that all your mail reaches you on time and in good condition. Even though it seems like a challenging and exhausting process, installing a mailbox is quite an easy DIY project you can undertake yourself.
The only reason why it can be daunting is following the local regulations. However, in our guide, we will discuss the step-by-step process of installing a mailbox while adhering to the rules and regulations of the government. We have mentioned the tools you would need to install and maintain it over time.
Do you wish to start this project too? We’ve got you covered!
8 Easy Steps to Install a Post-Mount Mailbox
1. Dig the Ground
You begin the project by digging a hole into the ground. However, remember that according to the guidelines of USPS, a post-mount mailbox cannot be taller than 45 inches off the street. Hence, you will have to dig accordingly. If your street has a curb, it would add a few inches more to the height. Your mailbox should ideally be about 6-7 inches behind the curb. You can also take the help of your postmaster to mark the ideal spot on the ground.
2. Add Gravel
Adding gravel or small stones at the bottom of the pit is an extra step we recommend to ensure proper drainage. It is advisable to add 4 inches of gravel which should leave you with a pit of 16 inches. This way, your post will be secure strongly and will also comply with the regulations. As we mentioned, this is an added precaution, and you can choose to skip this step and move ahead.
3. Insert the Post
The next step is to insert the post into the ground. Avoid using metal or concrete posts that won’t bend or fall to the side if hit. Instead, go for basic wooden or aluminum posts. Once you insert it, prop it up with the help of support beams. Also, remember to measure its height and ensure it is level with the ground. It is advisable not to insert the post deeper than 24 inches but at least 20 inches deep.
4. Add the Cement
A pivotal step in installing a mailbox is pouring the cement. It must be mixed adequately, should be a strong adhesive, and must be added in appropriate quantities. You shouldn’t fill in the concrete till ground level. Leave a couple of inches at the top. Check the level of the post again concerning the ground once you add it. If it has moved even slightly, ensure that you shift it back before the cement starts drying.
5. Let It Set
Give enough time for the concrete to set. This duration typically depends on the type of cement you use. You can check the concrete label for the exact details. One thing to remember is to leave your supporting beams until you are absolutely sure that the cement has set completely. Use extra timbers on the sides for added stability. Usually, it takes a minimum of four to five hours for the cement to dry.
6. Top It with Soil
As we suggested in step 4, avoid filling the entire pit with cement till the ground level. The last couple of inches you left should be filled with soil and dirt. This way, your ground won’t have a small circle of cement and can blend again with the garden soil. Once you flatten the dirt, you can plant grass on it to ensure it goes with your theme.
7. Attach the Box
One of the final steps of installing a mailbox is to mount and attach the box. The manufacturers of a mailbox usually provide a set of easy instructions that you can follow to install it on the post. Ensure that you secure it with nails and screws. Before you end your project, cross-check if you comply with all the USPS regulations and follow the rules to avoid tardy charges.
8. Paint Your House Number
According to the rules of USPS, to avoid any confusion, every mailbox should be designated with the appropriate house number. If your mailbox happens to be at the end of the street or on a different street altogether, you must put the complete street name on it as well. Also, your house/street number should be at least one inch long. After painting the address, the final step of installing a mailbox is complete.
4 Easy Steps to Install a Wall-Mount Mailbox
1. Mark the Measurements
The first step in installing a mailbox that is mounted on the wall is to take the right measurements. Select a spot on the wall that is easily accessible by the postman. You don’t want your mailbox such that the person who delivers the mail or couriers cannot find it at all. Also, ensure that it is even when you hold the mailbox flat to the wall.
2. Drill Into the Wall
Once you have your proper measurements, drill into the wall on the marks you made. In most cases, a very deep hole isn’t required for installing a mailbox on the wall. You can use basic drills for brick or masonry walls. However, it is always advisable to check the instructions provided with the mailbox so that it is stable enough and will stay mounted.
3. Insert the Hardware
Mounting shelves or racks on the wall typically needs mounting hardware. Install plastic anchors into the wall to properly secure your mailbox on the wall. If your mailbox is lightweight and designed for letters and similar official mail, it may not require additional mounting hardware. The best way is to check the instructions and ensure you’re carrying out the process appropriately.
4. Mount It on The Wall
You are now one step away from completely installing a mailbox on your wall. Once you’ve secured the nails or mounting hardware, hang the mailbox on the wall. Ensure that it is hung on an even level horizontally. We advise you to drill the screws halfway first and keep checking the levels before you drill them all the way. This is because redoing the entire project is certainly an unwanted hassle.
Innovate Your Mailbox
Once you’re done installing a mailbox, you can be as creative with it as you want! To help you find a theme that matches your garden or the outdoors of your house, we have compiled some of the best ideas to elevate a boring mailbox to a fun and vibrant one!
1. Paint It Bright
You can innovate with your mailbox and paint it in different ways. Bright and vibrant colors, colorful patterns, designs, stripes, and calligraphy for the house or street friends are all incredible ways to brighten the mailbox.
2. Plant Some Plants
Adding some green to other vibrant colors has never gone wrong. You can find a pot holder that would fit your mailbox perfectly, depending on its shape and size. Once you install the entire setup, you can put small plants in the pot to make it more lively.
3. Create a Neighborhood Library
Several times, readers have a collection of old books merely resting on the bookshelf. You can innovate and create a small setup on your mailbox for storing books. You can create one section for neighboring readers to drop a suggestion and one section from where they can pick one!
4. Create a Flower Bed
As mentioned in the above guide, you should avoid filling the cement to the brim of the pit and finish it with some soil and dirt. You can plant tiny colorful flowering plants in this top layer of soil. This way, your mailbox becomes more vibrant and lively!
5. Plant Some Creepers
You can install a small trellis along the post and plant creepers and climbers in the soil. Although it might make the process of installing a mailbox more taxing, the results will be beautiful enough to make your efforts worthwhile!
6. Build a Home
By building a home, we suggest that you construct your mailbox in the design of a home. You can paint doors, windows and the outline of a house on it. Bonus points if the mailbox is a miniature version of your own house!
7. Engrave It Into Stone
Install the mailbox into a stone structure such that it is completely encapsulated, as shown in the picture. However, you must note that installing a mailbox in stone won’t be a DIY project, and you will likely have to get it done by a professional.
8. Build a Masonry Base
Constructing a masonry base would take a lot of effort and time. Also, you will have to take the advice of professionals to get started. However, it will give your mailbox a rugged yet classy look and elevate it to the next level.
9. Add Ironwork
Installing ironwork on the post of your mailbox will give it the perfect elegant and classy look. You can add it as brackets near the top or support the post at the bottom. Feel free to innovate and implement different ideas!
10. Repurpose Old Items
You can recycle some of the old household objects like a bicycle, ladder, or a broken wheel to transform the mailbox. You can paint these objects or repurpose parts of them for your setup. It is a creative way of enhancing your mailbox.
Conclusion
As illustrated in our guide, installing a mailbox is a simple DIY project you can undertake and complete within a weekend. To install a post-mount mailbox, you need to start digging a 20-inch deep hole in the ground and filling it with gravel and small stones.
This is to increase the stability and drainage of your mailbox. Next, secure the post with support beams and pour in the cement. Let the cement dry and install the mailbox as per the given instructions.
Installing a mailbox on the wall is even easier. All you have to do is mark the position on the wall, drill some holes, hang the mailbox, and voila! Your job is done! Once you’ve installed the mailbox, you can innovate and decorate it creatively by referring to any of our fun ideas above. Which is your favorite way of personalizing the mailbox?
Let us know in the comments section below!
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Mailboxes Easy to Install?
Installing a mailbox is a simple process that you can accomplish by yourself. It’s typically a DIY project you can undertake over a weekend. All you have to do is dig into the ground, insert the post at an even level, pour concrete, and install the mailbox on the post. In a few simple steps, your mailbox is good to go.
Do Mailboxes Need Cement?
Pouring cement into the pit of the post isn’t a necessary step. However, it is highly advisable since it increases the stability of your mailbox and secures it in the ground better. You can use ready-mix cement for faster and easier results.
What Are the Different Types of Mailboxes?
Mail slots, wall-mounted, post-mounted, collection mailboxes, parcel lockers, package drop boxes, pedestal-mounted, and column-mount mailboxes are some of the different types of mailboxes. You can choose any one of these which suits the theme of your house and its outdoors.
How Deep Should I Dig for The Post of a Mailbox?
You should ideally dig around 20 inches deep for the post of your mailbox. It is advisable not to dig lesser than that or deeper than 24 inches. The appropriate depth ensures the stability of your mailbox such that it stays tightly wedged in the ground.
Do I Need to Follow Regulations?
The first step in installing a mailbox is to check the local rules and regulations issued by the USPS. For instance, your mailbox cannot be more than 45 inches higher off the ground. Complying with all such laws is crucial since otherwise, and you could face tardy warnings and notices.
