Encyclopedia

of Home Improvements

*Mailboxes*

A daily ritual for many is that trip to the mailbox. Since it used and abused by the excessive amounts of mail we receive each day they need replacement every so often.

Before you dig a posthole for the mailbox be sure to check with your local utility company that there are no underground utilities that could be damaged.

Remember to keep federal regulations in mind when placing the mailbox. When you replace an existing mailbox or install one for the first time, make sure that it will be easily accessible for your mail carrier. Keep these things in mind:

The regulation height is 42" from the bottom of the mailbox to the ground.

Your house number should be clearly marked on the mailbox with painted numbers or stickers no less than 1" high.

The box should be on the right-hand side of the road as traveled by the mail carrier, or some other pre arranged location.

It should be located approximately 2' from the side of the road to ensure the carrier can get off the road enough to clear traffic.

Installing a Mailbox

Once you have determined where the mailbox should be located you can begin the installation.

Dig your posthole. The hole should be deep enough to allow for 6" of gravel (to promote drainage) and to set the post at the correct height. The bottom of the mailbox must be 42" off of the ground.

Pour about 6" of gravel into the hole.

Prepare your concrete mix according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Set the post and fill the hole with the prepared concrete mix. Tamp the mix while filling to eliminate air pockets.

Slope the concrete around the base of the post to allow for water runoff. If you want to conceal the concrete, pour it to within a few inches of the top of the hole and cover with soil after the concrete has set.

Attach the mailbox to the post. Attachment brackets designed to fit a standard 4 x 4 post are available, but check to see if they come with your mailbox before purchasing them separately. You may also want to check to see if you have a set from your old mailbox. As an alternative installation, you can cut a board to fit within the overhanging lips at the bottom of the mailbox. Secure the board to the post. Screw the mailbox to the board through the lips at the base of the box

Check the mailbox assembly for level. Adjust as needed.

Label the front and side of the box with your house numbers) using stick on numbers or paint. The numbers should be at least 1" high.

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