How To Replace a Mailbox

Over time, mailboxes can deteriorate due to weather exposure or damage. This guide will walk you through how to replace your mailbox, from selecting a durable option to a sturdy installation. Contractor Roger Cook shows us how it’s done and provides helpful insights, such as using rot-resistant materials and meeting U.S. Postal Service requirements.

Choosing the Right Mailbox

You’ve likely never thought about what goes into a quality mailbox. It’s a fixture most homeowners barely notice. Below are some pointers for choosing one that will last and complement your home.

Material Options

Mailboxes come in various materials, each with its own advantages and drawbacks:

• Plastic: This is an affordable and lightweight option for homeowners. However, it can be less durable, especially in harsh weather conditions.
• Metal: Choices such as steel or aluminum are sturdy and long-lasting. They withstand impact and weather well.
• Wood: A wood mailbox is a classic choice that brings an attractive, rustic look to your home. It requires more maintenance, such as sealing and staining, to prevent rot.
• Cellular PVC: Mimicking the appearance of wood, PVC is rot-resistant, durable, and low-maintenance. 

Size and Style

Your chosen size and style affect the mailbox’s look and utility. 

• Traditional curbside boxes: These are common and straightforward, serving most households well.
• Wall-mounted designs: These are ideal for homes without a front yard or when curbside placement is not practical.
• Decorative posts with built-in mailboxes: They add charm and curb appeal.

Weather Resistance

Be mindful of your local climate when selecting mailbox materials. Look for features such as rust-resistant metals or UV-protected plastics to ensure the mailbox withstands elements such as rain, snow, and intense sunlight.

USPS Approval

You may not realize it, but mailboxes must be approved by the postal service. Before purchasing a new mailbox, review the postal service’s mailbox regulations. 

Materials and Tools for Mailbox Repair

Here’s what you’ll need to replace your mailbox:

• Post hole digger or shovel for digging a hole to the required depth
• Post level for ensuring your post is vertically plumb
• Drill/driver for securing screws and making fastenings
• Sledgehammer for tampering down soil effectively
• Galvanized decking screws that resist rust 
• Tarp for containing excavated soil 
• New mailbox and post that meet USPS guidelines

Removing the Old Mailbox

Start by safely removing the existing mailbox. Here’s how to do it:

1. Unscrew the current mailbox from its post, taking care not to damage the structure if repurposing.
2. Dig around the base of the post to loosen it if the post has been in place for a while.
3. Carefully remove the post, watching for any concrete footings. 

Taking the time to properly remove the old mailbox ensures that the new installation will be straightforward and secure.

Installing the New Mailbox Post

Follow these steps for a seamless process:

1. Dig a hole for the new post using a shovel or post hole digger. Make sure it’s deep enough to securely hold the mailbox. The bottom of the mailbox must be 41–45 inches above the street level. This height requirement ensures easy access for mail carriers. Place the excavated soil on a tarp for easy cleanup and backfilling.
2. Position the post in the hole. Follow USPS guidelines to ensure the front of the mailbox is close enough to the street that mail carriers can reach it but not so close that passing vehicles will hit it.
3. Use a post level to ensure the post is perfectly plumb. A hands-free post level can check two directions simultaneously, making the job easier.
4. Backfill the hole with 10–12 inches of soil, tamping it down with a sledgehammer or a long 2-by-4 to secure the post. Repeat until the post is stable and firmly seated.
5. Continue adding soil and tamping until the hole is completely filled. With each layer, firm down well to avoid the post shifting over time.

Attaching the Mailbox

Once the post is securely anchored, you can attach the mailbox. Here’s how:

1. If your mailbox design includes a diagonal brace, attach it to the post. Use galvanized decking screws to ensure a firm hold against weather conditions.
2. Mount the mailbox to the post or shelf, ensuring it’s directly aligned with the post. Use galvanized screws for a secure fit.
3. Ensure the mailbox is level and properly aligned with the street. 

Ensure that your house number is clearly visible on the mailbox or post. This visibility is crucial for accurate delivery and helps postal workers identify mail stops.

Enhancing Mailbox Durability

The tips below help extend the longevity of your mailbox. 

Protective Coatings

Apply a weather-resistant sealant or paint to wooden or metal components. This guards against moisture intrusion and UV damage, prolonging material lifespan and appearance.

Landscaping Considerations

Thoughtful landscaping can further protect your mailbox and add to curb appeal.

• Plant low-growing shrubs around the base to create a barrier and guard against potential lawn mower damage.
• Install reflective markers to increase visibility for snowplows and other vehicles.
• Create a small gravel bed around the post, reducing moisture exposure by promoting drainage and less direct soil contact with post materials.

Regular Maintenance

• Routinely tighten loose screws or bolts to address natural material expansion and contraction.
• Touch up paint or sealant as needed, especially if chips or wear appear.
• Clear debris from around the base of the post. This regular tidying helps minimize pest nesting areas and maintain a clean look.