How to Maintain Your Mailbox

The mailbox is often the first thing that people will notice about your home. Its condition will reflect much about how you take care of your residence. A good, sturdy mailbox not only adds to the appeal of your home, but it protects your mail as well.

Still, there will be a need for proper mailbox maintenance. Here are some handy tips to keep your mailbox system looking good:

Mailbox Maintenance Issues

First things first, you will need to check your mailbox periodically for any potential issues that might need to be addressed.

Check Out the Support. Every so often, check your mailbox to ensure that it is secure and well anchored. A little shake here and there will let you know if anything is loose and in need of a mailbox repair.

Clear Address. This is because your mailbox carries the identification of your address which first responders will use when coming by for an emergency situation. Make sure that it is complete and clearly seen.

Check the Door. Make sure that the door closes properly so that your mail is kept dry inside. Additionally, you’ll want to check for any sharp edges that stick out. File them down and make sure that your mailbox is safe for both you and the mail carrier.

Mailbox Repair & Replacement Issues

If your mailbox is in need of repair, then you’ll need to take the appropriate steps to make sure that it is working properly. However, given just how inexpensive mailboxes are today, you may actually want to replace it instead which can save you a little time and trouble. If you decide to replace your mailbox, then you’ll either need to remount it along the curb or against your home.

Curb Post Requirements. There are specific requirements for setting up your mailbox along the curb.
– Mailbox : 4” x 4”
– Pole: 41” to 45” in Height
– Pole: 2” in Diameter
– Pole: Buried no more than 24” into the ground for support

The mailbox and pole need to be strong enough to provide good support against the elements, but must give when struck by a vehicle.

House Mounting Requirements: If you decide to place your new mailbox against the house, you’ll need to place it were it is easily accessible. Most mailboxes are right next to the front door, but you can mount it on a porch support column as well. It will need to be around 4’ off the ground so that a walking mail carrier can easily place the mail.

Remember that you do not have to place your name on the mailbox, but you will need to put the street address on it. The street address is used by the mail carriers, public service workers, and first responders to correctly identify your address. You can buy brass mailbox numbers directly from the Addresses of Distinction website.