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How to Select a Mailbox
Some people may be wondering just what exactly do you need to know about picking out a receptacle for your mail? There can't be that many factors to consider, right? Well, not exactly. Surprisingly, there are several things to ponder, including the following:
Style
The style of your home will influence your mailbox choice. Mailboxes generally fall into two broad categories as defined by the...
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Some people may be wondering just what exactly do you need to know about picking out a receptacle for your mail? There can't be that many factors to consider, right? Well, not exactly. Surprisingly, there are several things to ponder, including the following:
Style
The style of your home will influence your mailbox choice. Mailboxes generally fall into two broad categories as defined by the actual shape of the mailbox. They are the traditional and contemporary style. Some mailboxes are a blend of both styles. To start searching for your mailbox, determine what style of home you have. For example, is your home a traditional Victorian or a Southwest Contemporary?
Material
Mailboxes are fashioned from a variety of materials. Galvanized steel, alumnium, plastic, brass and cedar are the top material types used. There are several gauges of steel ranging from standard to heavy duty. Heavy duty steel is rust resistant and can make your mailbox virtually indestructible. Alumnium will also not rust and is low maintenance. These types of mailboxes are particularly popular in coastal areas. Plastic mailboxes also range from a standard thickness to a double-walled plastic that is extremely durable. Plastic mailboxes are also rust proof. Brass offers a touch of elegance and, if cared for correctly, can last for years. Cedar provides a more rustic look, but requires regular maintenance. If sealants are not applied on a regular basis, cedar will have a rather weathered look over time.
Size
Mailboxes come in a wide selection of sizes. Obviously, the size or capacity you choose for your mailbox will depend upon how much mail you receive daily. Post-mounted mailboxes are found in standard, large and extra-large sizes. Wall mounted mailboxes will range in size from small to extra large.
Color and Finish
Mailboxes can come painted using a flat, semi-gloss or high gloss textured paint. Several novelty and decorative mailbox manufacturers offer vivid mailboxes that almost look like painted canvasses of art. Whether you are after a one-color, simple styled mailbox or a distinctive decorative piece, choose a color and finish to complement your home.
Other Features to Consider
With identify theft becoming more prevalent, many consumers feel more comfortable investing in a mailbox that has a locking feature. There are several mailboxes that come with everything from a simple key lock to a fully-digitized keypad lock.
If you live on a busy street and do not like the idea of stepping into that street to retrieve your mail, there are mailboxes that feature rear as well as front access. That way, you can retrieve your mail whatever way is convenient.
If you are a big newspaper reader and receive it through the mail or via a newspaper delivery person who actually puts it in your mailbox, consider a mailbox that has an additional storage slot for newspapers. Not only is it convenient, but may spare your paper from becoming your dog's chew toy or soaking wet from a rain storm.
Rules & Regulations
Finally, regardless of which mailbox you settle on, be sure that it meets the guidelines set by the United States Postal Services (USPS). First, know that you are required to contact your local post office before installing a curb-side mailbox to ensure correct placement and height. Generally, mail boxes are installed at a height of 41 to 45 inches from the road surface to the inside floor of the mail box or point of mail entry (locked designs) and are set back 6 to 8 inches from the front face of the curb or road edge to the mailbox door. A mail carrier can actually refuse to deliver mail if you select a "non-approved" mailbox. Always be sure to check that the mailbox you choose is USPS-approved. It should state this clearly somewhere on the mailbox packaging.
If you are part of a neighborhood homeowners association, live in a subdivision with specific standards and rules, or face community deed restrictions, be sure to check with those sources as well. Many have their own restrictions on types of mailboxes that can be used. Rural homeowners may also be subject to local governmental restrictions, state laws and federal highway regulations. The American Association of State Highway & Transportation Officials and the Federal Highway Administration Office of Highway Safety may be able to provide more information on the subject.
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