Choosing the right mailbox for your house can be a daunting and stressful if you don’t know what type of residential mailbox you need or want.
The sections below will describe the many types and styles of mailboxes that will help you select the perfect mailbox for your yard or home. After all, a well-chosen mailbox for your house can add value to your home by creating curb appeal. Today’s modern residential mailboxes are not just for collecting mail. Many mailboxes are an extension of your home and personality!
There are basically two types of mailboxes: post-mount and wall-mount. Post-mounted boxes are sometimes also called roadside or curbside mailboxes. Wall-mounted mailboxes are the ones attached to an outside wall.
Picking a post-mounted mailbox for your house
There are two parts to post-mounted mailboxes: the actual mailbox and then the stand or post.
Post mount mailbox
Post-mounted mailboxes are the most popular type of mailboxes for your house. Post mounted mailboxes are available as sets with mailbox and post or individually. Box designs range from very basic to sophisticated depending on the owner’s preference.
Mailbox sets include the mailbox and mounting post. Many of these require some type of assembly. There are many unique and elegantly designed box and post sets are available on the market today.
The majority of the boxes are mounted on a typical 4×4 inch post positioned by the curb in front of your home. However, be careful and read the installation instructions because some specialty or novelty mailboxes may require additional hardware for installation.
Mailbox post
Standard post mounted mailboxes are either solid black or white mounted on a single 4×4 inch post. Most boxes are available in standard size (T1), large (T2), and extra-large (T3). However, while these are functional, they are not aesthetically pleasing. These mailboxes can easily be dressed up by adding a garden or mailbox cover.
When selecting a mailbox post or stand, choose one based on color, material, and style to match your box. Just remember, many posts require digging a hole and adding concrete. The easiest to install are “drive-in” posts which do not require digging or concrete. Also, make sure the post you selected includes the mounting hardware for the box, or else you’ll be making another trip back to the hardware store!
Wall mount mailboxes may be the perfect mailbox for your house
Wall-mounted mailboxes are available in numerous shapes, sizes, and styles. A wall-mounted box is generally installed by the front entry door of your home.
Manufacturers use highly durable plastics, galvanized metals, or steel to make wall-mounted mailboxes. A lot of these mailboxes are beautifully decorated with distinctive styles.
Installing these boxes may require the use of mounting screws, a drill, and anchors. You can mount these either horizontally or vertically. Wall-mounted boxes are available in styles ranging from Victorian to modern.
Novelty mailboxes
Novelty mailboxes are the type that adds drama and excitement to your yard!
There are literally thousands of different styles of novelty boxes. If you can’t find the “perfect” mailbox for your yard, then many companies will create a custom box to meet your specific needs.
Mailbox accessories
Many designs and manufacturers offer mailbox accessories for the mailbox for your house. Such features include newspaper holders, metal signs or plates displaying the home address and residence name, and outgoing mail flags.
For extra security, most mailboxes are available with a locking mechanism. A lock will help prevent mail theft. Locks are especially important when the homeowner is away for several days and unable to retrieve the mail.
There are many ways to spruce up an ordinary mailbox. For example, a fun way to decorate a plain style mailbox is with a mailbox cover. Because these mailbox covers are magnetic, you can easily change mailbox covers to match the season.
Another unique way to add character to your box is with a mailbox toppers or plaques. These toppers mount easily on the top of the mailbox with screws and are available in a variety of styles from golfing to fishing.
You can purchase many of these mailboxes online from reputable merchants. But, be wary of purchasing an inexpensive mailbox. Many metal boxes rust and will require replacing in only a few years. Hence, spending a little extra money and purchasing a long-lasting quality box will save you a huge headache in the long run.
Your personal style speaks volumes about who you are so it’s just natural that your style should reflect in the mailbox you choose. Choosing a mailbox is an important part of owning a home. Therefore, select one that reflects your personality and one that makes a unique statement about your personal style.