Taking on a renovation project is always a fun and exciting time in a home owners’ life. Some prefer to charge right in and gut the whole house, while others pick smaller projects such as installing new cabinets or restoring an old mailbox. If you find yourself wanting to ease into a home DIY assignment, then a good place to start may be at the mailbox!
Virtually every home in the country has one, and chances are that many haven’t been touched, fixed or updated in decades! Let’s find out more about 1) the different types of mailboxes, 2) how to restore them, and 3) installing them once they have been restored.
Different Types of Mailboxes
Mailboxes come in all shapes and forms throughout the country. They are small and large, white and blue, normal and oddly shaped and can be placed just about anywhere in the front of your house. Even with all the variations, mailboxes can be grouped into three distinctive groups including mailbox sets, novelty mailboxes and wall mounted mail boxes.
Mailbox sets can consist of either the mailbox or the mounting post itself. Most of these will require assembly but will yield a unique and absolutely elegant box. It is quite typical for these letterboxes to be located along the road in front of your home.
Novelty outdoor mailboxes are another option and provide a hint of flair for home owners who want to make a splash. These boxes are customized based off of the standard rounded variety and resemble such things as horses, dogs, flamingos, fire trucks, hammers, sports team mascots, and even mermaids. If none of these options scream “you” then there is always the option to have one completely customized to your liking.
There are also a variety of options when looking at the wall mounted mail boxes as well. These postboxes come in numerous sizes, shapes and styles and are usually installed near the front entry door of the home. This option a lot of the times will require work on your part to install with required equipment consisting of mounting screws, a drill and anchors. There is also an option to have these boxes made out of plastic, metals, and steals while being mounted horizontally and vertically.
Restoration and Maintenance Tips
Now that we have identified our type of mailbox it is imperative that we turn our attention to the restoration or maintenance of the box itself. First off, it is important that if you haven’t washed your letterbox yet then go wash it right away! Typically, you want to do this about every 6 months and if yours hasn’t ever had a wash this alone can make it look brand new. The best technique for washing is to use a soft bristle brush with a little big of dish soap and warm water. This will get rid of any scuff marks, dirt or dust that has built up over the seasons.
Next it is best to apply a clear coat of wax that will allow your mailbox to absolutely shine! It is important to note that if your mailbox is older than a couple years and in need of restoration then you will want to go with a cleaner-wax instead of a regular one.
The last step to look for in restoring and maintaining your box is to see if any scratches have developed. If your mailbox is made of metal and the powder coat becomes compromised, then you need to react quick before the rust begins to set in. One of the best ways in preventing the rusting is to apply a “Rustoleum” paint that resembles the original color as it will protect the metal from any further harm.
Installing Your Newly Renovated Mailbox
Once all of the hard work of fixing and restoring your mailbox is done it is time to show off your work. Many people opt for the roadside mailbox but are unaware of the guidelines they need to follow to keep within federal regulations. For example, you will want to position the mailbox 41 to 45 inches from the surface of the road to the bottom of the mailbox. Another regulation to keep in mind is that you will need to keep your box at least 6 to 8 inches back from the curb. Lastly, make sure to include your house number on the box.
For more great ideas for enhancing your curb appeal, take a look at some mailbox DIYs here. Its always fun to get benefits from minimal efforts, and restoring and renovating your mailbox can do just that!
