How to Install a Mail Box & Post

Easy

Introduction

Installing a mailbox on a post is really a simple process. You will need to check with your local postal service to find the specific height requirements, then you will be on your way to starting the job! With today's choices in mailboxes it is plain to see that we have come a long way from the old box on a stick they use to put the mail in! There are many designs and styles of mailboxes to conform to almost every one's taste. We are confident that if you look over the materials we have presented below, you and The DIY Home Pro will accomplish a professional looking job! We have rounded a few resources that will send you on your way to completing your new project. Please look over the information below carefully, and then use what is most applicable to your specific project. Remember: we have searched everywhere to bring you the very best information available so that your project will be a complete success! Always check with The DIY Home Pro first for all of your projects!.

Quick Links

Introduction
What You’ll Need

The Technique
Books and DVDs

Hire A Contractor
Ask Our Experts

Tools Needed
Materials Needed

What You’ll Need

Installing a mail box and post will require a few specific tools. We have provided a short list of tools and materials to help you complete the job in a simple yet professional manner. Once completed you will be able to enjoy your new mail box for years to come!

The Tools You’ll Need

Post Hole Digger

A post hole digger will be used to dig the hole for the light post. This device will keep the hole size to a minimum allowing you to use less cement to fill in the hole after the post is installed. Ames True Temper Classic Post Hole Digger With 44-Inch Wood Handle #1702600

Level

A level will be used to make sure the post is straight once you have placed it in the hole. there are many types of levels available, we have provided an example of the most common Black & Decker BDSL10 36-Inch Gecko Grip Level with Accu Mark

Hammer

Hammers are a basic tool for construction and will be required to complete the installation of your new air conditioner. There are different types and sizes of hammers, we have provided a link for a general use application. Stanley Flat Max 51-944 20-Ounce AntiVibe Rip Claw Nailing Hammer

Shovel

A shovel will be needed to mix cement and put the fill material back into the hole. A good shovel is always handy to have around the home.Ames True Temper Eagle Round Point Shovel With 46-Inch Fiberglass Handle #1348500

Tape measure

A tape measure is another basic tool that will be needed in completing this and many other projects around the house. This is a well constructed yet inexpensive model. Stanley 33-725 25-Foot FatMax Tape Measure

The Materials You’ll Need

Cement

Cement is sold in ready mix bags at your local home improvement store. You should only need one bag for the standard installation (depending on the size of the hole you dug). Bags come in 60 and 90 pounds and prices vary according to the place where you purchase the bag.

4"x4"x8' Post

If you are going to make your own post you will need a 4"x4"x8' pressure treated post, these are readily available at your local lumber yard or home improvement store. Cost ranges from $4.00 t0 $12.00 depending on the type of pressure treated board and the facility you purchase it from.

Mail Box

There are several types of post mounted mailboxes to choose from. We have provided a couple of the standard examples for you to review.

The Technique

There are many technique's to create mail boxes to fit your style. You can make a mailbox structure out of many different materials such as; bricks' rocks' wood and various other substances. Our specific article (as described in the title) is a basic mailbox on a post. These posts can then be added to or designed in many ways after installation, leaving you with a design all of your own! First,here is a little info to keep in mind: Postal regulations require the bottom of the mail box door be located between 40 to 44 inches from the ground. When digging your hole it is recommended to dig a hole 12 inches diameter with the depth of around 20”. We suggest you cover the bottom of the hole with about 2 inches of gravel. Using a level make sure the post is straight on all four sides and secure it with braces above the ground. Next either back fill the hole with dirt or cement keeping the post level. Now Lets Get Started!

Installing a Mail Box

Here is a great video. This video will take you through every step in the process of preparing and installing that new mailbox. All you have to do is review the video closely and maybe take a few notes and you will be ready to start!. Good Luck!

From Start to Finish!

This article has some nice diagrams and it covers everything from digging the hole, to setting the post and finally mounting the box. This article will get you through the task. View the Article >>>

Books and DVDs

Landscaping

This book on landscaping teaches you how to "Set Posts" which is the basic process for mounting a mail box post. This book covers many outside projects and will be handy for all of your outdoors work.

Hire A Professional Contractor

Not convinced you want to go it alone? Renovation Experts is a great place to find local professional contractors who specialize in any home improvement and home repair project you may have.