How To Install A Mailbox Post

By Robert Robillard on Home Repairs And Remodeling

How To Install A Mailbox Post

Replacing A Mailbox Post

Recently a client asked me to replace their mailbox post.   This article will detail how to install a mailbox post.

Here’s a few tips to do this yourself:

1. Use shovel or post hole digger to dig a hole for the mailbox post.

Below: a post hole digger makes a perfect sized hole.

How To Install A Mailbox Post

2. The US Post Office wants to see the bottom of mailbox 41 to 45 inches above street, and the front of mailbox must be no more than 8 inches from curb.

The USPS typically requires the post to be approved by the local post office and that it be accessible from the vehicle for curbside delivery such that the carrier does not have to leave his vehicle.

There are several types of post material you can choose from. Three readily available materials are cedar, pressure treated wood and cellular pvc.

The post below is pressure treated and to provide extra protection I wrapped the wood below ground level with Vycor rubberized flashing.

How To Install A Mailbox Post

3. Set mailbox post in hole and use a level to hold it perfectly plumb.

How To Install A Mailbox Post

4. Back fill around the post with 10 or 12 inches of soil. Keep checking for plumb.

5. Use a tamper, sledgehammer or 2×4 to tamp down and compress the soil around the post. this keeps the post from moving.

6. Attach the mailbox to the post with galvanized decking screws.

How To Install A Mailbox Post

The mail box below mounts to a pine block of wood.

Unless you have a right angle drill, it’s easier to screw this wood block to your post first then attach the mailbox.

How To Install A Mailbox Post

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About the author

Robert Robillard

Carpenter / Remodeler / Editor

Rob Robillard is “The Concord Carpenter” Rob is a builder, general contractor, carpenter, woodworker, and editor of Concord Carpenter and ToolBoxBuzz As a General Contractor and carpenter, Rob owns and operates Concord Carpenter LLC. A full-service remodeling and construction company. Rob is a recognized leader in home building best practices and a source for how-to information for building professionals. On this website, Rob covers all aspects of home construction, building science, home improvement, woodworking, remodeling, and some of the best product and tool reviews. Rob is in charge of our Tool and Product Review series - Concord Carpenter Videos where we post all of our tool reviews and video tutorials. Rob approaches remodeling and building construction with a pragmatic and problem-solving approach. He enjoys using his knowledge and experience to help and educate building professionals as well as DIYers on best practices in the construction and remodeling industry. He's a strong advocate for "raising the bar" in the construction trades and promoting the trades to youth. #BeAMentor #Green2Great Craftsmanship, quality, and pride guide his journey on this channel The Concord Carpenter's motto: "Well done is better than well said!" : Read more about Rob

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