Choosing the right mailbox for your home requires more than grabbing the first one you see at the hardware store. The following are a few things to keep in mind as you shop for a new mailbox.
What Will It Hold?
Your first consideration is what types of mail you receive. If your mail primarily consists of a few letters and advertising inserts, then a small traditional box is likely sufficient. On the other hand, if you expect plenty of package deliveries, then you may want a box large enough to hold these as well. Further, there are mailboxes available that also have a newspaper slot, which means no more damp newspaper on the front porch.
Another thing to keep in mind is the type of housing the mailbox is for. If you rent a room, are in a duplex, or have a small rental in the attic or above the garage, for example, you may want a mailbox that features multiple delivery slots for the different households on your property.
Do You Need Security?
Something else to keep in mind is security. Package and mailbox theft is a real concern in many locations, including in rural areas. A locking mailbox that allows packages and letters to be placed inside but prevents their removal without a key can be a good investment.
Bored hooligans with baseball bats can also pose a risk to your mailbox. Fortunately, there are secure but attractive options available. Secure mailboxes may feature concrete posts, stronger box materials and connections, or swinging arms. These designs protect your mailbox from damage, whether it's from a swinging bat or a car backing up into it accidentally.
Where Will You Mount It?
Location matters. If you have the luxury of a porch mailbox, you will want to opt for a style that is attractive and complements the exterior of your home. First, look to the trim and choose a style and color that works with the trim of your home. Modern homes look best with a box with clean lines, while cottages and Tudor-style homes may benefit from a black iron box with quaint scrollwork.
An attractive design is also important for boxes mounted at the end of a walkway or driveway. Once again, choose a box that complements the home and its trim. You may also want to use the fence style to help choose the mailbox design. For example, if you have brick fences or retaining walls around your home, a bricked-in box will look nice.
Contact a mailbox supplier for more help choosing between things like decorative mailboxes and iron mailboxes.
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