A Simple Guide to Choosing the Right Letterbox for Your Home

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When it comes to home upgrades, letterboxes are probably taking the back seat. People give a lot of thought when arranging the interior, while some exterior points become easily neglected. However, the letterbox can help a lot in creating a good first impression since it’s one of the first visual staples quests and passers-by recognise.

That being said, by investing in a good-quality mailbox, you can make an impressions that last. The following features can help you choose one that is both stylish and practical.

Material

timber-wooden-letterboxLetterboxes come in a wide range of materials to suit everyone’s preferences. What kind of material you will choose mostly depends on the climate in the area where you live as well as your style and preferences.

A timber letterbox is an ideal choice because it looks good, lasts long and can serve its purpose well. Wooden letterboxes can complement the look of almost any exterior design since they are very neutral looking. You can choose from an abundance of wooden options, but nothing beats the quality of Accoya wood.

A timber letterbox made of Accoya wood is ideal for the Australian climate. It’s resistant to all weather conditions, meaning it won’t corrode or get damaged easily. It’s also pretty easy to clean, just a simple wipe from time to time will do the job.

Manufacturers advise applying a simple layer of rich oil or stain to help it preserve its colour under different weather conditions. Coating the wooden mailbox can enhance its natural beauty and extend its longevity. If you opt for a letterbox that features an aluminium body and Accoya wood front panel and stainless steel hinges, you’re choosing a sturdy letterbox that can last for years.

Steel mailboxes are also popular choices since they are sturdy and durable. However, steel is susceptible to being scratched, dinged, or bent. Also, they’re good chances that it will start to look damaged after a couple of years. If the letterbox is made of lower-quality steel, it may also start to rust when exposed to the moisture and salt in the air.

Plastic letterboxes have proven to be sturdy and durable options, but most homeowners avoid plastic for a mailbox since it looks very cheap. Also, when they are exposed to the sun rays, their colour begins to fade.

Another popular option is the aluminium letterbox. Regular aluminium is very lightweight and generally durable. However, it’s best for short-term use and is suitable for milder climates. Have in mind that aluminium letterbox can also cost you more than other materials.

Lockability

secure-letterboxOne of the most important features you should look for when choosing the right letterbox for your home is for it to be lockable. Having a letterbox just because it matches your exterior, is not enough, it also needs to keep your mail secure. Make sure that you choose a model that you can easily find replacement keys for, in case you lose the original ones.

Form & Function

You can find letterboxes in a wide range of styles, shapes and sizes: from simple square boxes to freestanding mailboxes in different designs. The right choice can provide you with convenience while adding to the appeal of your home and property. Also, it will save you from missing mail simply because there was no one home to receive them. Have in mind to choose a letterbox that is big enough to allow an A4 envelope to lie flat while still having enough room for other mails

Tip: Make sure that your letterbox is placed at the right height. It should be placed at least 900mm – 1200mm above ground level, in a position that makes it easy for the postman to access it.

Mounting Type

mounting-typeOne of the most important things you need to decide is where to mount your letterbox. They can be post mounted, wall-mounted, fence mounted or bricked-in, depending on what best suits your needs. Post mounted letterboxes can be a stylish addition to any yard. If you have a fence, you can consider a fence mounted letterbox. Wall-mounted letterboxes are commonly preferable options for people who live in flats.

Letterboxes have evolved so much that you can easily find a model that features a wall planter. The planter adds more function and versatility to your letterbox.

Aesthetics

Modern letterboxes come with simple, yet stylish designs that can be easily incorporated into any exterior. Timber letterboxes allow you to engrave your street numbers at 2.0mm deep into the timber panel and even filled in a solid colour using visually appealing fonts. If you choose a model that features a planter, you can make your letterbox even more attractive with your favourite plants growing on the top of it.