Is it time to replace your mailbox post? If it has given you about a decade of service before needing repair or replacement, you’re quite lucky. Mailbox posts are typically made of pressure treated wood, metal, or plastic pipe. In any case, the mailbox post is normally installed in the ground and cemented in place with the mailbox fastened to the post.
Regardless of what type of mailbox post you use, it will need replacement or repair sooner or later. If the post doesn’t get knocked down by a snow plow or get damaged by vandals, extreme weather will take its toll on the post eventually.
You might also find yourself with a broken or loose mailbox post one day should a car accidentally side swipe your mailbox, which is a fairly common occurrence.
When you have a wobbly mailbox post, whether due to an accident or a weakened material, it is best to go for a replacement.
Remove the Old Post
Perhaps the most difficult part of replacing a loose mailbox post is removing the old one. If the old post is not yet loose enough, wiggle it a little to allow the ball of cement underneath to come loose from the earth. You may need to dig around the post to remove some of the earth. Pry the post from the ground using a mason’s bar or pry bar.
Install the New Post
1. Once you’ve removed the damaged mailbox post, it’s time to install the new one. It’s important to make sure that, when the mailbox post has been installed, it will position the bottom of the mailbox about 45 inches above the road level.
2. Also, there should be around a 6 to 8-inch distance from the mailbox door to the curb or edge of the road. Get the US Postal specifications concerning mailbox location and measurements from the local post office.
3. Put the new post in the hole. Hold the post in a straight, vertical position using small braces.
4. Pour premixed cement into the hole and around the post, tamping it down, and then just add water.
5. Allow the cement to dry for about 4 to 6 hours. Then, attach the mailbox to your new post.
Are you not up to the task?
Let a reputable handyman do the job for you. If you don’t want to spend hours looking for a service professional, TalkLocal can help. Simply provide us the details of the service you need, and we will connect you qualified professionals in your area. What’s more, our service is completely free. Try us now.
Tags: Loose Mailbox Post
