Posts Tagged ‘mailbox repair’

 

Fix Mailbox Post

Wednesday, March 12th, 2014

Fix Mailbox Post - Handyman

Weather, accidents, or simply time will take a toll on your mailbox post. Sooner or later you’ll have to fix or replace it. Fortunately, this is an easy job that you can do in a couple of hours. Here are the main things you need to know for your fix mailbox post project.

1. Check the Old Mailbox Post

Is your old mailbox post broken or only loose? Is it set in cement or into the ground? If it’s set in cement, you might want to change its location, because it’s difficult to remove the old cement. You can place the new mailbox post nearby or nail the new post into the old spot.

2. Find another Mailbox Post

When you plan to fix a mailbox post, you need to consider the length of the post. According to federal regulations, your mailbox post should be 41-45 inches long, so remember this when you choose a new one.

3. Prepare the Mailbox Post

To prevent rotting, it is advisable to treat the part of the post that will be inserted into the ground with a protective coating. Apply the preservative substance and let the mailbox post soak for a day before installing it.

4. Install the Mailbox Post

Dig a hole in the selected location, with a depth of about 2-3 feet. Put a layer of gravel on the bottom of the hole to allow water drainage. Place the mailbox post into the hole, and then back fill with the spoil that you dug out. Make sure your mailbox post is straight by using a level.

5. Put the Mailbox on Your New Post

The last thing to do to after installing the post is place the mailbox on it. You can use screws or nails to set it in place. Your mailbox is now ready to be used.

Need a Handyman?

Call Seva Call today and we’ll connect you with local professionals that can get your job done. It’s fast and free!

Fix Mailbox Door

Monday, November 18th, 2013

Fix Mailbox Door - Handyman

Can’t close the door of your mailbox? Defective mailbox doors are a common problem that upsets numerous homeowners. Some of them choose to repair or replace it on their own, while others go in favor of timely, professional services ensured by a trusted local handyman. If you think that the first alternative is right for you, check out the following guidelines to fix mailbox door in two simple steps without any help from a specialist.

Step 1: Diagnose Your Problem

Start by identifying the nature and extent of your problem. Your door may not close properly for various reasons including deterioration, rusty pop rivets, or external damage, such as severe weather.

Newer mailboxes made of cheap materials are usually inexpensive and unreliable. Homeowners try to fix them by reattaching the door using tape and even chewing gum. However, these solutions are temporary and deliver less than satisfactory results.

Step 2: Find the Perfect Long-term Solution to Your Problem

If you want to fix mailbox door and make sure it stays in place for the longest period of time, use nut mail magnets. Apply tiny magnets on your mailbox to keep the door closed at all times, even the worst weather conditions. If nut mail magnets are placed correctly, they do their job for several months in a row.

Here’s a great extra tip: make sure you rub the whole area with alcohol before sticking the commercial Velcro piece on the interior side of your mailbox. This is, by far, the simplest method to fix mailbox door.

You don’t need any special tools or skills, and the nut mail magnets work equally well on brick,  plastic, metal, and wood surfaces, so they are great for any type of mailbox. You can glue the magnet in a few minutes, by simply applying a powerful adhesive, like 3M Dual-LockTM, for instance.

Ask an Expert

If you simply can’t fix your mailbox door on your own, don’t hesitate to ask for expert help. Use TalkLocal to connect with up to three professional handymen in your area, in just minutes.

What to Do If You Find Your USPS Mailbox Broken

Thursday, November 14th, 2013

What to Do If You Find Your USPS Mailbox Broken - Handyman

United States Postal Service (USPS) mailboxes are designed and installed according to specific standards. If you find your USPS mailbox broken or damaged in any way, by accident or as a result of daily wear and tear, you should follow some guidelines when fixing it. If you need a new mailbox, you can find some of the top rated mailboxes from Amazon, starting at $26.22 and have it shipped overnight.

To deliver your mail, the USPS requires you to be familiar with its standards and make sure that the area surrounding the mailbox is accessible. Here’s what you should know if one day you find your USPS mailbox broken.

Notify the Local Postal Service

Before installing a new USPS mailbox it’s best to notify your local post office. The same goes for mailbox replacement or relocation.

Get Approval for Your Mailbox

If you find your USPS mailbox broken  and it really can’t be fixed, you should purchase a new one from a shop which sells mailboxes approved by the Postmaster. If you want a customized mailbox, you’ll need approval before installing it.

Get the Identification Right

USPS mailboxes must follow certain rules as far as identification is concerned. You should use at least one inch letters to write your name on the mailbox. Also, the name of the street and the street number should be inscribed both on the front of the mailbox and on the side to allow the mailman to see it when approaching.

The Height and Locks of the USPS Mailbox

USPS mailboxes should be 41-45 inches in height, starting from the ground. If your mailbox is locked, it should have a frontal slot which allows the postal worker to slide the mail in easily.

Purchasing a new USPS Mailboxes

If your USPS mailbox is not repairable or salvageable, it may be more affordable and efficient of your time to purchase a new mailbox. You can purchase a brand new USPS mailbox from Amazon, starting at $26.22 and have it shipped overnight. Once you have purchased a new USPS mailbox, TalkLocal can help you find a local handyman who help you to install it at an affordable cost.

Refrain from Sticking Ads on USPS Mailboxes

Advertising is not allowed on USPS mailboxes, so keep your mailbox clean and clear of ads to comply with USPS standards.

Ensure Access to Your USPS Mailbox

It is your duty as an owner to provide access to your USPS mailbox if you want your mail to be delivered. If the postal worker does not have access to your mailbox because it’s covered by snow, or it’s blocked by a vehicle or a garbage bin, you won’t get your mail delivered.

Can’t Fix Your Mailbox?

If you need help to fix your USPS mailbox or install a new one, TalkLocal can connect you with local handymen who can do the job in the shortest amount of time. Our service is fast and free.