PROJECTS ONLINE: INSTALLING A MAILBOX: BOX, POST, AND POST SUPPORT
Project Difficulty:
Moderate Estimated
Project Time: 1/2 day
Tools and Materials:
Steel post support
Sledgehammer
4x4 scrap piece
4x4 treated lumber or cedar post
Level
Carpenter’s saw
Cordless drill/driver
Galvanized deck screws
Lag screws, as needed
Ratchet or wrench, as needed
Mailbox
If using concrete:
Shovel
Quick-setting concrete
1x3s and stakes
With this type of system, the post support is set into the ground, but the post is attached to the support at ground level (Fig. 1). This method can be much easier than digging a hole for the post, unless you need to set the support in concrete. In either case, however, installing a new post the next time won't involve any more digging, as long as the support remains intact. Just remove the old post, set the new one into the support, and attach it with screws.
Here's how to install a post support, post, and mailbox.
1.
Remove the Old Box and Post
Remove the old post and mailbox.
2.
Install Post Support
With a sledgehammer, drive the steel post support straight into the ground. Cushion the top of the support with a piece of 4x4 or other scrap wood while pounding away, so that you don’t distort it. You may need to relocate the support if you encounter too many rocks or other obstacles.
3.
Install Post
Once the support is underground, put the post in position and determine how much has to be cut off to get it to the proper height for the delivery person. Cut the post, put it back in the support, and either drill starter holes for the lag screws or use a drill/driver and galvanized deck screws to mount the post to the support. If you’re using lag screws, tighten them with a ratchet or wrench.
Note: Some supports require digging a hole and using quick-setting concrete. With these, be sure the post will be plumb when the concrete is dry by properly bracing the post with 1x3s and stakes while the concrete sets.
4.
Install Box
Attach the mailbox to the post with galvanized deck screws.
