Three Easy Ways to Improve Your Residential Mailbox

Most outdoor home items experience only occasional use, but the residential mailbox stands out as something every homeowner relies on daily.

Yet many homeowners fail to exploit the complete capacity of residential mailboxes to their advantage.  In this article, we’ll explore three quick and easy ways to improve your residential mailbox:

1. Mailbox Locks
2. Mailbox Address Numbers and Address Plaques
3. Mailbox Care and Maintenance

Locking Residential Mailboxes

As a homeowner, the first way you can improve your residential mailbox is to secure it with a mailbox lock.

Someone is unlikely to steal your entire mailbox, but an unlocked mailbox can still put your mail and potentially your identity at risk. Identity and mail theft have risen rapidly over the past 15 years. In response, the United States Postal Service issued a bulletin on May 15, 2011, recommending that homeowners use secure, locking mailboxes.

To improve mailbox security, consider replacing your current mailbox with a locking model. Alternatively, you can add a lock to your existing post- or wall-mounted mailbox.

Mailbox Address Numbers and Plaques

Adding a mailbox address plaque to your post or wall-mounted mailbox helps ensure accurate delivery. It also makes it easier for guests and home maintenance personnel to find your residence.

Most residential mailboxes offer multiple spots for address placement. You can add the address on the door, sides, top (using a mailbox topper), or even on the post. Personalized mailboxes are popular, but we recommend limiting information to your name and address. The United States Postal Service prohibits advertising on residential mailboxes or posts. Including your name is optional, giving you the choice to prioritize privacy, as USPS doesn’t require it.

If your mailbox is on a street other than your residence, USPS guidelines require displaying both the street name and house number. Additionally, address information such as your name, street name, and house number should appear in a contrasting color. USPS also specifies that letters and numbers should be neat and at least one inch high.

When adding an address plaque or numbers, place them along the side or top (with a mailbox topper) instead of on the door, as the numbers won’t be visible when the door opens.

For best visibility, consider displaying address plaques or numbers on both sides of the mailbox. This way, they’re visible from either direction. If you choose only one side, place the address on the side facing traffic closest to your mailbox.

Care and Maintenance of Residential Mailboxes

In order to promote homeowner mailbox maintenance, the USPS designates the third full week of May as Mailbox Improvement Week. This was created to encourage all US residents to examine and, where necessary, improve the appearance of their exterior residential mailbox.

A well-maintained, attractive mailbox adds charm to both countryside and suburban neighborhoods. Regular care not only prevents mail delivery issues but also creates a welcoming first impression for neighbors and guests. Since your mailbox is often the first thing people notice, keeping it in good shape reflects well on your home.

The USPS suggests three primary maintenance tasks that should be regularly performed during Mailbox Improvement Week.  They are:

1. Clean Regularly: Most manufacturers recommend using a mild cleaning solution and a damp cloth to clean both the inside and outside of your mailbox.
2. Ensure It’s Upright: Snowplows and normal wear can cause mailboxes to tilt, making it harder for carriers to access. Check periodically to keep it standing straight.
3. Lubricate Moving Parts: Keep the door and any locking mechanisms in good working order by lubricating them as needed. If any parts are worn out, you can order replacements from a top mailbox retailer like The MailboxWorks.

Upgrade Your Residential Mailbox for Style, Security, and Functionality

A well-maintained, secure, and personalized mailbox does more than just hold your mail, it enhances your home’s appearance, provides security, and adds functionality. By securing your mailbox with a lock, adding clear address numbers or plaques, and performing regular maintenance, you’ll enjoy both peace of mind and an attractive addition to your property.

Ready to Upgrade? Explore our collection of high-quality residential mailboxes to find the perfect fit for your home. From secure, locking models to customizable options that boost curb appeal, we have a mailbox to meet your style and needs.

Browse our selection today or reach out to us at 1-866-717-4943 for personalized assistance in finding the ideal mailbox to enhance your home’s entrance.

Categorized in: Mailbox Installation & Upgrades, Residential Mailboxes