Out with the old: Know when and how to replace a letterbox

Did you know that in Australia, a letterbox holds a deeper purpose beyond just mail delivery? It reflects a house’s personality and highlights the traditional way of communication within the community. If your home is due for a letterbox replacement, whether for an outdated design, security upgrades, or renovation purposes, this DIY project guide is for you.

Below, you’ll find how to replace a letterbox, the different types available, and the tools needed to ace your project.

Signs you need to replace your letterbox

It’s normal for your letterbox to sustain wear and tear over time, so knowing when it’s time to swap yours is key to protecting your deliveries and maintaining your house aesthetic. Below are common signs that you should watch out for:

• Visible damage like rust, cracks, and a broken flap

• Poor security if the existing letterbox has loosened, or it’s now easy to tamper with

• Doesn’t fit modern mail or parcels

• Aesthetic reasons, like if you’re looking to upgrade your exterior, the colour or design of the letterbox no longer aligns with the rest

If your letterbox shows any of these signs, consider replacing it with a fresh one that better suits your needs and style.

Types of letterboxes to consider

A secure fence-mounted letterbox (Source: iStock)

Once you’re set on replacing your letterbox, the next thing is to narrow down your choices. Different types cater to home setups and needs. Here’s a quick overview of the common ones:

• Freestanding or post-mounted letterbox: The most common kind found in Australian homes. Freestanding letterboxes are usually located at the front of the house, near the street, or driveway.

• Door-mounted letterboxes: The slots of a door letterbox go through a front door or a small flap.

• Wall-mounted letterbox: Usually attached to the house’s exterior wall for those without a yard.

• Fence-mounted letterbox: This is fixed or built into the boundary fences or gates facing the streets.

• Parcel letterbox: This has a larger capacity to fit bigger deliveries, like packages, and not just letters.

As there are many options available to you, feel free to select one that best complements your space and accommodates the volume of mail you receive.

Tools and materials you’ll need

When replacing a letterbox, make sure to prepare your tools and materials before starting. Here’s a checklist of the essentials you’ll need:

Tools:

• Screwdriver or drill to fasten the screws

• Measuring tape to get accurate dimensions for your letterbox position

• Pencil to mark the areas for your drill holes

• Chisel (for door-mounted types) to shape and smooth the edges of the cutout opening

• Sandpaper to smooth any rough edges for a safe and clean finish

• Spirit level to make sure the installed letterbox is even and straight

• Safety glasses and work gloves for protection during cutting and drilling

Materials:

• New letterbox to replace your old one

• Screws (usually included) to hold the letterbox in place

• Weather stripping or sealant (if needed) to create a tighter fit while preventing moisture around the edges of your letterbox slot

Steps to replace your letterbox

Residential letterbox on a front fence wall (Source: iStock)

Once you’ve got all your essentials, it’s time to go over the steps on how to change a letter box. From removal to measuring and installation, follow these steps carefully to ensure a successful project.

Step 1: Remove the old letterbox

Start to remove the old letterbox by unscrewing its sides slowly. If the screws are too rusted, try applying a lubricant to make removal easier and avoid scratching the edges.

For door-mounted or wall-mounted letterboxes, have someone support the letterbox from the other side as you remove the last screws to ensure it doesn’t bend or fall. For freestanding letterboxes, gently lift the unit off its post or mounting base.

Don’t feel rushed to remove the old letterbox at once. Take your time, especially if it has been around for years. A slow, careful removal helps ensure any debris has been cleared out and the new surface is clean and ready.

Step 2: Measure your mail and space requirements

Next is how to fit a letterbox. Measure the height, width, and depth of your usual mail to get an idea of the internal dimensions that your replacement letterbox requires. It’s best to add an allowance for parcels or larger envelopes. This allowance helps accommodate various mail sizes without bending or damaging.

Letterbox fitting can be done by a professional handyman specialising in letterbox fittings to make sure they meet the standard size and guidelines set by Australia Post. The minimum internal size for a letterbox in Australia should be 330mm long, 230mm wide, and 160mm high.

For door-mounted or wall-mounted installations, measure the available space on your door or wall to ensure your chosen letterbox will fit properly.

Step 3: Mark the installation position

Using your measuring tape and pencil, mark where your new letterbox will be installed. Use a spirit level to ensure your markings are straight and even.

For freestanding letterboxes, ensure the mounting height will be between 900mm and 1200mm from the ground. For door or wall installations, mark the centre point and outline where the letterbox will sit.

Step 4: Prepare the opening (for wall-mounted and fence-mounted types only)

Note: Skip this step if you’re installing a freestanding or door-mounted letterbox.

For wall-mount letterboxes or those installed in fences, you’ll need to prepare the opening. The opening must be slightly larger than the letterbox dimensions to allow for easy installation and adjustment.

Start by marking the exact position where the letterbox will fit; this should align with your measurements from Step 2. Use a drill to make the initial two holes in the corners of the marked area, then use cutting tools like an angle grinder or saw to cut out the opening. Be sure to wear safety gear and smooth any rough edges to avoid damage and injury.

Step 5: Install the new letterbox

Position your new letterbox according to the marks you made. For freestanding letterboxes, secure the unit to its post or mounting base. For door, wall, or fence-mounted types, align the letterbox with the prepared opening or marked position.

Insert and tighten the screws gradually, alternating between sides to ensure even pressure. The screws should be firm enough to hold the letterbox securely in place, but avoid overtightening, which can damage the letterbox or mounting surface and lead to cracks.

Once installed, use your spirit level to check that the letterbox is straight. Make any necessary adjustments before fully tightening all screws.

Step 6: Seal and weatherproof

The last step is to seal and waterproof your new letterbox. This protects it against harsh rain and wind. Apply a weather-resistant sealant around the edges and any screw holes to prevent water from seeping inside.

Meanwhile, if your letterbox is made of metal or wood, there is more painting work to consider, such as adding a rust-resistant paint or protective coating for extra durability. You can also install a small cover or awning above the letterbox to provide extra shelter from direct rain and sun.

Tips for a successful letterbox installation

Mail being delivered to a standard letterbox (Source: iStock)

Installing a letterbox can take some time, so it’s important for you or the handyman not to rush and risk mistakes. Follow these tips for a smooth and successful installation at home:

• Don’t overtighten the screws. This can damage your letterbox or mounting surface and lead to cracks. Especially if yours is a letterbox for wooden door, make sure the screws are tight enough to hold the letterbox securely in place without adding too much pressure.

• Check that the flap or lid opens and closes smoothly after installing. Once the job is done, immediately check if the letterbox flap replacement or lid is functional. This can prevent damage to your mail and avoid delivery issues later on.

• Add security features. Some features include selecting a lockable letterbox with a secure flap with replacement keys, choosing a location that’s visible but not easily reachable, and using strong fasteners to prevent it from being easily removed.

Enjoy a stress-free letterbox replacement with Airtasker

If you find yourself working with difficult materials or your new letterbox requires structural modifications, hiring an experienced handyman nearby with Airtasker is the way to go. Simply post a task detailing the job specifics and your budget, and soon you’ll receive offers from trusted Taskers who handle letterbox installation like a piece of cake.

By leaving the job to the professionals, you can relax knowing that the installation process is done with expertise and care.