Tips for Mailbox Installation & Repairs in Newtown & Yardley, PA

Mailbox installation is a great way to mark your private property, boost your home's curb appeal, and add a touch of personality to your place. Perhaps you have a mailbox that's looking a little worse for wear, perhaps a snowplow has knocked it down, or maybe you want to replace your current model but aren't sure how the installation process works. Whatever the case may be, our pro team at Mr. Handyman of Newtown and Yardley can help—with both Newtown mailbox installation and mailbox repairs.

Our team of highly experienced and qualified service technicians have helped homeowners throughout Newtown with many home repair, maintenance, and installation projects. Whether big or small, we have the industry know-how, skill, expertise, and tools to get your unique project done right the first time—including Newtown mailbox repairs and installation.

Our Newtown handyman pros at Mr. Handyman of Newtown and Yardley put together this guide so that you can have the perfect mailbox that's a great addition to your home's facade. We’ve got answers to all your questions about common issues with Newtown mailbox repairs, information about our mailbox repair services, and DIY installation tips.

Common Newtown Mailbox Repairs

Like anything else in your home, it's common for your mailbox to need a little TLC once in a while. Since most receptacles are outside, they're exposed to all manner of factors that result in wear and damage. When damaged, it's important that you start Newtown mailbox installation or repairs right away—before any issues get worse. Our pros at Mr. Handyman of Newtown and Yardley can help with a range of Newtown mailbox repairs—whether you have a standing or wall-mounted box. We've outlined common problems homeowners should expect to deal with occasionally below.

What Leads to Mailbox Repairs?

Before learning more about common Newtown mailbox repairs, here's a list of factors that can cause wear and tear on your structure:

• Wind
• Rain
• Snow
• Snowplows
• Hail
• Sunshine
• Pets and birds
• Constant use
• Accidents

1. Loose or Detached

After years of use, it's very common for a mailbox to become detached or loose from the base it sits on. Whether on a post or attached to your home's siding, most receptacles are held in place by stainless steel screws after installation. As boxes are constantly being opened and closed, these screws can become loose. Luckily, this is a fairly easy fix; one simply has to tighten the screws with a screwdriver. It's important that you repair your box as soon as possible, otherwise it could blow off during a storm.

2. Leaning Post

There are a number of reasons why your post might be leaning. If the structure is more than 20 years old, it may be that the beam is rotting and has weakened. This happens given the fact that it is set into concrete, and moisture from rain and melting snow can settle on top of the concrete base and pool around the wood. In that case, it may be time to start a new installation project. Sometimes mailbox posts are not properly secured with concrete at all, which will also lead to leaning.

If your post is metal, and you've noticed it's bent, it may be because of a strong storm, someone from your household or a neighbor hit it with their vehicle, or it's starting to corrode. Fixing a leaning beam requires unearthing the base of concrete in the ground. This can be a bit tricky, so it's best that it's handled by a professional handyman.

3. Inoperable Door

If your mailbox door won't close properly, you increase the chance that your mail could be stolen, damaged by pests and weather, or blown around during a storm. Likewise, if the door won't open, your postman likely won't be able to drop off your mail—and you'll have to go all the way to the post office and collect it. What a hassle!

Generally, this problem can be solved by fixing the latch, ensuring the box is not bent out of shape, and double-checking that there are no problems with the hinges.

4. Issues with the Hinges

Repairing damaged, or inoperable hinges is a very common Newtown mailbox repair job. It could be that the receptacle you chose was poorly made and not built to last. Or it's getting on in years and exposure to the elements has finally taken its toll. Either way, you could choose to fix the failing hinge with a new rivet or screw, or perhaps get a new one installed.

DIY Newtown Mailbox Installation Guide

We're more than happy to help with Newtown mailbox installation service. However, if you're DIY-inclined, you might want to tackle installation on your own. To that end, our expert team created this basic guide to DIY installation.

1. Purchase a new unit and post. Typically, most boxes can be mounted on a 4x4-inch post. If you're keeping the original beam, it's important to ensure your new box fits on it. Likewise, if you're buying a new post, make sure it fits with your current box.

2. Confirm that your mailbox is USPS compliant. According to USPS requirements, the bottom of the receptacle must be 42 to 45 inches above the road, and 6 to 8 inches away from the curb.

3. Remove and recycle your old box. To remove the entire structure, you'll have to dig into the earth until you hit concrete at the bottom. Carefully remove the structure, using leverage such as a plank of wood if needed. You will need to break up all the old concrete and ensure that it’s been completely removed as well. Once done, you should take all materials to your local recycling center and dispose of them correctly.

4. Anchor your new post with concrete. A good tip here is to use someone else to hold the beam steady while you carefully pour in concrete. If you can't find a family member or friend to help you, secure the post with supports. Pour concrete into the hole, leaving a few inches of space at the top. You can cover this with soil once the concrete has dried. Be sure to keep the post straight, you won't be able to straighten it once everything has set.

5. Mount your new box. Wait until everything is dry, then attach your new box to the post. Follow any manufacturer's instructions provided, so you ensure it's mounted correctly.

6. Label and decorate. While you have to include your house number on your box, why not take this opportunity to really put your personal stamp on it! Whether you want it to perfectly match your manicured lawn and home, or you have kids and think it would be a fun project to keep them busy on a Saturday afternoon, decorating your mailbox is an ideal way to cap off the installation process!

Hire the Pros at Mr. Handyman of Newtown and Yardley Today!

Are you ready to boost your curb appeal with Newtown mailbox installation or Newtown mailbox repair service? Whether it has a few issues that need addressing or you want a brand-new model installed, our team can help.

We are highly skilled and experienced, so you can rest assured your receptacle will be installed correctly and work wonderfully year after year. Additionally, our team has proudly served countless homeowners in the Newtown area with their repair, maintenance, and installation needs—including in Yardley, Richboro, and Southampton.