Basic Letterbox Designs

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This may be the time of emails and instant messages, but snail mail continues to be relevant. Formal correspondence is still delivered via the post, and there are people who just cling tightly to the charm of traditional mail. In the past and to date, it’s always been a thrill to find letters and cards in the letterbox. A residence or business certainly wouldn’t be complete without one.

As you know, the letterbox is the receptacle that receives incoming mail. When we envision one, we usually see the typical rural letterbox that is mounted on a post, poking out above some tall grass and wildflowers at the end of a long drive. That’s the way of curbside delivery.

Alternately, we may imagine a slot on a door for door-to-door delivery. That’s definitely a more common letterbox style for urban residences. Suburban addresses may opt for either option.

Of course, when it comes to apartment buildings or condominiums, there is usually a centralized mail delivery station. Some neighborhoods have also adapted this style and chosen to erect a cluster of letterboxes in just one spot on the street.

Still, as clever as a centralized mail delivery station may be, it’s not quite like having the conventional letterbox. It’s usually more convenient, more private, and more secure to have one right there on your property. Besides this, a letterbox can add an attractive feature to your home’s façade or complement its style.

Indeed, letterboxes come in a wide variety of styles. They certainly come in all shapes and sizes. Nonetheless, there are more general designs that people can build on and embellish. What are the basic kinds of letterboxes you can choose from?

• Brick-in – This makes a great feature in your front yard, boosting your property’s curb appeal. You basically have a brick pier with the letter box about as wide as one brick and as tall as two installed flush against the bricks. Many homeowners also insert a tube below the letterbox. This functions as a newspaper holder.
• Fence-mounted – As the name suggests, this type is installed on the external side of your fence. There is a design that you can find to match whatever the style or material of your fence is.
• Post-mounted – Again, it is as its name implies. It’s a letterbox that sits on top of a post or is attached to one.
• Wall-mounted – Like the fence-mounted post, this goes on the exterior portion of a wall. It can be made to complement the wall or provide a nice contrast against it.
• Freestanding – This comes in many designs. You basically order it and install it in your yard as is, ready to receive mail.

Whatever kind of letterbox style you end up choosing, just make sure it’s attractive, durable, secure, and protective against the elements.

About the Author: Kenneth Lawrence is a passionate “handyman”. But he also values the importance of getting expert help whenever necessary. He visits sites like http://www.sandleford.com.au. And he shares guidelines and tips about home improvement.

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