The Modern Mailbox

Things to consider when buying a modern mailbox

Mailbox designs have not changed greatly over the years, aside from the fact they are sometimes made from plastics and other materials besides steel. However, there still are differences and things to be aware of when purchasing a modern mailbox.

Security is one thing that has changed with modern mailboxes. In a world where security is increasingly an issue, many mailboxes now offer combination and other types of locks. While mailboxes now will probably be mounted the same way they were in the past, many people have mailboxes designed to give way if they are struck hard, be it from an intentional attack or by accident.

Like everything else, the cost of the modern mailbox has also changed.  You can still find them for $15 or so, plus the cost of the post, but many of the classier mailboxes can cost over $400.  A classic style box in black or white with a fluted post and a stylish support arm is a rather common modern mailbox, and the price will start at about $200.

You can basically pay as much as you like according to how many extras you add and how ornate you want the modern mailbox to be.  Materials for this style of the mailbox may be cast iron and metal or a combination of metal and plastic.  The plastics are generally the least expensive, but they hold up well against the elements.

If you pay hundreds of dollars for a mailbox, you do not want to place a cheap looking newspaper receptacle beside it.  For that reason, a modern mailbox should have a separate place to put the paper, most often directly under the main receptacle.

Anyone who has an attractive modern mailbox is going to be selective on how they apply their house number on the side.  There is the choice of a special order mailbox in which the numbers are custom added, or the alternative of purchasing the numbers and attaching them.

In many areas, there is no choice in the selection of a mailbox. Communities with covenants often have a designated mail receptacle that you must use to maintain uniformity in the neighborhood.

Some urban locations still have mail dropped at the front door.  For someone with this type of mail service, there are many attractive wall mounted boxes to serve that purpose.  Wall mounted boxes are generally sheltered and hold up better than the post units, and they cost about half as much.  Many wall mounts come with a "J" rack below the mail receptacle for the newspaper.

Materials for the wall mounted modern mailbox might be the ageless beauty of brass, antique copper, molded plastic, or galvanized aluminum.  Copper is often used because of the interesting way that it ages.  Cast aluminum is another favorite because of its sturdy iron look, and one of the latest trends is the stainless steel mailbox.

Along with the stainless steel look, many unusual designs can be found that are intended to be futuristic.  You will generally find these types of mailboxes described as "European" designs.

Your mailbox should match your personality and taste if you are given the opportunity to choose.  Many people keep the same mailbox for a very long time, so it is an important decision to make sure you end up with a receptacle you will be happy with for years to come.