Decorative Mailboxes

by Giorgina Devereaux

There are many decorative mailboxes to choose from, which are available in different styles, colors, finishes, and features. 

Some mailboxes can be special ordered with a custom monogram, along with additional options, such as a newspaper box, mailbox topper, and a box planter. 

You can choose from attractive mailboxes that are constructed of copper, aluminum, steel, and wood materials. 
 

Also, you can have it mounted on the wall or opt for a post.  The post is one more feature that adds elegance and exquisiteness to the mailbox because of its interesting characteristics.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Decorative Mailboxes

Although choosing a mailbox may seem simple, there are several factors to consider, which include the following:

• Styles

• Materials

• Sizes

• Colors and Finishes

• Privacy Concerns

• Rules and Regulations

Styles

When choosing a mailbox, take into consideration the style of your home exterior.  You want to make sure you choose a color and style that suits your desired theme perfectly.  In doing so, this will allow you to find a mailbox that will blend in nicely with the style of your home exterior. 

Styles include the following:

• Contemporary

• Rustic

• Traditional

• Victorian

• Vintage European
   

Decorative mailboxes are available in the following themes:
 

• Bluebird

• Bunnies

• Cardinals

• Cat

• Chicadees

• Deer

• Eagle

• Fire Department

• First Responder

• Fleur de Lis

• Floral Leaf

• Harley Davidson

• Horse

• Hummingbird

• Hydrangea Rose

• Labrador

• Lighthouse

• Log Cabin

• Mallard

• Maple Leaf

• Owls

• Pelicans

• Pheasant

• Pineapple

• Quail

• Roosters

• Sailboats

• Topiaries

• Trout

• Tulips

• Turkeys

• Wildflowers

• Wolf Pack

Materials

Decorative mailboxes are constructed of a variety of materials, which include:

• Aluminum

• Brass

• Copper

• Steel

• Vinyl

• Wood (such as, cedar)

Before settling on a mailbox, consider how each material weathers the elements. 

For example, heavy duty steel is rust resistant and can make your mailbox virtually indestructible. 

Aluminum also does not rust and is relatively low maintenance. 

Vinyl mailboxes range from a standard thickness to a double walled plastic making it very durable.  In addition, vinyl mailboxes are rust resistant, practically maintenance free, and won’t fade, split, or warp.
 

With brass, you get sheer elegance, and when properly cared for, it lasts for years. 

If you prefer a more rustic look, consider cedar.  However, bear in mind that cedar requires on-going maintenance, such as an application of sealant on a regular basis to prevent it from looking weathered. 

Sizes
 

The size of a mailbox is something else to consider and depends on how much mail you receive.  Wall mount mailboxes range from small to extra large sizes while post mount mailboxes are found in standard, large, and extra large sizes. 

Colors and Finishes

With regards to the types of colors available, you can find mailboxes that come painted in a flat, semi-gloss, or high gloss textured paint.  Some decorative mailbox manufacturers carry mailboxes that resemble a canvas painting.  Make sure you opt for colors that will complement your home exterior.

Finishes of decorative mailboxes include:

• Almond with Polished Brass

• Antique Bronze

• Antique Copper

• Black

• Black with Antique Bronze

• Black with Gold

• Black with Polished Brass

• Black with Satin Nickel

• Bronze

• Bronze Patina

• Bronze with Gold

• Dark Bronze

• Metallic Bronze with Polished Brass

• Metallic Bronze with Satin Nickel

• Green and Brass

• Paint

• Rusted Finish

• Satin Nickel

• Powder Coated White Finish

• White with Antique Bronze

• White with Gold

• White with Polished Brass

• White with Satin Nickel

• White with Verde Brass

Privacy Concerns

Privacy is something to consider because of the prevalence of identity theft.  A locking mechanism on a mailbox provides added security, privacy, and peace of mind.  There are various mailboxes that offer this feature, which range from a simple key lock to a fully digitized keypad lock.

Rules & Regulations

Before settling on a mailbox, make sure that it conforms to the guidelines set forth by the U.S. Postal Service (USPS).  To ensure correct placement and height, contact your local post office before installation. 

Typically, mailboxes are installed at a height of 41 to 45 inches from the road surface to the inside floor of the mailbox or point of mail entry and are set back 6 to 8 inches from the front face of the curb or road edge to the mailbox door.  A mail carrier has the right to refuse delivery of your mail if you opt for a non-approved mailbox.  Make sure that the mailbox you select is USPS approved.  This information is listed somewhere on the mailbox packaging. 

Lastly, if you are part of a homeowner’s association or live in a community that has a specific set of rules, make sure to check what their restrictions are on mailboxes. 
 

Types of Decorative Mailboxes, Personalization, and Options

The following types of mailboxes are available:

• Wall Mount

• Post Mount

• Column Insert Mailboxes (Masonry Installed)

• Mailbox Personalization and Options

o   Monogrammed

o   Mailbox Topper

o   Stylish Motif

o   Newspaper Box

o   Post and Bracket

o   Box Planter

o   Two Door Post Mount Mailboxes

o   Double, Triple, and Quad Mailbox and Post Units

Wall Mount mailboxes consist of a small box near the front door into which the postman delivers the mail.  It is designed to hold numerous pieces of mail, magazines, and small packages.  Some have a soft pad for quiet operation when closing.  This type of mailbox is common in urban areas. 
 

Post Mount mailboxes are mounted on a post.  You can add a mailbox topper, newspaper box, and even a box planter.  There are different styles to choose from and it will make a lovely touch to your home exterior.

Column Insert Mailboxes (Masonry Installed) are designed to be recessed installed in columns or masonry. 

The front door to this mailbox gives the overall design a majestic feel. 

It is a great alternative for those who want a solid mailbox installation. 
 

You can find some that feature an antique copper powder coat finish and a sealed door for extra protection.  

Others feature a fleur de lis accent, which adds an elegant touch.
 

Mailbox Personalization and Options include the following:

• Monogrammed

• Mailbox Topper (customized with last name or street address)

• Stylish Motif  

• Newspaper Box

• Post and Bracket

• Box Planter

• Two Door Post Mount Mailboxes

• Double, Triple, and Quad Mailbox and Post Units

You can personalize your mailbox with a custom monogram that consists of a letter on the face of the mailbox door.  This looks absolutely stunning and adds interest to the overall look of the mailbox. 

Another option is to have a mailbox topper custom made with your last name or street address.  If you prefer to keep things simple, you can opt for a stylish motif, such as a fleur de lis pattern or a maple leaf on the mail door. 

Other options consist of a newspaper box that can be mounted beneath the mailbox and a decorative post and bracket. 

The newspaper box is designed to allow magazines to lie flat, eliminating tears and creases. 

For a more classic look, consider a lantern style mailbox. 

This provides a magical look to your home exterior because it is reminiscent of cobble stone streets of an era long gone. 

It features glass that is paired with rich detailing and a finely detailed base and post. 

If you want to bring a splash of color to your mailbox and exterior scheme, consider one that features a box planter.  This will allow you to plant your favorite flowers and enjoy their beauty when they are in full bloom. 
 

Two Door Post Mount Mailboxes feature a door on each side for convenient and easy access.  This is a great option for folks who live on a heavily traveled street since it gives you flexibility in terms of which way you would like to retrieve your mail. 

Double, Triple, and Quad Mailbox and Post Units are mailboxes that are set up in clusters.  In some neighborhoods, there are mailboxes that are arranged in sets of two, three, or four. 

This allows you the opportunity to coordinate several mailboxes at the same time.

As you can see, decorative mailboxes are more than just something that contains mail.  It is a fabulous way to express your sense of style.  

Aside from serving as a lovely accent to your home exterior, it helps tie all of the elements together. 

Since a mailbox is one of the first things friends and family see upon arrival, it deserves to make a fashion statement.  With so many options available, finding one that is elegant and durable should not be difficult.