Rural Mailbox

Rural Mailbox DIY: As tough as they come

Constructed from very durable plastic, this mailbox will provide many years of  maintenance-free service. The single front door is spring-loaded, keeping the interior free from intrusive birds and wet weather. Postal codes require a 42" height from the ground to the bottom of the box. The post should be buried at least 36" into the ground. In rural areas of high snow accumulation, the horizontal arm may be lengthened to provide easier access over banked snowdrifts. Full instructions are included inside the box.

Step-By-Step

1. Cut the post and support pieces to size from 4" x 4" pressure treated lumber.

2. Cut a channel (rabbet) half way through the post and horizontal arm, referring to dimensions in diagram. Use a bench saw or circular saw, and clean out the channel with a chisel if necessary. Fit the two pieces of 4" x 4" together, and secure with two 3" deck screws on either side.

3. Cut the diagonal support piece to size, and secure with 3" deck screws. You may also cut angled ends on the two exposed ends of the 4" x 4" pieces.

4. Prepare a 3/4" plywood base as shown, and secure to the horizontal arm with deck screws. Pre-drill the mailbox sides as shown, and secure to the base with six 1 1/2" stainless steel or deck screws.

What You'll Need

Tools

measuring tape 1048-330

hammer 1030-308

chisel 1116-508

bench saw, or 1346-621

skill saw 1265-197

drill 1239-162

1/8" drill bit 1242-578

# 8 screw setter  bit 1227-540

mitre saw 1347-110

Material

4" x 4" pressure treated post (11 feet)

3/4" plywood  (9" x 16")

3" deck screws  2183-069

1 1/2" deck screws  2183-023

Beauti-Tone exterior paint or stain (optional)