What is your Mailbox Made of?

While mailbox construction is varied you’ll find most made all in part of heavy duty aluminum, with some steel as well. Mailboxes are constructed to withstand inclement weather for long periods of time and to dissuade thieves. Mailbox designers keep this in mind when they choose mailbox materials.

Standard mailbox posts, for example, generally the least costly and the least secure of any mailbox design and construction, are almost always made entirely of aluminum. Their finish is powder coated with many choices of color and look, such as bronze, brass, nickel, copper, and so forth.

There are some brass options for an antique look, whether for a commercial or residential mailbox or set of mailbox units.

In the residential category, the construction is solid brass. Some manufacturers will actually handcraft these brass mailboxes for a customized look. These are made to mount on the surface of the exterior of your home or commercial building, and come in your choice of vertical or horizontal style. You can also ask that the factory install security kits made of stainless steel and two identical stainless steel keys. Generally the U.S. Postal Service considers these front mounted mailbox constructions to be acceptable for residential delivery only.

Brass mailboxes, if that is your construction choice, can be used in commercial establishments in need of multiple mailbox units. They can be front or rear loading and give the attractive and nostalgic look of the 19th century U.S. post office. The door of each of these multiple units is constructed of solid die cast brass and has a clear window ¼ inch thick so the owner can readily see if there is mail to be picked up. The interior are made of steel but often coated with powder to give them the color of tan. The hinged doors are brass as well.

Outdoor courier boxes are often made of hard steel to withstand severe weather conditions.

Whichever material is chosen for the residential or commercial mailboxes, their construction is chosen with longevity and durability in mind.