Often times neglected, letter boxes are key in creating the first impression of a home. Your letter box is the visual staple that all guests and by-passers recognize. By simply investing a few more dollars in the model and make of your mailbox, you can create an impression that will last. It is an essential outdoor home accent that can serve both a decorative and useful purpose. Yes, it’s the letter box Australia home buyers see first, before seeing the interior of the house.
There are two basic types of letter box Australia residents can choose from. They’re categorized based on the fact where the letter box can be placed on the property – curbside and wall mount boxes. The choice you go with will be largely determined by the type of residence you live in. Some residencies use a mail slot instead of a box, but that can be changed.
Type
Curbside boxes are often found in suburban and rural areas where homeowners have large plots of land. Depending on the style of the curbside box, a means of support can be a simple post which can be attached to the center bottom of the letter box, or an ornate post that has a cross arm which holds the box. Decorative brackets can and should be included in the design of the curbside box to support the cross arm. The curbside box can have both front and back openings and a letter box arm that mailmen can lift after they’ve placed something in it. The letter box arm is an indicator that mail has been added to the box.
Wall mounted letter boxes on the other hand, are found in more populated areas where people don’t have much front yard space on their disposal. As their name implies, they’re mounted to the exterior of a building by using screws to attach the box to the wall. Many wall mounted letter boxes feature a top box and newspaper hooks that are very handy for holding large envelopes and flyers. Before buying a box of this type, determine whether you prefer one that’s oriented vertically or horizontally, as they can be found in both forms.
Material
Both wall mounted and curbside boxes can be made from a wide range of materials, so you should consider the climate in the area you live in, as it will effect its longevity. Aluminium mailboxes are rust resistant and are the best option for people who live in coastal areas. Galvanized steel is also a great option. Copper or brass mailboxes are both elegant choices but they require quite a bit of maintenance. Wooden mailboxes are a great choice, as long as you add a coat of sealant to them so you can protect them from the elements.
Style
Mailboxes can be designed in various styles to match the general design of the house’s exterior. Victorian style boxes feature carved moldings with finials on top. Country style boxes are decorated with folk art paintings. Contemporary mailboxes are designed with straight, clean lines and little decoration.
