DIY Methods for How to Fix a Mailbox Door
A broken mailbox door can be very annoying for your mail carrier and can lead to a host of problems for your mail. As shown in the above image, your mailbox is visible to anyone who passes by. Your mail is also subjected to the weather which can lead to having your mail blown away by the wind or even worse, wet mail. Here are a couple of quick and easy DIY ways on how to fix a mailbox door.
Retrofit Doors for Metal Mailboxes
This is the way to go if you have a brick encased mailbox. This door can be fitted into an existing mailbox opening. It is secured from the inside using spring-loaded metal clips. You are not required to do any cutting, drilling, or anything else destructive. You do have to remove your current door, if it’s still attached. Then, just take the replacement door and “snap” it into the opening of your existing mailbox and you are done. You can read the almost perfect Amazon reviews if you’re unsure whether this works.
Perhaps the biggest advantage of this route is that you don’t have to tear up your brick to replace the whole mailbox. These come in different sizes so measure your door height to see if you have the standard 6.25″ or the standard 8″. These are available in white, black or natural aluminum.
You can also buy these directly from the Bayshore Mailbox Company.
Retrofit Door Latches
Perhaps your door structure is in good shape, but it just keeps falling open! Whether it’s due to the wind blowing it open and or it simply just won’t stay latched, you may need to look into replacing the latch and handle. These parts can be purchased cheaply as replacements. Here is a solid one for $12.50.
Built to last, it is made of aluminum and painted black. It attaches with a couple of screws to the mailbox and another couple of screws to the mailbox door. It’s a very simple repair and solves an annoying problem.
It is also possible to purchase the top latch for as low as $10.00.
FAQ:
1. Q: How can I fix a loose mailbox door?
A: You can tighten the screws or hinges on the mailbox door to fix a loose mailbox door. If the screws are stripped, you’ll need to replace them with new ones.
2. Q: How do I know if my mailbox door needs to be replaced?
A: If your mailbox door is severely damaged, rusted, or warped, it might need to be replaced. You can also check if the mailbox door is properly aligned with the mailbox itself.
3. Q: What tools do I need to fix a mailbox door?
A: You’ll need a screwdriver, a drill, screws, and replacement hinges (if necessary) to fix a mailbox door. You might also need sandpaper or a metal file to smooth out rough edges.
4. Q: Can I fix a mailbox door myself or should I hire a professional?
A: You can fix a mailbox door yourself if you have the right tools and experience. However, if you’re not comfortable with DIY repairs, it’s best to hire a professional to do the job.
5. Q: How long does it take to fix a mailbox door?
A: The time it takes to fix a mailbox door depends on the extent of the damage and your experience with DIY repairs. It can take anywhere from a few minutes to a few hours to fix a mailbox door.
