The Best Metal Mailboxes To Have On Your Front Yard

Mailboxes should be built to last if you want to use them for years to come. This guide covers what you need to know about metal mailboxes and how to choose one for your home.

Why Metal Is Great for Mailboxes

Metal is a very sturdy material that’s been around for many, many centuries. It can be used in many fields and is malleable when hot but can be molded into durable solid shapes when cooled. Metal is a great choice in particular for mailboxes for the following reasons:

It’s tough

The weather almost always has an effect on mailboxes. Over time this can cause wear and tear to the mailbox, causing it to deteriorate. Metal is a good choice because it’s a lot stronger than other materials and can handle wind, rain, and UV exposure fairly easily. Plus, you don’t need to clean or maintain the material too often.

Rust is the main drawback that prevents metal from being the perfect material. Not all metal rusts, but many mailboxes use materials that do. Eventually, your sturdy metal box will be difficult to open and dirty to look at. There are solutions to this, of course. You could purchase a mailbox made from a metal that doesn’t corrode, such as aluminum. You could also apply a coating that prevents rust. But as long as your mailbox is made out of metal, expect it to lose its color and shape over time.

It’s more secure

Security is a very important feature when it comes to mailboxes. Many people steal letters and packages in the hopes of finding something of value. This can be a problem if you’re expecting to receive important letters or items in the mail. Some mailboxes come with built-in security and anti-theft mechanisms, but these don’t mean much if you can simply break the mailbox.

With metal mailboxes, breaking a mailbox is much more difficult. Even simply prying the mailbox open can be a challenge. There are even mailboxes designed to handle such forced entries.

It looks more attractive

In an age where plastic is present in just about everything, metal is seen as the more luxurious alternative. This is the case with many products across various industries, mailboxes included. Metal mailboxes give off a premium feeling and look that ties your front yard together. 

Things To Consider When Buying a Metal Mailbox

Color

Metal mailboxes are available in a variety of colors. Some of the colors are fairly plain such as black or white whereas others are more pronounced like red, green, or blue. Different colors can suit different homes, so you’ll want to pick a mailbox in a color that suits your home’s overall style. 

Security 

Some mailboxes have built-in security mechanisms that make it difficult for people to snoop in and steal your items. These features are great to have if you’re worried about theft, and while they may come at a premium they’re well worth the extra cost if it means your items stay safe.

What Are the Types of Metal Mailboxes?

Classic mailbox

A classic mailbox features a single arched wall. This mailbox design was commonly used throughout the 20th century. While it’s not seen nearly as often today, many homeowners still prefer this classic look.

Square mailbox

This type of mailbox emphasizes the box part of the mailbox. It’s square in shape and usually comes with extra security features that make it difficult to pry open. Square mailboxes don’t look particularly stylish, but they offer more space for small packages that have odd dimensions.

Wall-mount mailbox

Wall-mount mailboxes are mounted on the wall of your house. If you don’t have a lot of space for a dedicated mailbox in your front yard, or if you don’t have a front yard at all, then a wall-mount mailbox can be a decent option.