How to Replace a Mailbox

In this video, This Old House landscape contractor Roger Cook explains how to replace a mailbox.

Steps:

1. Use shovel or posthole digger to dig a hole for the mailbox post; place dirt onto a tarp.
2. Keep in mind that bottom of mailbox must be 41 to 45 inches above street, and front of mailbox must be no more than 8 inches from curb.
3. Set mailbox post in hole and use a post level to hold it perfectly plumb.
4. Backfill around the post with 10 or 12 inches of soil.
5. Use a sledgehammer or long 2×4 to tamp down the soil around the post.
6. Add a little more soil and tamp again; repeat until hole is completely filled.
7. Remove the post level and attach the diagonal brace with galvanized decking screws.
8. Attach the mailbox to the post with galvanized decking screws.
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