Today, mailbox posts come in a variety of styles.  Classic ones have a timeless appeal, however, it can also be fun to choose from a wide range of decorative types to enhance your outdoor decor.  One thing remains the same though when preparing to install or replace a mailbox post.  Before you dig, know what's below and make a quick and easy phone call to JULIE at 811 or 1-800-892-0123.  You can also enter your locate request right now via E-Request.   


1. NEW POST?  OLD POST?  EITHER WAY, CALL JULIE FIRST.
Even if you are replacing an old, existing mailbox post with a newer one you still need to contact JULIE.  The original dig may have nearly missed a utility line.  Digging an inch or two more either way could hit a line you don't know is there and disrupt service to you, your neighbors or your entire block not to mention cause harm to you or result in costly repairs and fines. 

2. NEXT, CONTACT THE POST OFFICE.
After your lines have been marked and you know it's safe to dig, it's best to check with one more place, the post office.  There are specific regulations for the height of the mailbox, which side of the road it should be installed and distance from the road so the carrier can reach the inside of the box without leaving the vehicle.  After receiving all that information coupled with your utility lines being marked you're ready to start!

3.  DIG THE HOLE.
To install a new post, use a post hole digger to make the job easier.  A depth of eighteen to twenty-four inches is a good goal for a stable post, but keep in mind the height regulations set by the post office.

Wooden posts are often less expensive that other metal or formed plastic posts.  Make sure that if using a wooden post it is treated.  When you're finished digging your hole, place a few inches of gravel at the bottom to create drainage for water away from the post and to prevent the bottom of the post from rotting.  Remember to dig carefully within the tolerance zone.  

4. CREATE A STRONG FOUNDATION.
Concrete will certainly provide a stable foundation for the post but it doesn't have to be used.  You can fill the hole with dirt around the mailbox and tamp it down periodically to provide strong support.  However if you decide to fill the hole with concrete, mix it according to the directions and leave about 5 to 6 inches at the top so you can fill with dirt after it dries.  Use a level to make sure the post remains perfectly straight as you fill in your post hole.  A small level that can be attached to the side of the post would be best. 

5. FINISHING TOUCH.
The last stop is to attach the mailbox to the post according to the instructions.  To beautify the surroundings of the post, plant some grass seed on the top layer of the soil.  Add a few plants or flowers.  These last little touches can really enhance the outcome of the project. 

Remember, calling JULIE gets your utility lines marked for free.  Once a professional locator from each member utility company comes out and marks where all the utility lines are and you wait the required amount of time (2 working days), you're ready to start installing your new mailbox.