Hint: It doesn’t involve cinder blocks.

At some point in your life as a homeowner you will need to purchase and install a new mailbox. Installing your mailbox can be an easy and rewarding project if it is done properly.

After you have purchased your mailbox post, call your local post office to determine the correct height and placement for your post. You will need to know how high and how far from the curb the mailbox can be placed before you begin. Once you have measured and chosen your location:

1. Dig a post hole about two feet deep using a post hole digger or a long handled spade. The hole should be deep enough for 6″ of gravel (to allow for proper drainage) and to set the post at the correct height (usually, 42″ off of the ground).
2. Place the post and cover the top of the post with a scrap of lumber, then use a hammer to tap the post slightly into the ground to keep the post held in place.
3. Fill the hole with the prepared concrete mix. Eliminate air pockets by poking holes in the mixture with a stick.
4. Check with a level to make sure the post is straight and let the concrete harden.
5. Shovel 2 or 3 inches of sand or dirt on top of the cement layer.
6. Wait overnight for the concrete to dry completely.

Now you’re ready to attach your mailbox!