Brick Mailbox Repairs – Brick Doctor

Bad things happen to brick mailboxes. Every year, hundreds are run over by cars and trucks in D/FW alone; many others are vandalized. But way too often it may be the result of poor initial construction–loose bricks, rusted out mail receptacles, deteriorated mortar, and leaning mailboxes–that creates a need for repairs.

Brick and mortar is basic, but requires fundamental work specifications to prevent problems from developing prematurely. No one wants to pay for repairs twice…and no one wants to look at an eyesore in their front lawn for years to come. Understanding a few basics can help you know how to judge the key characteristics of a quality brick mailbox. Check here for brick mailbox fundamentals.

Here’s a list of common brick mailbox problems that you may need help with…or, that you’ll want to avoid when planning a new one:

A leaning brick mailbox almost always points to a faulty foundation. — A poor foundation allows a top-heavy brick mailbox to lean over, becoming an ugly distraction rather than an enhancement.

Thin mail inserts wear out and become a serious problem with a brick mailbox. — Most brick mailboxes include the cheapest insert the “bricker” can find. A brick structure demands an upgraded receptacle!

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Leaning Brick mailboxes point to inadequate foundations.

Have you ever noticed brick mailboxes that lean? Just like your home, it is only as stable as the foundation it is built upon. When building a new mailbox (or any other masonry structure), make sure it includes a significant concrete foundation, designed to fully stabilize and support the structure indefinitely, even in varying soil conditions.

If yours is leaning but otherwise in good condition, the good news is that a leaning mailbox can sometimes be straightened, adding additional concrete underneath. Although we strongly recommend against it because this procedure cannot be guaranteed, it might possibly extend the life of your mailbox for several years.

Rusted mailbox receptacles are also extremely common.

A rural mailbox which mounts onto a wood or metal post typically is a five to ten dollar item, made of thin sheet metal or plastic. If such a mailbox rusts, warps, falls apart, or is vandalized, it can be replaced inexpensively. However, installing such a box into brick and mortar should be considered grossly substandard. A semi-permanent structure calls for a quality, long-lasting insert. To replace a rusted or damaged mailbox insert usually requires rebuilding the top portion of the brick structure–an expensive and usually avoidable repair. We also offer a mailbox door only replacement option.

The good news is that the mailbox can usually be repaired–you don’t necessarily have to start from scratch. It also gives you an opportunity to upgrade your brick mailbox.

Brick Mailbox looking disheveled because of loose and deteriorated brick. — One missing brick can look as bad as a missing front tooth! The rusted mail insert doesn’t help either, nor the holes showing along the edge of the top layer. This poor workmanship is easily avoidable.

Brick mailbox with poorly placed brick and poorly tooled mortar. — Poor materials and workmanship detract from the value of this masonry mailbox. Notice deteriorated mortar, cheap rusty mailbox and flag, poor brick cuts in the arch, and exposed brick holes.

Does your brick mailbox compliment–or detract from– your home’s beauty?

Call us, email, or use our contact form. Let us help you repair or replace your ugly mailbox, and insure you don’t end up with an expensive lesson or a sub-standard job!