Are you curious about the kind of concrete you should use for a mailbox post? The mailbox post should be sturdy, especially in a windy area. To keep the post sturdy, concrete can be added. There are many kinds of concrete available on the market so it can be confusing to find the one that you can use for your mailbox post. To help you get started, we have shared tips and ideas below.
What kind of concrete should I use for a mailbox post? There is no specific rule to the kind of concrete that you should use for your mailbox post. You can use any kind of concrete available at your local hardware store. On the other hand, it is ideal that you use a fast-setting concrete that easily sets and dries.
You must secure the mailbox post on the ground to prevent it from leaning or falling due to strong winds. Dig deep enough into the ground to place the post. A good solution is to use concrete to set the post into the ground. You can find affordable and fast-setting concrete from your local hardware store. These are easy to use and dry quickly.
Is it Okay to Use Concrete for the Mailbox Post?
It is okay to use concrete for the mailbox post as it creates a strong and stable foundation. When using the concrete, make sure to mix it according to the instructions written on the packaging. Dig a hole in the ground, place the mailbox post and cover it with concrete. You can use a level to keep the post in place while you fill the hole with concrete.
Is it Recommended that the Mailbox Post is Set in Concrete?
It is recommended that you set the mailbox post in concrete. The concrete will help keep the post in place for many years to come. It provides a sturdy base that remains strong no matter how tough the wind blows. Hence, if you are living in a windy area, you need to make sure that you set your post in concrete.
Steps on How to Use Concrete to Set a Mailbox Post
Digging a hole on the ground, mixing the concrete, placing the post on the ground, covering it with concrete, and letting it dry are some of the steps that you need to take when using concrete to set a mailbox post. Let us learn more about these steps below.
Step 1 – Dig a Hole in the Ground
The first step that you need to do is to dig a hole in the ground. Measure the mailbox post and dig a hole that is about one-half of the length of the post. Make sure that the hole is three times the width of the post.
Step 2 – Support the Mailbox Post
After digging the hole, the next step that you need to do is to support the mailbox post. Ask one of your friends or family members to hold the pole while you mix the concrete. Aside from that, you also need to use a level so that the post is in place.
Step 3 – Pouring the Concrete
The next step is to pour the concrete. After mixing the concrete with water, you need to fill the hole by applying it evenly on all sides. Make sure to pour the concrete evenly. This will make sure that the mailbox post is completely set on the ground.
Step 4 – Allow Concrete to Dry
The last step would be to let the concrete dry. You will need to hold the post until it can support its weight. Drying times take a few minutes to a few hours depending on the type of concrete that you use. Ideally, you choose a fast-setting concrete for this project. You can also check out this article that discusses if you can use acrylic paint on the mailbox. We have shared an in-depth discussion about the topic.
How Do I Keep My Post Level While the Concrete Dries?
To keep your post level while the concrete dries, you need to use a post level tool, and you also have to make sure that you keep weight and pressure off from the concrete while it is drying. Let us learn more about these things below.
Using a Post Level Tool
To keep the post level while the concrete is drying, you need to use a post level tool. It can be hard to level the mailbox post with the use of a conventional one-axis level. A post level will make sure that the post stays in place while the concrete is drying. Aside from that, it can also determine if the dimensions of the post are level.
Keeping Weight and Pressure Off the Post
While the concrete dries, you also need to make sure that the post is free of weight and pressure. Take note that concrete takes a few hours to dry completely. Putting pressure into the post while it is not thoroughly dry can make it unlevel.
Video – Setting a Post with Quickrite
John Kenower shared the video below on YouTube. It shows how to set a post using Quickrite. If you are thinking about securing your post on the ground using concrete, watch the video below for more information.
What are the Different Types of Mailbox Posts?
The different types of mailbox posts include plastic, aluminum, galvanized steel, and wood. Each has its pros and cons. Let us learn more about them below.
Plastic
One of the common types of mailbox posts is plastic. It comes in a wide array of colors, designs, shapes, and features. There are plastic mailbox posts that are created to look like painted wood. Mailbox posts that are made from plastic are durable and have a longer lifespan as compared to metal or wood posts.
Aluminum and Galvanized Steel
Mailbox posts are also available in galvanized steel and aluminum. These are types of metals that are durable and ideal for outdoor use. Aluminum is a popular choice because it does not rust and the finish can stay fresh for a long time. The only downside to aluminum posts is that they are more expensive.
Wood
Wood is a popular choice for mailbox posts because it is widely available, affordable, and easy to DIY. You can create a mailbox post using a 4×4 or 6×6 wood. You can choose from a wide array of wood available such as plywood and cedar.
How Deep to Dig for the Mailbox Post Hole?
The hole for the mailbox post should be about eight to ten inches in diameter. Make sure to dig deeper enough on the ground so that the post will not move or lean. We have also shared this article titled, how do I make my mailbox stand out? You can check out the article for more tips and information.
How Do You Stabilize a Mailbox Post?
To stabilize a mailbox post, you need to use a level too. Aside from that, you can also use materials around your house like rocks. The best option would be to use concrete. You can choose any type of concrete available in a home. On the other hand, you can use purchase concrete that dries fast so you do not have to wait long. You can also check out this article that discusses how to make mailbox swag with live greenery. We have shared an in-depth discussion about the topic.
How Much Concrete Do I Need For a Mailbox Post?
The amount of concrete that you need for a mailbox post varies depending on a few factors like the thickness of the post that you are using as well as the diameter of the hole. Usually, about 60 pounds of concrete is enough for a mailbox post that is placed 20 to 24 inches into the ground. You can also read this article that discusses how to refinish a mailbox post. We have shared helpful information that you can refer to.
Is Concrete a Strong Foundation for Your Mailbox Post?
Concrete is a strong foundation for the mailbox post. It can make sure that the post is secured to the ground and will not move or lean in case of strong winds. When using concrete, make sure that you mix it according to the directions written on the package. You can use a level so that the mailbox post remains straight while you pour concrete around it.
Conclusion
This article discusses what kind of concrete you should use for a mailbox post. There is no specific type of concrete that should be used for mailbox posts. You can use any type of concrete that you have. On the other hand, you should use concrete that dries fast. Follow the instructions written on the packaging when mixing the concrete and pouring it on the ground. The concrete should have the right consistency so that it dries accurately. Thank you for reading!