Letterboxes

Letterboxes

A letterbox is a simple receptacle for receiving mail that can be at a private residence or a business. They are an integral part of the social make-up and provide a great opportunity for an expression about the house and the residents. Though electronic communication has dominated the way communication is handled, the significance of letterboxes in New Zealand remains integral.

These mailboxes have evolved into a modern look that not only gives off an up-to-date feel but still offer practicality. It remains one of the timeless staples of the exterior design, and its popularity is again on the rise with a wide range of contemporary designs to choose from. They come in an assortment of sleek minimalistic designs that are sure to complement the modern exterior. 

Types of Materials

Wooden

A wooden letterbox is a more traditional form that remains fashionable to put outdoors in New Zealand. Though it may be affected by exposure to the outer elements, durable material such as Accoya wood is exceptionally long-lasting and durable. Letterboxes made of this wood present a rich, earthy colour and a sleek aesthetic appeal. Accoya wood is ideal for these boxes, being a form of modified timber that is resistant to sun damage and moisture.

Metal

Robust, impenetrable, and long-lasting, the metal letterboxes present everlasting durability and resistance to outside damages through a rust-proof coating. These types are best suited for an industrial-inspired exterior or a more contemporary one. Their streamlined design makes the exterior stand out and guarantees safety for high-priority posts.

Plastic

The biggest advantage of using a plastic letterbox is that it will never rust. They come in many styles and shapes and fit perfectly with the rest of the setting. Though they are susceptible to cracking from exposure, they are the most cost-effective out of all materials in New Zealand. They are ideal for areas where the annual rainfall level is high.

Letterbox Designs and Types

Wall-mounted

The way that a mailbox is attached to the exterior influences how it looks. This is a perfect way to integrate the box into the house siding. It is recommended for this design to choose a colour that blends with the siding. A wall-mounted letterbox is also very safe and frequently found in urban settings in New Zealand. It offers easy mail retrieval and usually comes with an overhanging awning.

Post mounted

These boxes are freestanding and sit at the side of a driveway or along a curb. These mailboxes are frequently found in rural settings where the mail carrier slips in the mail without leaving the vehicle. They set the character to the entryway and come in a plethora of colours and styles. Additional styles include pillar letterboxes and the freestanding letterbox, both make an instant impression. The column-mounted mailboxes tend to make a substantial style statement and last longer.

Mail Slots

These old-school boxes bring on a traditional charm and simplify the way mail is delivered. It is ideal for urban homes in New Zealand where the postman delivers the mail on foot. The slot is usually in the door from where the mail is delivered.

Fence letterbox

A fence letterbox is easy to install and is the version that can be made to custom specifications of an already existing fence. The design of these types of boxes allows a tailored number engraving to take the style up a notch and add a personal touch.

Styles of Letterboxes

Traditional

The mail slots and post mounted letterboxes give a more old-school vibe to the boxes and go well with a ranch styled theme in New Zealand. The traditional designs also work well with large open porches and overhanging beams.

Modern

Sleek trimmed designs work for a modern themed exterior and are also more practical. Boxes with a metal finish are best suited to give a modern allure and are also quite durable.

Victorian

For homes in New Zealand that are asymmetrical, two or three stories tall,  have steeply pitched roofs, and large wrap-around porches, the Victorian-styled boxes work best. They never fail to give off a trendy appeal that is unmatched.

Additional Features

Additional features add to the functionality of the boxes. For instance, securing the mail with a lock is a great way to ensure privacy and many boxes come with this feature. For easier access, aim for a mailbox that opens from the rear.

It has been seen that a letterbox with a separate holder for newspapers keeps the hassle of overcrowding and swished envelopes at bay. Adding personalized details such as name or house number to the box ensures that no one else gets the mail and it also gives a bit of a personality to the home. 

If you need assistance to find the best letterboxes for your home or office, ArchiPro provides a connection to the various professionals in New Zealand, ready to assist with all requirements and questions. Simply click "Contact supplier" on the product's page, or visit the supplier's website directly from the product's page.