
- As before, paint the mail box once with the flap closed, and once with the flap open. Never close the flap while the paint is wet, or it will get stuck.
- If you left the flag on, remember to move the flag up and down as you paint, so that you get the areas under it.
Full Answer
Can You Paint Your mailbox?
Whether your mailbox is just old, faded, or even rusted, it is possible to give it a new life with just a few coats of paint. This article will show you how to paint your mailbox. It will also give you a few ideas on how to add some final touches to it. Remove the mailbox from the wall or post, if you can. It should be screwed on.
How to repaint a mailbox post?
Repaint Mailbox Post. Oil-based formulas are compatible with most kinds of paints. Moreover, if you own a metallic mailbox post, make sure you purchase and apply a primer suitable for iron, galvanized steel, and aluminum surfaces. Primers make the new paint last longer and adhere better, and also enable you to obtain aesthetically pleasing results.
How can I decorate my mailbox?
Paint some designs onto the mailbox. You can paint them directly using a paintbrush, or you can sketch the design out first with a pencil, and then paint over that. Here are some ideas to get you started: Paint something garden related, such as butterflies, ladybugs, tulips, daffodils, or ivy. Paint some random designs, such as spirals and swirls.
What color should my curbside mailbox be?
You can choose any color for your curbside mailboxes, but it needs to contrast with the color of the carrier flag. In other words, you can't use a black mailbox with a dark gray or indigo carrier flag, nor can you use a red mailbox with a pink carrier flag.

Should you paint a mailbox post?
You should paint your mailbox post if you're looking for an easy project to clean up the front of your home. No matter what type of material your post is made out of, there is a type of paint and color out there for it. Just make sure your neighbors and homeowners association don't mind looking at a bright purple post!
What color should I paint my mailbox post?
The USPS allows for the use of curbside mailboxes in any color. You can choose a traditional color like black, white or brown, or you can choose a more modern color like green, red or blue. There are currently no restrictions regarding the color of curbside mailboxes in the United States.
Can I paint a mailbox post?
To paint the mailbox post, remove the mailbox and any address numbers. Sand the post to remove any moss, mold or mildew. Then, fill any cracks or holes with wood filler or paste. Apply two coats of primer and once dry, apply the first coat of paint.
What type of paint should you use on a mailbox?
exterior acrylic latex paintWhat kind of paint for a mailbox post? What is this? Using a quality exterior acrylic latex paint will last on your wooden post. No need to use oil-based paint as new technology allows these paints to be self-priming and mildew resistant.
What color should mailboxes be?
The mailbox may be any color. The carrier signal flag can be any color except any shade of green, brown, white, yellow or blue. The preferred flag color is fluorescent orange. Also, the flag color must present a clear contrast with predominant color of the mailbox.
What does black tape on mailbox mean?
Residents said they found three mailboxes in the community marked with black tape. They think that is how people in the underground world of dog fighting signal that dogs live at the houses. Claibourne Crouch's mailbox was marked with the tape.
How do you preserve a mailbox post?
Luckily, you have several options to help protect your post.Wrap the mailbox post to protect it from the strings. ... Purchase a protective "armor" for your post. ... Mulch around the base of the mailbox so the string trimmer doesn't get close enough to the post to come in contact. ... Hand-trim the weeds near the mailbox.
Can you paint a pressure treated mailbox post?
Once the wood absorbs water on the surface, it's ready for paint. It's important to use the correct type of paint and primer on pressure-treated wood. Our experts recommend priming with a latex primer and a compatible exterior latex paint, also known as water-based paint. We recommend you avoid oil-based paint.
How do you seal a mailbox post?
5:1110:30Pressure Washing & Sealing My Mailbox Post - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipIt's a clear wood sealer that i purchased at the home depot i saw jimmy lewis use it in one of hisMoreIt's a clear wood sealer that i purchased at the home depot i saw jimmy lewis use it in one of his videos.
How do you paint a metal mailbox post?
InstructionsWash the post with an all purpose cleaner to remove dirt and debris. ... Applying in a well-ventilated area, hold can of Krylon® Fusion All-In-One® in Gloss White 6-8 inches from the surface and paint using a sweeping side-to-side motion with slight overlap.Allow paint to dry for 30-60 seconds.More items...
How many coats of stain do I need for a mailbox post?
I used two coats of Verathane wood stain to cover the mailbox post. Two coats was prefect to get a nice golden color. It was a really warm day, so these coats dried in under an hour. I did this step first so it had time to dry while I removed the original post.
Will acrylic paint stay on a mailbox?
If you're going to use acrylic paints, the mailbox will need some "tooth" for the paint to grab on to. Use an exterior primer in a color of your choice. You can get metal primer in white now.
Can you paint a pressure treated mailbox post?
Once the wood absorbs water on the surface, it's ready for paint. It's important to use the correct type of paint and primer on pressure-treated wood. Our experts recommend priming with a latex primer and a compatible exterior latex paint, also known as water-based paint. We recommend you avoid oil-based paint.
How do you paint a metal mailbox post?
InstructionsWash the post with an all purpose cleaner to remove dirt and debris. ... Applying in a well-ventilated area, hold can of Krylon® Fusion All-In-One® in Gloss White 6-8 inches from the surface and paint using a sweeping side-to-side motion with slight overlap.Allow paint to dry for 30-60 seconds.More items...
How do I redo a mailbox post?
1:242:21How to Replace a Mailbox Post | Ask This Old House - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAnd to be 41 to 45 inches higher than the road to hold the post in place we're going to mix up someMoreAnd to be 41 to 45 inches higher than the road to hold the post in place we're going to mix up some fast setting concrete. We're going to add the water a little at a time so that we get a good stiff.
How do you paint a post?
1:316:11How to; Painting posts systematically - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipOne guys always say you load your brush tap on the each side. And then start in the middle. Bring itMoreOne guys always say you load your brush tap on the each side. And then start in the middle. Bring it down then get rid of a lot of the paint.
How to apply spray paint to metal?
Apply the first coat of spray paint once the primer driers. Choose an outdoor quality spray paint that is meant for metal. Hold the can 6 to 8 inches (c to c centimeters) away from the surface, apply a light , even coat using a side-to-side motion. Overlap each stroke by a little to prevent any gaps.
What to paint in a garden?
Here are some ideas to get you started: Paint something garden related, such as butterflies, ladybugs, tulips, daffodils, or ivy. Paint some random designs, such as spirals and swirls. If you like animals, you can paint your favorite animal, or animals commonly found in gardens, such as birds, frogs, and squirrels.
How to paint metal numbers?
You can leave them as they were, or you can update them with a new look. Prime the numbers using an outdoor quality spray paint primer that's intended for metal. Once the primer dries, apply an outdoor quality spray paint. You can use any color you want, but a contrasting color might make them more visible.
How to use non-adhesive stencils?
If you are using non-adhesive stencils, then secure them using painters tape. Apply the paint using a foam brush or a stencil brush. You can also use spray paint instead. Whatever paint you choose to use, make sure that it is outdoor quality.
How long does it take for paint to dry?
Check the label on your paint can for exact drying times. Some paints require only 2 to 4 hours to dry and cure, while others require anywhere from 6 to 72 hours.
Why won't my paint cure?
If it is too damp or humid, the paint may not cure properly. If it is too windy, dust and debris can get caught in the paint. Paint will dry the fastest on a hot day – but don’t choose a day that’s too hot. Then, the paint twill dry too quickly and you’ll end up with a bad finish.
What to do if you have a headache while painting?
If you get a headache while painting at any time, step away from your project and take a back. Return to your project once the headache goes away.
Why paint a mailbox post?
Painting your mailbox post helps complete your outside decor. Your mailbox does more than just provide a receptacle for your bills, letters and magazines. Mailboxes are one of the first things that visitors to your home may notice.
What is the best finish for a mailbox?
Finishes. Exterior paints for your mailbox post come in various finishes that range from flat to glossy. Flat finishes are better at hiding small imperfections in the post, while glossy finishes are easier to clean. Paint with a satin finish can provide a finish that cleans easier than a flat paint but shows fewer imperfections than a glossy paint.
What is the best paint for wood posts?
Oil-Based Paints. Oil-based paints are better for covering wooden posts that bleed tannin or sap, as well as metal posts that tend to rust. Oil-based formulas tend to provide more even coverage, especially on stained surfaces. Paints with an oil base adhere better than water-based paints, although using an oil-based paint over a water-based primer ...
What is the purpose of primer on mailboxes?
A primer can help paint adhere to the surface of both metal and wooden mailbox posts. A primer coat helps the paint bond to the underlying material. This initial coat also provides an extra layer of coverage that helps hide the color or pattern of the original material.
Is oil based paint better than water based paint?
Paints with an oil base adhere better than water-based paints, although using an oil-based paint over a water-based primer can result in peeling and chipping. Even though oil-based paints take longer than water-based paints to dry, they usually require fewer coats.
Can you use water based paint on metal?
The flexible surface of water-based paints allows the underlying material to shrink and contract. Water-based paint is suitable for covering galvanized metal posts and other surfaces that won't rust.
What is satin finish?
A satin finish is very appealing and easy to maintain in the long term. Flat finishes are ideal for perfectionists who want to mask the tiniest imperfections and keep their mailboxes looking like new for the longest period of time.
Is pinging allowed on Painters?
You can skip to the end and leave a response. Pinging is currently not allowed.
Can you paint metal mailbox posts?
Moreover, if you own a metallic mailbox post, make sure you purchase and apply a primer suitable for iron, galvanized steel, and aluminum surfaces. Primers make the new paint last longer and adhere better, and also enable you to obtain aesthetically pleasing results.
What kind of paint for a mailbox post?
Using a quality exterior acrylic latex paint will last on your wooden post. No need to use oil-based paint as new technology allows these paints to be self-priming and mildew resistant. We used Sherwin Williams Duration Exterior Acrylic Latex.
How to prep a metal mailbox for painting?
If your mailbox is in rough shape, use a metal wire brush to scrape off access flakes. Use an all-purpose cleaner or dish soap and water to thoroughly clean the box. Lightly scuff with extra-fine sandpaper and wipe clean.
What is the best paint for a metal mailbox?
We used Rustoleum Spray Paint High-Performance Enamel. Our mailbox has held up through all different types of weather.
How to paint frankenstrat pattern?
Of course, my husband did not just want a normal mailbox design. So if you are looking for a fun decorative painted mailbox, then we have you covered. First, you might be asking what is a frankenstrat pattern? Frankenstrat was Eddie Van Halen’s guitar that had this fun line painting on it and what inspired this creative mailbox. Not an Eddie Van Halen fan, you can still use this painter’s tape layering technique to create your own fun design.
Is DIY painting my domain?
Normally the DIY painting projects are 100% my domain. However, my husband wanted to try his hand at a fun decorative mailbox project. If you are a Van Halen fan, you will love what he did. He was very proud when neighbors understood his tribute to the band.
Can you paint a mailbox with only one color?
If you only want one color for your mailbox, then go ahead and put it back up. You can even take the flag off and paint and add it back on. If you want a decorative mailbox idea, then keep reading.
Can you spray metal mailboxes?
Of course you could just stop right now and go spray your metal mailbox one color. However, my husband had otehr plans. We know not everyone will love this design, but my husband loves that we probably have one of the most unique mailbox designs in the whole city.
What color are curbside mailboxes?
You can choose a traditional color like black, white or brown, or you can choose a more modern color like green, red or blue. There are currently no restrictions regarding the color of curbside mailboxes in the United States.
Do you need to choose a color for curbside mailboxes?
When purchasing curbside mailboxes for a neighborhood or residential community, you'll need to choose an appropriate color . The United States Postal Service (USPS) is pretty flexible regarding the color of curbside mailboxes, but there are still a few things you'll need to know. By complying with the USPS's color requirements, you can avoid the headache of having to replace or repaint your mailboxes in the future.
Can you use a black mailbox with a gray carrier flag?
You can choose any color for your curbside mailboxes, but it needs to contrast with the color of the carrier flag. In other words, you can't use a black mailbox with a dark gray or indigo carrier flag, nor can you use a red mailbox with a pink carrier flag.
