A letterbox in a fence is constantly exposed to harsh weather — sunlight, wind and damp — so it is important to choose a product that will last. Beyond that, a letterbox is fitted at the front of a house, which is why more and more attention is paid to how it looks and to whether it suits the rest of the property. Here is how to choose a letterbox that will serve you for many years. We offer inox boxes.
Letterboxes and the applicable rules
Whatever the local rules, two practical points are worth following: the box should be lockable and made from suitable materials, protecting post against theft and damage; and it needs to be large enough to take the mail you actually receive.
What the guidance says
There is no legal requirement in the UK for a home to have a letterbox in its fence, and no fine for going without one. What exists instead is Royal Mail guidance, which matters in practice because deliveries depend on it:
- the aperture should be at least 230 mm wide by 35 mm high;
- it should sit between 700 mm and 1700 mm above the ground;
- it should be reachable without the postal worker having to open a gate or cross an obstacle.
Beyond that, two practical points are worth following whatever the guidance: the box should be lockable, and it should be large enough for the post you actually receive.
Beyond that, you have complete freedom in choosing a letterbox. Free-standing boxes are a good option, though more and more people opt for one built into a fence post. Here is why, and whether it would work for you.
A letterbox built into a fence
Through-type letterboxes built into a fence are convenient in use. It is best placed near the wicket, or in another clearly visible spot on the front fence. They work excellently at detached houses and at business premises alike. The postal worker will always have easy access to the letterbox, whatever time they reach the address.
Advantages of a through-type box fitted in a fence
Stainless through-type letterboxes are usually fitted in a fence, and they are:
- highly resistant to the weather (protection against damp) and to mechanical damage,
- properly protected against corrosion,
- minimalist — they suit any style of building.
A modern stainless steel letterbox for a fence
Our range includes a multimedia post made from high-quality aluminium and colour-matched to the fence. A through-type stainless box with an Inox finish is supplied with it. That combination guarantees a minimalist design and an attractive result. The through-type box locks with a key, which keeps the letters inside secure. All that is visible on the fence is a tasteful panel with everything you need — the through-type letterbox, for instance, beneath which we can cut any opening required.
The post is available in a range of colours — it is powder coated throughout in any colour from the RAL palette. It can be matched to the colour of the facade or the fence. Before choosing a colour we would encourage you to order free samples.
The multimedia post is an innovative solution. Make daily life easier with the multibox: you can fit whatever you like into it, and we will match it to your individual needs. At the client’s request we cut an opening for any door entry phone or video entry phone. We can also apply any house number and street name, backlit with LEDs. Smart solutions like these are worth thinking about. Another excellent idea is receiving a notification on your phone the moment the postal worker leaves an item in the box, with no need to come onto the property. Add a suitable sensor to a finished box and enjoy the convenience.
A practical multimedia post — a way to a more striking fence
The multimedia posts we offer are growing in popularity. Get in touch and we will gladly show you what a finished multibox looks like.