Are Outdoor Letterboxes Rainproof?
This time last year, the forecasters were informing us that July was the driest month in England since 1935. However, it’s a different story now; it’s been chucking it down this July! I don’t believe we’ve even had one dry day and that has raised the question ‘Are Outdoor Letterboxes Rainproof?’.
Are Outdoor Letterboxes Designed for British Weather?
Outdoor letterboxes are a desirable alternative to through the door letter plates. They are recognised as a way of improving energy efficiency and home security, but can they withstand the British weather?
None of us want soggy mail, therefore, it is important to know what design features are in place to protect our deliveries from the rain. So, what can we tell you?
Firstly, our outdoor letterboxes are manufactured from robust and weather resilient materials, including powder coated galvanised steel, aluminium and stainless steel. Such materials don’t rust or corrode when exposed to the elements, so the post box remains a solid structure.
Secondly, many external mailbox designs feature a sloping roof or small grooves. These channel water away from the letter flap.
Thirdly, all openings are designed to prevent water from getting in. The easiest to see is the flap which covers the letter delivery slot. In most models, this completely covers the opening and some include spring closing to ensure it isn’t accidentally left open.
Finally, all of the letterboxes we supply are manufactured by specialists in Europe for the European market. Companies in countries like Sweden and Poland are no strangers to adverse weather conditions, so they design outdoor letterboxes that work. For added reassurance, our products are sold with a warranty.
Installing Weatherproof Outdoor Letterboxes
There are a few additional considerations when installing outdoor letterboxes, which can further enhance rainproofing.
Did you know that the wettest UK weather typically comes from the West? So, when letterbox openings are west facing, they are exposed to higher volumes of rain. When installing, use this information to plan a favourable position for a free standing letterbox. Just a slight change can reduce the risk of water getting in when mail is posted or retrieved.
As for our through the wall letterboxes, they are typically supplied in two parts. The letter flap slides in from the front of the wall and the hold from the back, join together in the middle. For this style, our installation guidance includes applying a silicone sealant in the small gap between the wall and the letterbox, both front and back. This plays an important role in keeping your mail dry.
If you have particular concerns about weatherproofing, outdoor letterboxes can be installed in covered areas. Porch entrances are a popular option.
Opening the Letterbox Hold
Our letterboxes all feature a secure hold, where your mail is kept safe and dry until you unlock it. In some models, the hold door drops down when opened, so any mail spilling out will drop onto the door, rather than the damp ground.
To prevent soggy mail, wait until the shower has passed before retrieving your post! If rain does get in when you are getting your mail out, give it a quick wipe to dry the inside before your next delivery is posted.
Trusted Supplier of External Letterboxes
Letterbox4You is a trusted supplier of individual external letterboxes for houses or banks of multiple post boxes for flats and commercial multi-occupancy buildings. Our European designed and manufactured models offer robust, resilient and long-lasting mail delivery options.
If you have any questions about our models, delivery times or installation, please get in touch with our helpful team: 01296 839401.