How to build a letterbox?

AnnaH1

Hi there,

I'm thinking of trying to make a version of this letterbox, but with spotted gum decking for the slats instead of composite.  

I'm trying to work out the best way to attach the slats to the posts... In the rear view picture it looks like the slats are screwed onto angle. Is that what I should do?

With regards to anchoring the posts, there is no existing concrete slab, so I think I would be concreting them into the ground.  

Many thanks,

Anna

  

MitchellMc

Hi @AnnaH1,

It sounds like you’re on the right track with your plan. If you’re using, for example, 50x50 black posts concreted into the ground, you could then attach vertical strips of black aluminium angle to the posts using black metal self-drilling screws. Once those angles are in place, you can drill through them into the back of your horizontal timber slats to securely fix them. This method will give your spotted gum slats a neat, clean look while keeping the structure strong.

 

For finishing touches, we also have black post caps that fit nicely on top of the posts, which will help protect them from weather exposure and give the letterbox a polished appearance. You might also want to pre-drill your timber slats to prevent splitting, and applying a good outdoor finish to the spotted gum will help maintain its colour and durability over time.

 

With this approach, you’ll get a sturdy, attractive letterbox that combines the warmth of timber with the sleek look of black accents.

 

Please let me know if you have any questions.

 

Mitchell