Blackbutt parcel letterbox

[Herrenovacation]

A Blackbutt timber slab and concrete base were used for a bespoke letterbox large enough to accommodate parcels.

• The project
• Steps
• Tools and materials
• More inspiration for your letterbox project

The project

I always wanted a new parcel / letterbox, and I wanted it to look unique while being functional. I hadn't planned on doing this before I'd finished the many other yard projects, but unfortunately my old letterbox gave in after some rough handling. 

So the project was brought forward, since I was having issues receiving mail, and I am very conscious about spending money on temporary fixes. 

Steps

Step 1

The first step for me was to source the materials. This included a trip to a local farm with the parcel letterbox measurements, where I was able to find the perfect slab of Blackbutt timber for the project. 

Step 2

Next step was to build the slab. You will need to dig a hole, build formwork out of scrap timber (I used timber from a pallet I picked up from Bunnings). I used the slab of timber and the parcel letterbox to get the measurements of the size of the slab, but ensured it was a minimum of 100mm deep. used quick set cement, and due to the weight of the slab I also used two half stirrup post anchor's that I set into the cement. Pour the formwork, screed off concrete, and level. 

Step 3

Next step was to measure and cut the hole for the letter box, then sand back the timber slab.

Step 4

Stain/varnish/oil the timber slab - whichever is your preferred finish. I just used timber Diggers Anti-Mould Formulation Linseed Oil and Cabot's Natural Decking Oil. I chose oil over varnish as it will be easier to maintain over time, and no need to sand to remove varnish. 

Step 5

Then you can bolt the timber slab to the concrete slab, via the half stirrup post anchors. 

Step 6

Next step is to install the parcel letterbox.

Step 7

The Sandleford Parcel Letterbox comes with the parts you need for installation, and great detailed instructions on how to install. But in short, ensure the front chute of the parcel letterbox is flush against the slab. You will need to mark up and drill holes in the slab and then bolt the parcel letterbox to the slab, and then attach the faceplate.

Step 8

Once your letter box is installed you can then add house numbers if you wish - you can buy these at Bunnings. I actually purchased mine elsewhere custom made. These also came with detailed instructions and a template. Measure and align template, drill holes, and attach the house numbers with epoxy adhesive. 

Tools and materials

Materials used in the project:

• Sandleford Glenelg white matte parcel letterbox
• Blackbutt timber slab
• Half-stirrup post anchors
• Bugle batten screws
• Quick dry cement 
• Epoxy adhesive
• Sandpaper
• Stain/varnish/oil.

Tools used in the project:

• Hammer drill
• Masonry drill bit
• Drill driver
• Jigsaw 
• Level
• Tape measure 
• Ruler
• Pencil
• Shovel 
• Trowel
• Hammer
• Socket spanner
• Adjustable wrench
• Roller and paint brush.

More inspiration for your letterbox project

Bunnings Workshop member Rolando used railway sleepers to create a rustic letterbox.

Community member lhlifestyle made a bespoke timber letterbox as the final part of a front yard landscaping project.

Get more inspiration from 10 ways to improve your home's street appearance and our Top 10 most popular front yard projects.

[Dave-1]

Good Afternoon @Herrenovacation 

I missed the original post! And was just scrolling along looking at projects and this one caught my eyes. It looks solid and is so very "This is my place, welcome" but noooo to portch theives

Thats a beautiful front for a yard!

Dave

[Herrenovacation]

Hi @Dave-1 

Thanks so much, turned out so much better than I expected and yes no more porch theives here. 

Also glad my postie loves it 😊

Yes its such a nice front yard, I fell in love with it the moment I pulled into the driveway. 

[Nailbag]

Love this @Herrenovacation, a very impressive project.

Nailbag