Workshop
Ask a question

The Bunnings Workshop community can help with your home improvement projects.

How to replace my bricked in letter box?

rhys1
Growing in Experience

How to replace my bricked in letter box?

Hi, I need to replace my letter box I got home from work today and found the front of my letter box had been ripped off the measurements are roughly W 260mm x H 165mm x  L 355mm just need some advice if there is a product that can fit in the hole.

Regards Rhys

1000017431.jpg

1000017432.jpg

Noyade
Home Improvement Guru

Re: replacing my bricked in letter box

The front with the letter opening 'awning.'

 

20250509_132535.jpg

 

On the inside, is the letter 'slippery dip.'

Dunno if it's necessary, but it should prevent letter corners getting caught in the rebated area. This is 'C' - 227 mm.

Still got some fine finishing to do.

Cheers.

 

20250509_132542.jpg

 

Melway7
Building a Reputation

Re: replacing my bricked in letter box

Hi @Noyade. Ive been and checked my letterbox.  

 

I really love your original idea but see the challenges you have highlighted.  My original opening was somewhere around 185/190 before being stolen.

 

I think full hog of 227 for the mail opening probably won't be the best as the internal size is 191 so mail would potentially be pushing up against the uprights at the external edges and maybe getting stuck or damaged.  Also the top section of the letter box uprights (30mm ones) has been mostly ripped away when it was stolen so I would be concerned about having something substantial to anchor it to at the top if done in 2 sections.  I hope this makes sense.

 

I had this thought, not sure if its doable or a good idea...can I 25x25 square be in 2 parts each side?  A small section which is from the top stopping just above the mail opening, then a large section that is just below the mail opening to the bottom?  So in theory no 25x25 at the opening so it can be made the width of 190?

 

My drawing ability is not as good as yours but I can try if this isn't making sense.

 

Thanks,

 

Mel

Melway7
Building a Reputation

Re: replacing my bricked in letter box

Hi @Noyade, looks like my update I just posted might have come too late, that's ok as I am very happy with whatever you are able to provide me.  I have to say, your mind and your workmanship are amazing.  Thank you so much.

Noyade
Home Improvement Guru

Re: replacing my bricked in letter box

Evening @Melway7 

 

"I just posted might have come too late"

 

No, it's all good mate - easy fix. Tomorrow I'll cut back that internal lip to fit the gal square.

Just be aware you will then have only a 174 mm width for your letters.

 

Can you please PM me your address. I'm sure I can get it sent to you on Monday.

 

Cheers. I'll post an updated photo of the alterations on the weekend. The best thing about metal and welding is you can revise till you run outta electricity. 😊

 

20250509_171430.jpg

 

 

Dave-1
Community Megastar

Re: replacing my bricked in letter box

Evening @Noyade 

Nice work as usual :smile: 

 

Dave

Melway7
Building a Reputation

Re: replacing my bricked in letter box

Hey @Noyade,

 

Pls don't change a thing.  

 

I love what you have created and I am sure it will be a superior addition to my letterbox.  I think I prefer the wider opening so I will forgo the gal square and take it as is pls.

 

I will PM you my address now and also find out what I owe you.

 

I'm very excited to see this soon.

 

Mel

 

Nailbag
Home Improvement Guru

Re: replacing my bricked in letter box

Brilliant work and outstanding community support here @Noyade 

 

Nailbag

Noyade
Home Improvement Guru

Re: replacing my bricked in letter box

Morning @Melway7 

 

"I think I prefer the wider opening"

 

I had the angle grinder poised to cut - then thought I'd better look at the Workshop first for updates. 😁

Below shows how the square tube reduces the width to accommodate the rebate. I think if we were neighbours we could easily sort it out, but if I weld them a millimetre or two in the wrong position - you may have to cold chisel some areas or use excessive amounts of glue. Shown also is the 30 mm edge. I was thinking of drilling holes for screws - but probably better to see how the liquid nails goes.

You owe me nothing, as discussed. This is to deter dementia - keep moving, keep thinking and keep tinkering.

I'll sand it and give it a final coat - and package it. I may even be able to get to the Post Office today before 12.

Cheers.

 

20250510_091155.jpg

Melway7
Building a Reputation

Re: replacing my bricked in letter box

Hey @Noyade you are a gem! So so happy with what you have created for me and for your kindness and skill. I look forward to receiving my bespoke letterbox face and I’ll keep you updated on the installation. If you ever make it down my way there is a cuppa and a piece of cake waiting for you!
Happy days ☺️

Noyade
Home Improvement Guru

Re: replacing my bricked in letter box

G'day @Melway7 

Package sent yesterday.

Sent you a PM.

Please keep us informed - even if it doesn't fit. I need to learn from my mistakes. 😁

Cheers.

Why join the Bunnings Workshop community?

Workshop is a friendly place to learn, get ideas and find inspiration for your home improvement projects