Mailbox Painting
How does your mailbox look these days? Updating your mailbox is a simple project and can go a long way to improve the overall look of your property. Painting a design can add beauty, creating a new structure can add stability, or some homeowners have recycled old materials to add personality to their mailbox. Maybe the easiest way to upgrade your mailbox is to simply add paint.
Tools & Materials
Like any project, you will need the right tools and supplies to do the job right the first time. Because the sooner you finish the sooner you can get on with well, anything you want.
Rags
Water
Wire brush
Primer paint
Black metal paint
Red metal paint
Brush or Wagner Sprayer
Screwdriver
Drop cloth
Extension cord
Preparation
Preparing and cleaning the surface is one of the most important parts of the painting process. Follow these simple steps to ensure your job looks great and lasts for years to come.
Step 1 - Remove Mailbox
Remove the mailbox from the post or stand and place in a good working area that is well ventilated and out of the direct sunlight.
Step 2 - Clean the Surface
Wash the mailbox down to remove all the dirt and dust. Allow the surface to get completely dry. Remove any address numbers or stickers from the mailbox.
Step 3 - Surface Prep
Sand down any rust that has formed. Replace any bolts, rivets or screws that are missing. Cover the flag with tape so it won’t get primed or painted. Wipe down any of the rust that has been brushed off.
Painting
Now that you've completed the paint prep work, you're ready to begin painting.
Step 1 - Priming
It is important to prime the mailbox because that will allow the paint to adhere to the surface and provide better protection. Apply the primer by spraying it on in even coats. Be sure to cover all sides, top, bottom, and back. Let it dry at least 24 hours.
Step 2 - Paint
Apply the paint with a brush or paint sprayer to the mailbox in slow and even motions. Cover the entire surface. Once the mailbox is dry, carefully remove the tape and paint the flag.
Optional: Once the flag is dry, add the address stickers to the mailbox.