Brick Mailbox Cost

A charming brick mailbox can add classic curb appeal to your home. However, building a sturdy and attractive brick mailbox does require some initial investment. In this article, we'll break down the average cost of materials and labor needed to construct a basic brick mailbox from scratch.

Materials

The main materials for a brick mailbox include:

• Brick - For a basic brick mailbox design using standard size bricks, plan on roughly 50-100 bricks depending on the size. The average cost for a bag of approximately 50 bricks ranges from $30-50.
• Mortar - You'll need mortar or masonry cement to lay the bricks. A single bag (about $5) should provide enough for a small mailbox.
• Concrete - Pouring a concrete base/foundation provides stability. Figure on using around 1-2 bags of premixed concrete ($5-10 per bag).
• Post/brackets - Attach a 4x4 post or decorative wood or metal post/brackets to anchor the mailbox. Estimate $15-30 depending on the materials.
• Mailbox - Purchase or salvage an actual mailbox to mount ($15-50 depending on size/features).

For a basic brick mailbox, plan on spending $75-150 on materials. For a larger or more decorative design, materials could reach $200-300.

Labor

Figuring labor depends on your skill level. For a beginner, construction may take 8-16 hours spread over a couple days. An experienced mason could complete a simple mailbox in 4-8 hours. At $15-30 per hour for hired help, plan on:

• $120-480 for a DIY beginner project
• $60-240 for hiring a pro to build it

Additional Costs

Consider these optional expenses:

• Landscaping - A border of stones, plants, or mulch around the base adds $30-100.
• Accessories - Decorative mail slot, house number, lighting, etc. can increase costs by $20-100.
• Concrete stamp/stain - Textured or colored concrete looks nicer for $15-30.
• Permits - Check if building permits are required in your area. Fees typically under $50.

Total Cost Estimates

To estimate the full cost of a DIY brick mailbox, factor in:

• Basic materials: $75-150
• Labor for DIY: $120-480
• Additional costs like landscaping: $50-200
• Total for basic DIY brick mailbox: $250-850

For a professionally installed mailbox, estimated total costs are:

• Basic materials: $75-150
• Labor for pro installation: $60-240
• Additional costs: $50-200
• Total for pro installed brick mailbox: $185-600

Tips for Building a Brick Mailbox

Here are some tips for successfully building your brick mailbox:

• Lay a thick concrete base/foundation at least 6 inches deep.
• Use bricks laid in a running bond pattern for strength and attractiveness.
• Mix mortar to the proper consistency - not too dry or wet.
• Use spacers to keep uniform joints as you lay each row of bricks.
• Cap it off with a solid header row of bricks across the top.
• Attach the post securely down inside a hollow core filled with concrete.
• Seal it and apply a number/name for the finishing touch.

Brick Mailbox Design Ideas

Getting creative with the design is half the fun of a masonry mailbox. Here are a few design ideas to consider:

• Classic square or rectangular shape in various sizes.
• Round turret style for a charming cottage look.
• Add decorative accents like sold arches, quoins, or contrasting colored bricks.
• Carve initials, numbers or a family name into the bricks.
• Incorporate landscaping elements like plants or a stone border.
• Top it with a slate, tile or metal roof for a finished appearance.

Choosing the Right Brick Colors

Brick comes in a rainbow of earthtone shades to complement any home. Consider:

• Red, orange and yellow bricks for traditionally styled houses.
• Darker browns, grays and blacks match modern or Craftsman homes.
• Blends of mixed colors add visual interest.
• Glazed or textured bricks also offer unique design potential.

Maintenance Tips

With proper upkeep, a masonry mailbox will last for decades. Some basic maintenance includes:

• Clearing plants and debris from mortar joints.
• Repointing mortar as needed to prevent weathering.
• Sealing the bricks periodically to protect against moisture and stains.
• Inspecting the post attachment for signs of weakness over time.
• Touching up paint, numbers or accessories annually.

With some effort, you can create an attractive, functional, and affordable brick mailbox that will stand the test of time. Just be sure to plan accordingly for the upfront materials and labor costs involved in the project.

Wishing you the best in your brick mailbox building endeavor.