If you're looking to freshen up your curb appeal, learning how to paint a metal mailbox is a great place to start.
Time 1 to 2 hours plus dry time
ComplexityBeginner
Cost$20-$40
Introduction
Learn how to paint a mailbox like a pro. This project ensures a durable, attractive finish that instantly boosts your home's curb appeal.
We all want to enhance our curb appeal while keeping costs low and not dedicating too much time to the projects. Painting your mailbox is a task you can complete on a Saturday morning and requires only a few materials. Before you begin, make sure to check the forecast! You don’t want to get caught in a thunderstorm or work in temperatures outside the 50-90-degree range.
Using spray paint is the quickest and easiest method to paint a mailbox, but you must work outside or in a well-ventilated area and never in an enclosed space. I went with a sleek black protective enamel spray paint for my metal mailbox to give it extra defense against the elements. Taking down the mailbox was a breeze, but I did have to swap out a few rusty screws.
Preparing before spray painting is the trick to making the mailbox look great. This means smoothing out dents, clearing away debris, and tackling any rust. I discovered more rust than I expected, so I had to put in some extra time to clean it up. Next time, I would wait until the final coat of spray paint has dried and hardened completely before handling it. I had to fix some smudged spots and repaint them, so as tempting as it is, be patient and don’t rush!
Tools Required
- Drill
- Putty knife
- Wire brush
Materials Required
- Black spray paint
- Cardboard
- Dish soap
- House numbers
- Microfiber towel
- Plastic painting sheets
- Sponge
- Spray paint
- Spray primer
- Steel wool
Project step-by-step (10)
Step 1
Detach the mailbox
Detach the mailbox from the mailbox post using a drill to unscrew it from the bottom. Make sure to save the screws, as you will need to use them to reattach the mailbox later. Cover the post with a plastic paint sheet if you cannot remove the mailbox.
Step 2
Prepare a work area
Lay a plastic sheet and cardboard under the mailbox. If needed, the cardboard will make it easy to move the mailbox while drying.
Step 3
Remove the flag
Remove the mailbox flag from the mailbox.
Step 4
Remove the rust
Prepare the surface by removing rust using a wire brush or steel wool. With a putty knife, scrape off any stickers still stuck on the mailbox.
Step 5
Clean the mailbox
Use a clean sponge with soapy water to clean the mailbox. Rinse and dry with a clean microfiber towel.
Step 6
Prime the mailbox and flag
Spray the flag with a thin primer coat, then spray primer on the mailbox. You may need to apply two coats depending on how well the first coat goes on. If there are areas that need additional primer, spray on another coat.
Step 7
Paint the mailbox and flag
Once the primer is dry, apply two thin coats of black spray paint to the entire mailbox. Then, apply two thin coats to the flag using red spray paint. Two coats are necessary for full and even coverage.
Wait until the mailbox is completely dry. Then, use a drill to install the mailbox back onto the post with screws.
Step 8
Reattach the flag to the mailbox photo
Reattach the flag to the mailbox once it is completely dry.
Step 9
Attach address numbers
After painting your mailbox, remember to add your house number.
For those who live in a city or town, the United States Postal Service guidelines state that every curbside mailbox must display the house number “in contrasting color using neat letters and numerals at least one inch high.” If you live in a rural area, you may also be required to put the road or highway name in the mailbox. This text should be visible on the side of the box facing the carrier’s regular approach or on the mailbox door if they are grouped together.
Step 10
FAQ
How do you remove mailbox sticker numbers?
To avoid scratching or damaging the mailbox, gently scrape off the numbers with a plastic putty knife. If the adhesive from the sticker numbers is stuck on the mailbox, use an adhesive remover such as Goo Gone.
Do I have to use a primer before painting a mailbox?
Yes, a primer should be applied before spray painting the mailbox to achieve the best results. Primer ensures proper bonding of the spray paint to the surface and enhances the overall look of the finished paint job.
