How Much Does a Brick Mailbox Cost?

Highlights

• It typically costs between $600 and $1,500 to build a brick mailbox, though the national average cost is $1,100.
• The exact cost to build a brick mailbox will depend on the type and size of the mailbox, the cost of labor and permits, and any add-ons or accessories the homeowner chooses.
• The main benefits of choosing a brick mailbox include added curb appeal, security, and durability.
• A homeowner may be able to build a basic brick mailbox themselves using a kit, but many homeowners prefer to leave this task to a professional who has experience working with brick and masonry.

A stately brick mailbox can be a standout feature in the front yard, one that adds curb appeal while also acting as a functional and necessary element. Brick mailboxes typically cost between $600 and $1,500 to purchase and install, according to HomeGuide, and the national average falls right around $1,100. Other options for a brick mailbox include faux brick and prefabricated styles.

The best mailbox for a home depends on the home’s aesthetic and the mailbox’s durability. And brick mailbox designs can range from a simple square column to one with arches and flower beds. Before embarking on a brick mailbox project, homeowners will want to check with their local municipality to determine whether a brick mailbox is permitted. Brick mailboxes are considered dangerous in some areas because they could cause extreme harm if a car were to hit them; therefore they aren’t allowed in many areas.

Factors in Calculating Cost

Brick mailbox cost is dependent on a number of factors that include the type of mailbox, the mailbox size, labor to build the mailbox, and the necessary permits to make sure the construction meets all local guidelines.

Mailbox Type

It may be a surprise to hear this, but not all brick mailboxes are actually brick. In some cases, they are faux brick columns that are placed over a post to give the appearance of brick. These types of mailboxes fall on the lower end of the cost spectrum, while custom brick mailboxes that are installed by a professional fall on the higher end. The actual mailbox that sits in the brick mailbox structure is available in a variety of styles, and the price will depend on the style and size.

Mailbox Size

The mailbox size will impact the final cost. This includes the actual brick mailbox structure and the metal mailbox that is enclosed in it. The larger the brick mailbox is, the more materials are needed and labor required to get it built. Choosing a larger mailbox to go in the brick structure and actually hold the mail will add between $30 and $80 to the final cost

Labor

While homeowners with some masonry experience may be able to build a brick mailbox using a brick mailbox kit or by designing their own, this type of job can also be done by one of the best masonry contractors, who will charge between $40 and $100 per hour for labor. In some cases, they may also charge a minimum service fee that can range from $250 to $400. Buying a faux brick or pre-built brick mailbox can be easier for DIYers and can cut down on labor costs.

Permits

Depending on where the home is located, the local municipality may have restrictions or guidelines for brick mailboxes and may require a permit, which can cost between $50 and $135. The mason doing the brick mailbox installation will likely know what permits are necessary and may be able to offer some guidance. Homeowners will want to check with their local municipality before embarking on this project because some neighborhoods prohibit brick mailboxes due to the danger they pose if someone were to hit one with their car. Building a brick mailbox without the proper approval could result in fines or other penalties.

Add-Ons and Accessories

Most mailboxes come standard with a mailbox flag attached to the side of the actual mailbox. Because the metal mailbox will be enclosed in the brick structure, the flag will need to be included in the construction of the brick mailbox. Depending on where the flag is located and how complicated the installation is, this can be an extra cost.

Large address plaques are a popular choice for bricked mailboxes because they add an extra touch of grandeur to the mailbox, and they can cost between $15 and $30. Brick mailbox lights can be added to highlight the address and draw attention to the design feature. The light plus the electrical work to run wiring to the home will add between $150 and $450 and may require a permit that can cost between $30 and $60.

The best locking mailboxes cost between $125 and $150, but adding one of these will add security to the mailbox and ensure that only those with the key have access. If the mailbox is used for a duplex or an apartment building, a double brick mailbox can hold two mailboxes in the same structure.

A variety of other mailbox accessories can help make a brick mailbox more unique and in line with the homeowners’ outdoor decor and taste.

Accessory Type	Average Cost (Materials Only)
Address plates	$15 to $30
Decorative keystones	$20 to $100
Lights	$50 to $450
Locking mailbox	$125 to $150
Planters or flower boxes	$50 to $150

Types of Brick Mailboxes

Although custom-made brick mailboxes with true brick are prohibited in some areas, there are ways around this if a homeowner is set on a brick mailbox. Faux brick mailboxes offer the look of brick but are easier to install and won’t cause as much harm if hit by a car. Homeowners can also opt for pre-built brick mailboxes.

Type of Brick Mailbox	Average Cost (Materials and Labor)
Custom-made	$700 to $1,500
Faux brick	$650 to $1,700 (materials only)
Pre-built	$600 to $1,200

Custom-Made

A popular feature for a brick-enclosed mailbox is to make the masonry more elaborate. A standard arch or eyebrow arch at the top of the mailbox can add interest and a nice design touch, but it requires more cutting and therefore more labor, which can drive up the price. Pricing for custom-made brick mailboxes depends on the type of brick, the size, and any additional features desired, though homeowners can expect to pay between $700 and $1,500 total for this type of mailbox.

Faux Brick

Faux brick mailboxes are a good choice for homeowners who want the look of brick but without the price and maintenance. Eventually, real brick may start to crumble and chip away, but this isn’t a problem with faux brick mailboxes. Homeowners can get the desired design touch and a much faster installation time than with actual brick. A faux brick mailbox costs between $650 and $1,700, and it can be installed by placing it over a pole set in concrete. One of the best handyman services can do the job for between $50 and $80 per hour.

Pre-Built

Some companies will build the brick mailbox off-site and then bring the pre-built brick mailbox to the jobsite. Choosing a pre-built version can typically save between $100 and $300 on the average cost to build a brick mailbox. The total cost of a pre-built brick mailbox is between $600 to $1,200, including labor.

Benefits of Choosing a Brick Mailbox

Whether they’re custom-made from real brick or are a faux version of the real thing, modern brick mailboxes add a little touch of stately nostalgia to a home. Brick mailboxes, where they’re allowed, can offer added durability and security while enhancing the curb appeal of the home.

Curb Appeal

Brick is a timeless material, and a red brick mailbox is a classic design touch that can work well with nearly any home’s aesthetic. If the home itself is brick, then a brick mailbox may be an even better choice. Professional masons can match the color of the mailbox bricks and mortar to those on the house to create a seamless look.

Security

Brick mailboxes are sturdy and will stand the test of time, working tirelessly to secure the mail. Choosing a brick mailbox, especially one with a locking mechanism, will add protection to the mail and make it difficult to destroy. Unfortunately, this is one of the reasons brick mailboxes aren’t allowed in many areas. Because they are so sturdy, they pose a risk to motorists who, in the event that they hit one of these mailboxes, could suffer serious injury or even die as a result.

Durability

Brick is a highly durable material known to last hundreds and even thousands of years. Because of this, choosing it as a mailbox material will virtually guarantee that the mail is protected for years to come. If the brick does start to crumble or is damaged in some way, the brick can typically be repaired by a mason, or the mailbox replacement can be faux brick to meet updated mailbox codes.

DIY vs. Hiring a Professional 

Searching the internet doesn’t actually turn up many results for do-it-yourself brick mailbox kits. Some local companies offer them to their area, but it’s not as easy as it typically is for a homeowner to hop on the internet and find what they’re looking for. This is likely due to the restrictions many municipalities place on this type of mailbox.

If a homeowner is able to install a brick mailbox, however, installation is often left to professional masons who are skilled at working with brick and mortar, but under the right circumstances, the homeowner may be able to take on the project in a weekend. For the look of brick without the actual brick, faux brick mailboxes can be a good stand-in. Faux brick mailboxes slide over the mailbox post for a quick way to customize the look of the mailbox. If the homeowner is installing the mailbox post, they’ll need to dig a hole and pour the concrete before setting the post and then installing the faux brick mailbox. This can also be left to a professional handyman and is a good option for a brick mailbox replacement if the original mailbox is damaged.

How to Save Money

While the look of a brick mailbox can add curb appeal and security to the mailbox, it can come at a substantial cost. Therefore, it makes sense to look for ways to save money on brick mailbox costs.

• Shop around. Contact multiple masons and ask for quotes, then compare them to find the one that best fits your budget.
• Stay simple. Choose a less expensive brick for the project or go with a lower-cost material such as stucco.
• Look into DIY. If you have prior experience working with brick, you may be able to complete the installation yourself to save money.
• Stick to the basics. Forgo any extras like lights or a locking mailbox, which will add to the overall cost of a brick mailbox.

Questions to Ask About Brick Mailbox Installation

Given the fact that many areas don’t allow brick mailboxes, there are a few questions homeowners will want to ask about brick mailbox installation before they actually begin. Homeowners can start by posing a couple of basic questions to their local municipality.

• Are brick mailboxes allowed in my area? If yes, what are the requirements and restrictions?
• Do I need a permit? If so, what permits will I need, what’s the application process, and how much will it cost?

If brick mailboxes are allowed in the area, there are several questions for homeowners to ask while shopping around for a contractor to build their new mailbox.

• Are you licensed and insured to do the work?
• How long have you been building brick mailboxes?
• Will you acquire any necessary permits before starting the job?
• Can you provide me with a list of references and some photos of your past work?
• Do you offer a written estimate?
• Do you offer a design, or do I need to design my own mailbox?
• Can you match the bricks to my house?
• How long will the installation take?
• Is cleanup included in the overall project cost?
• What, if anything, do I need to purchase before you come?
• What are your payment options?
• Is there a warranty and/or will you take care of repairs?

FAQs

Brick mailboxes are a stately and timeless addition to a home, but they’re not always permitted to be built. Because of this, it’s important for homeowners to do the research and contact their local municipality before beginning the project, as well as educate themselves on the answers to some of the most common questions about brick mailboxes.

Q. Does a brick mailbox add value to a home?

Because of the added curb appeal that a brick mailbox offers, it does have the potential to add value to a home. Brick mailboxes also add security to the mailbox and will last a long time. Because they are no longer allowed in many areas, they may be a desired feature in homes where they already exist.

Q. What is the standard size of a brick mailbox?

The brick mailbox itself doesn’t really come in a standard size and can be customized to nearly any taste. For a standard brick or faux brick mailbox column, the sides are about 2 feet wide and the height is around 53 inches. Standard metal mailboxes are typically about 5 inches wide, 6 inches tall, and 18½ inches long.

Q. Can I build a brick mailbox myself?

If a brick mailbox is allowed in your area, the answer is that yes, you can likely build a brick mailbox yourself. Brick mailbox construction requires a concrete pad on which to build the mailbox, overlapping rows of brick and mortar, and making sure to leave a space in which the metal mailbox will sit. Don’t forget the mailbox flag, and you can add an address plate or lighting if desired.

Q. How deep do I need to dig for a brick mailbox?

To install a brick mailbox, you’ll first need to install a concrete footer. The concrete footer should be a little wider than the mailbox will be and should be dug about 8 inches deep. To install the concrete, first dig the hole, making sure it is wide enough to accommodate the mailbox. Then, mix the concrete and pour it into the hole and allow it to fully cure before building the mailbox.

Sources: HomeGuide, Mailbox Empire