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Patio Block a Mailbox Column
Create a beautiful patio block mailbox column in a few simple steps. This weekend project will add curb appeal to your home and stability to your mailbox.
Tools & Materials
Use this checklist when you go to the store and purchase your items.
Prepare for Your Mailbox Column Project
- Use a semirigid backing material, such as non-expandable spray foam, as a form for the concrete grouting.
- Cut units as needed to accommodate various mailbox sizes.
- The long side of the large unit will always face the outside of the pillar. The inner column produces a 10-inch by 10-inch center core.
- Mark the column location and excavate a 12-inch deep by 42-inch square.
- Compact the soil.
- Add 6 inches of granular base material.
- Compact and level the base to avoid settling.
Install Your Column
Step 1
Install the first course. Place the blocks as shown, centered within the 42-inch square. Level front-to-back and side-to-side, making sure each block is level to each other. Insert the interlocking pins into the pinholes.
Step 2
Install the second course. Center the next course of units using the interlocking pins for alignment, and secure them with adhesive when necessary. Insert the pins into the pinholes. Continue to build the column, alternating between course layouts.
Dry fit each course of blocks before you apply the construction adhesive to ensure that you have the correct blocks, orientation and fit.
Step 3
Install the first mailbox course. Place the units and secure with adhesive when necessary. Use a semirigid backing material, (e.g. non-expanding spray foam) to create a seal 4 inches behind the face of the mailbox. Next, fill in the space around the mailbox with grout so that it’s flush with the mailbox face. Make sure the mailbox will open and close freely. Insert the interlocking pins in the highlighted center pinholes.
Step 4
Install the second mailbox course. Place the units and secure with adhesive when necessary. Fill in the space around the mailbox as described in the previous step. Clean and dry the top surface of these units to prepare for the cap units.
Step 5
Finish with 12 caps. Once you have all eight of the caps for the bottom layer in place, lift one cap at a time and glue the caps to the column using concrete adhesive. Center the four caps for the second cap layout to complete the column.
Project Information
- Skill Level: Intermediate
*Time and Cost are estimated.