How to Install a Mail Slot

A mail slot is an easy alternative to collect mail instead of walking down the driveway to the mailbox. The slot is usually placed in the front door of the house. Instead of calling an carpenter to handle the job, install your own mail slot.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Mail slot
• Pencil
• Measuring tape
• Drill
• Screws
• Saw
• Sandpaper

1. Purchase a mail slot from a hardware store. Measure the door to find its center. For a paneled door, find a suitable non-paneled area for the installation.

2. Mark the door at the specific height where you plan to install the mail slot. It should neither be too low for the mail carrier to reach nor too high to damage an important parcel thrown through the slot.

3. Hold the mail slot against the door and trace its shape with a pencil. Make sure it is parallel to the base of the door. Measure the internal flap of the mail slot and mark the dimensions inside the sketch.

4. Drill holes through the sketched corners of the internal flap. Insert the edge of a saw in one hole and cut along the outline of the inner flap. Smooth the edges with sandpaper.

5. Measure the bolts on the underside of the mail slot and use these dimensions to mark a point just inside the outer flap sketch. Drill the points to make holes for the bolts.

6. Put the mail slot in from the other end of the door so that the bolts fit nicely in the holes. The back of the slot should sit properly in the sawed-out inner flap. Tightly screw the nuts onto the bolts and drill in any additional screws that need to be put in from the front.

7. Test the mail slot by pushing in paper and parcels from outside your door.

Tips & Warnings

• Use eye goggles and gloves when working with the tools.