Protection From Snow Plows

We are approaching the end of February, but this month has brought harsh winter weather to much of the country. Snow and ice can last long after February, which means snow plows could be out and about even in spring. And when the plows are out, your mailboxes are in danger of being damaged.

Damage to mailboxes from plows can occur for a variety of reasons. It may be that plows cannot see a mailbox around snow banks. Mailboxes with a weak structural integrity may be damaged when snow from plows hits them. Plows may damage mailboxes because of poor conditions due to the weather. Whatever the reason, it results in a damaged or broken mailbox that needs to be replaced.

How can you avoid this fate? There are steps you may take before winter to reinforce your mailbox, but this late in the season it is likely too late for that. There are some things you can do now though to keep your mailbox as protected as possible.

Try placing an orange flag or tall post directly behind your mailbox. This flag or post should be significantly taller than your mailbox. It will be easier for a plow driver to see. The orange will stand out in poor weather, and the height will help your mailbox be seen around snow banks. If the driver can see something is on the side of the road, they are more likely to not hit and damage it.

Another way to keep your mailbox safe is to keep the area surrounding your mailbox clear. Shovel out the mailbox from all sides, not just the front. By giving a clear area of several feet in front of, behind, and next to your mailbox, snow that is pushed towards your mailbox has more space to go. Less snow will then accumulated around your mailbox, minimizing the damage.

If the ground is not too frozen, you may also consider securing your mailbox post. Your mailbox post should be made from a sturdy material. For additional strength, be sure your post is sunk down a minimum of 18”.

Use these tips to minimize the damage to your mailboxes from plows. If your mailbox is damaged, check to see if you can get it replaced for free or at a discounted price. This will vary from place to place. But hopefully with these tips, you won’t need to!