Background Information
Mail slots have been a beautiful addition to the front doors of many homes and businesses in the United States since the mid nineteenth century when the post office determined it would be a more efficient means of delivering letters to residents when they were not home. slot Prior to this, a post man would need to wait until the home or business owner answered the door to receive their letters and this wasted (according to the post office) at least an hour and a half of time each day simply waiting. By installing a slot (or sometimes letter box) in the door, this allowed the post man to drop off letters any time of the day for residents to receive when they returned home. Although they are less common now, a solid brass mail slot is still a wonderful way to complete any front entryway set and is still used in many residential neighborhoods.
Choosing a Mail Slot
Mail slots are available in a variety of designs and finishes but a solid brass construction is an important feature because this ensures strength and durability over time. These slots typically have an exterior flap to protect against weather and an optional interior flap. If you are using a pre-existing hole in your door make sure that you choose a mail slot that will fit – not all mail slots are the same size so check the overall measurements and the measurement of the opening. They are available in a variety of finishes including Polished Brass, Antique Brass, Polished Chrome, Brushed Nickel and Oil Rubbed Bronze.
Whether you are installing a mail slot for the first time or replacing an older one, it is a great opportunity to update the overall appearance of your front door and create a new and exciting theme. Coordinate your mail slot with your existing hardware or replace your older door knob sets, doorbells and knockers with coordinating patterns. By using a common finish for all these items you can create a common theme without needing to use the same pattern and/or design. Accenting your new hardware with a dramatic lion door knocker or coordinating kick plate can complete completely change the look of your door without needing to replace it.
Where to Shop
LookInTheAttic & Company offers a wide selection of beautiful front door hardware including mail slots, knockers and kick plates and they offer free design assistance and help. Search for a solid brass construction and be sure to ask questions like what is the internal opening measurement or is this item available in any other finishes? The front door is the focal point of the exterior of your house and a great opportunity to reflect your unique personality.
