How do you replace a metal mailbox that has rusted out inside a bricked in mailbox frame?

Question

How do you replace a metal mailbox that has rusted out inside a bricked in mailbox frame?

Answer 1

Karen, you need to be very careful to not damage the brick work. You might be able to collapse the metal mailbox and pull it out from the front. That mailbox could be nailed to a post stuck in the ground and then the brickwork was built around the whole thing.  If at all possible try to seal the inside of the box to prevent leaking.  That would be by far the easiest way to handle the problem. If the existing mailbox is a large one then consider buying a smaller size and just insert it inside the larger one. The open space between the two boxes can be filled with an expanding foam product called  "Great Stuff ". It is somewhat difficult to advise when you don't know exactly what the situation and construction is like. Perhaps a handy-man would be your best bet.

Answer 2

Paul had great ideas... especially sealent.. maybe some thick shalack(sorry don't know how to spell that)... my suggestion however is not as easy... I was thinking a pair of tin snips and snip, snip, snip.... they do cut metal.  I figure though that will not be a fun task... applicable but not fun.  Rust is great for flowers...iron.... pack it full of dirt and stuff a potato ivy in it... put a new box on top and brick around...just kidding.  good luck with that.