The ins and outs of installing mail slots

House Doctor | Gary Dymski

June 10, 2004

We would like to install a mail slot in our Stanley steel front door. What is involved in cutting a hole in a steel door? What tools are needed? How difficult is it to do? Where can one buy a mail slot? And if we don't want to install it ourselves, how do we find someone who can do the job?

George Wechsler, North Bellmore

You should be able to find a mail slot in a home center or hardware store. If you can't find a suitable style, check with a contractor or company that sells and installs entrance doors. The company that installed your Stanley door should be able to help. Another resource is the Baldwin Brass Co., which manufactures brass components for entry doors, including kick plates and mail slots (www.baldwinhardware.com). A line of mail slots manufactured by Salsbury Industries can be viewed online at www.mailboxes.com.

The installed mail slot will allow cold air to enter your home in winter and hot, humid air in summer. You probably have some type of air-conditioning unit, so putting a hole in an exterior door - even one with a storm door - might be an energy concern.

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One way to reduce this is to use a Draft Dodger insulated mail slot, available at www.joneakes.com. Jon Eakes is a TV personality whose how-to program airs on HGTV and the DIY Network.

As for installation, you'll need a saber saw, a variable- speed drill and some marking and measuring tools. You' will have to drill a pilot hole through the door, then cut out a rectangular opening for the slot with the saber saw. Use a blade designed for metal, and make sure it's sharp. Installation instructions and even templates usually are included with exterior door accessories.

Since you don't seem too confident about installing the slot, check with your hardware store or a more skilled friend or neighbor. Some stores refer installers and repairmen for small jobs, and there's a good chance one of your neighbors knows a local handyman.