Material Guide
Mailbox Materials: Stainless Steel vs. Steel vs. Aluminum
The material of a mailbox determines its lifespan, maintenance, and appearance over time. Three options dominate in Switzerland: stainless steel, painted galvanized steel, and powder-coated aluminum. Here's a factual guide to choosing based on exposure, budget, and desired style, knowing that all can be manufactured to postal standards.
The Three Materials at a Glance
No material is inherently "better"; each has its ideal application. The right choice depends on where the mailbox will be installed and the desired effect.
Detailed Material Comparison
This indicative comparison is based on the common behavior of these materials in outdoor use. The actual result depends on thickness, treatment, and location.
Choosing Based on Your Context
Whether by the lake or at altitude, humidity, Lake Geneva's spray, and temperature fluctuations put materials to the test. Stainless steel is the most reliable over time; powder-coated aluminum is an excellent alternative, offering more color and lighter weight. We'll help you adapt your choice during the on-site survey.
If color matters (anthracite RAL 7016, black, shutter color), powder-coated aluminum or painted galvanized steel offer the full RAL palette. Stainless steel imposes its metallic look, superb on contemporary architecture, but less suitable if you want a specific color.
For apartment building mailboxes, robustness and ease of maintenance are paramount. Powder-coated aluminum and stainless steel limit the need for repainting and resist everyday vandalism. See our apartment building mailboxes.
Regardless of Material, Compliance Comes First
The material has nothing to do with legal compliance: a stainless steel mailbox, however beautiful, is only compliant if it meets the Swiss postal standard (Postnorm). The standard explicitly requires a durable and weather-resistant material, which all three options in this guide fulfill.
Beyond the material, a compliant mailbox must have two compartments with minimum internal dimensions (letter compartment 10 × 25 × 35.5 cm with a 25 × 2.5 cm slot; deposit compartment 15 × 25 × 35.5 cm) and a regulated location, at the property line or freely accessible from the street (OPO art. 74), according to La Poste brochure 221.04. A non-compliant mailbox risks suspension of home delivery after a warning (OPO art. 31, al. 2, let. c).
Understand the Postnorm standard in detail →
Further Information
Unsure about the material? We'll advise you based on your project's exposure and style, and provide a clear, free quote within 48 hours, including manufacturing and installation.
FAQ
Does stainless steel age well?
Yes. Stainless steel is not painted and retains its brushed or polished appearance for years. A simple damp cloth is enough to maintain it. This is one of its great advantages over painted materials.
Can aluminum powder coating chip?
Quality powder coating, applied to a well-prepared surface, is very durable and resistant to UV and weathering. A significant impact can locally mark the layer, as with any painted finish, hence the importance of careful manufacturing.
Is painted galvanized steel a bad choice?
No, it's a good choice when budget is the priority. Galvanization protects the steel, and paint provides color. It simply requires a little more attention if the paint is scratched, whereas stainless steel and aluminum are completely rust-proof.
Get in touch
Send a photo on WhatsApp for a quick answer.
Open WhatsApp