Large-scale residential blocks, such as a set of flats or student accommodation facilities, require a set of mailboxes fitted to account for the many that live within.
People living in these buildings can easily number in the hundreds, meaning some of the mailbox configurations can be substantial.
As per standard building design practise, mailboxes in these types of structures are usually located just within the main entrance of such blocks; this provides a handy visual reminder for residents as they enter the building, as well as allowing postal workers to deliver mail as quickly and efficiently as possible.
However – a notable downside of having community mailboxes so easily visible and accessible is that, particularly in certain areas with higher crime rates, they can be susceptible to theft or vandalism.
It’s been noted, for example, that such illicit activity is on the rise in inner-city London, as people seek to damage mailboxes in the hope that they can steal the contents.
Many instances of vandalism also concern arson; people dropping in lit matches or other flammable materials in an attempt to cause damage to them.
With this in mind, it’s important that architects and designers account for potential issues such as these when choosing a set of mailboxes for their architectural design schedule.
To start with, reinforced mailbox units that use a base material such as aluminium or stainless steel are preferable.
These are more resilient and tamper-proof and serve to protect the structure and contents effectively, while being durable enough to last for years.
Anti-arson devices are also an option being taken up by many of our customers.
One such example that’s growing in popularity is the fitting of thermosensitive polymer extinguisher tubes that automatically activate and burst when the internal temperature of the mailbox dramatically increases.
These are discreetly placed in the top of a mailbox unit, and within seconds of activation flood the space with suppressing gas to ensure the fire is contained before it can spread and cause further damage.
JBAI is able to provide our stock range of mailboxes – from manufacturers including Zwick, Wilka, FSB and Ryobi – within two working days of an order being placed.
We noted above how mailboxes are frequently fit so they’re the first thing someone sees walking in a building; however, this can also mean that they’re the last thing a design team get round to fitting when they’re near completion of a new build!
Our ability to fulfil mailbox orders so quickly can be of great benefit to projects that are in need of a rapid response to enable them to meet any fast-approaching deadlines.
We are highly experienced in modifying our stock range through our comprehensive design service, available to suit any size or circumstance (though this will take longer than two working days for delivery).
This includes surface-mounted, flush-fit, and free-standing models.
Simply get in touch with us for a free quotation and to find out more about how we can help you complete your project.