There’s something uniquely Southern about a good mailbox. Around here, it’s more than a spot for bills; it’s often the first impression your home makes and sets the style tone early.

I’ve replaced plenty of mailboxes across DeKalb and north Atlanta, and you can tell a lot about a homeowner’s pride from the one standing at the street. Some are leaning a little, others have seen better days after a weed whacker incident or two. But a small upgrade out by the curb can completely change how your home feels before anyone even steps out of the car.

Why It Matters

Your mailbox sits in that in-between space of public and private. It’s technically part of your property, but it shapes how neighbors, buyers, and even delivery drivers see your home. A clean, sturdy, and well-designed mailbox quietly says: this home is cared for.

DIY to Best

• DIY Baseline: Quick Refresh
  Straighten the post, clean off dirt and pollen, and tighten loose screws. A little sanding and spray paint can bring back some life. Replace faded house numbers and add a solar light cap if you want a small touch that looks like you planned it.

• Good: Replace What’s Tired
  If the post or box is rusted or warped, swap it for a standard steel or composite setup. Choose a color that matches your trim or shutters, and add fresh mulch or a small plant at the base. It’s simple, clean, and modern.

• Better: Coordinated Upgrade
  Upgrade to a sturdier decorative post with a larger mailbox and secure latch. Use matching hardware and consider a stone or paver border around the base for a more polished look.

• Best: Southern Statement Piece
  A custom brick or wood mailbox, built-in planter, or decorative ironwork makes your curb stand out. Add small shrubs or flowers around it to tie into your home’s landscaping.

Local Tip

Georgia’s heat and humidity are rough on wood posts. Use pressure-treated lumber, composite, or a concrete sleeve at the base to avoid rot. Gravel at the bottom of the hole can help water drain away and extend the life of your post.

The Takeaway

You don’t have to spend thousands to boost your home’s first impression. Sometimes, the smallest projects — right at the curb — make the biggest difference.

If you want help planning or installing a new mailbox setup, Maker Break Pro can get you from “leaning post” to “Southern charm” in a weekend.

I spent so much time and money trying to unclog my slow-draining sink. I'm not afraid to admit that I was a little ashamed.  I thought, "I'm a Handyman, right?! I should be able to figure this out". 

First I blamed the fact that I cheaped out and bought off-brand drain cleaner (without an -O 😉). Then I tried my trusty zip cleaner in case my wife's hair had gotten down there. Of course, I took apart the stopper because I was sure something horrifying was hanging on to it. 

But after all that, the water still wouldn’t drain right — until I looked under the sink.

The Fix Most People Miss

That little metal rod and spring clip that connect your drain handle to the plug?

Over time, the pivot or linkage can loosen, or the stopper arm can sit too low. The result: the stopper never actually opens fully. Water trickles around it and drains painfully slow. It's not because the pipe is clogged, but because the drain is only partway open.

✅ Quick check:

• Pop open the cabinet and watch the rod while you pull the lift handle.

• If the plug in the sink barely moves, loosen the clip and adjust the rod up a notch.

• Test the flow again — sometimes that’s all it takes.

When It’s Not the Linkage

If your stopper moves freely and the sink still drains slow, the issue might be further down the line. And often it's lack of airflow in the vent pipe.

In older Atlanta and Decatur homes, those roof vents can collect leaves, dust, or even small nests. Without that air escape, water drains sluggishly and gurgles. That’s when you need a professional to inspect or snake the vent line.

The Takeaway

Before you dump another bottle of cleaner, take two minutes to look under the sink. Sometimes it’s a $0 adjustment... and sometimes it’s a sign of a bigger issue.

Either way, don’t feel bad. Even handymen get fooled by a “simple clog.”

If you’d rather skip the trial and error, Maker Break Pro can help troubleshoot slow drains and other small plumbing quirks around the house.