Why Important
With a heritage building, first impressions matter. Even small signs of inappropriate style or material stands out, and can suggest that unsympathetic changes have made which can devalue the whole property.
What to look for
If the building was built before 1840, then any letter box would be a retrospective addition. Therefore check if installing a Letter Plate is suitable for the external door.
An external box for letters may be more appropriate to retain the period appearance for Georgian properties.
The earliest were of plain cast brass, without any decoration, often fitted vertically on the centre line of the door.
There was also a narrow roll-edged type. Early examples usually have a small opening which is unsuitable for modern mail.
The configuration of the door should dictate the size and location of the letter plate.
When to look
When the initial detailed survey is undertaken. Collect photographs of the existing situation.
Undertake annual inspections or when the building has a change of use/occupancy.
How to fix
Letter plates can be fixed horizontally on the centre line of the lock rail of a single door.
Where there is a single door with central beaded muntin, or a pair of doors, the letter plate should be fixed in the centre half of the lock rail opposite to that of the doorknob.
Avoiding creating problems
If the original door does not have a ‘letter box’ do not add one, but rather use a separate post box. Changing the appearance of a heritage building front door is likely to need Listed Building Consent.
Historical background
Letter plates would probably not have been fitted until the introduction of the penny post in 1840.
Builders & Architect Catalogues were often used to select finishes and styles for the original building. The Wirral Archives may be good places to research what was available at the time.