Return Installation Method
Installing returns in Practical Hoardings involves three key steps: installing an additional stud at the return edge, fixing the skin to the return frame, and installing an offset upright at the junction.
Step 1: Additional Stud
An additional stud must be installed at the return edge of the hoarding run. This stud provides the fixing point for the return skin where it meets the face hoarding. The additional stud is fixed between the top and bottom plates using 2× 65mm chipboard screws per joint.
Step 2: Skin Fixing
The return skin is fixed to the additional stud and the return frame using the standard skin fixing specification:
- 35mm 10G Chipboard Screws at 350mm centres
- Skin edges centred on the stud
- Screws driven flush — not over-driven
Step 3: Offset Upright
An Offset Upright is typically installed at the return junction to provide structural support. If an offset upright cannot be installed (space constraints), corner braces must be used instead — see Corner Brace Detail.
Comparison with Panel Returns
The key difference from Panel Hoarding Returns is that Practical returns are built in-situ — the return is framed and skinned on-site rather than being a pre-fabricated panel. The structural requirements (offset upright or corner braces) are identical.