Dual function packing brackets for tapered architectural columns

A method of supporting a plurality of tapered architectural columns in stacked relation to one another utilizing top and bottom packing brackets each having a ring portion and a substantially rectangular shaped frame portion surrounding the ring portion, the ring portion and surrounding frame portion being joined together by webbing extending therebetween, the ring portions of the top and bottom packing brackets being sized to closely receive respective smaller top and larger bottom ends of the columns, comprising the steps of inserting the ring portions of the top and bottom packing brackets over the respective smaller top and larger bottom ends of the columns, and stacking the columns on top of one another with the respective top and bottom packing brackets in interlocking engagement with each other to prevent both side to side and front to back movement of the packing brackets and associated columns with respect to one another.

A dual function packing bracket for supporting a smaller top end of a tapered architectural column inside a shipping carton during shipment and storage of the column, and after the column has been removed from the carton, for locating the smaller top end of the column in place along a ceiling or roof support structure, the packing bracket comprising a ring portion sized to closely receive the smaller top end of the column, a frame portion surrounding the ring portion sized to closely fit inside the carton, the ring portion and surrounding frame portion being joined together by webbing extending therebetween, and a plurality of circumferentially spaced mounting holes extending through the webbing for receiving fasteners for securing the packing bracket at any desired location along the ceiling or roof support structure.

A method of locating a smaller top end of a tapered architectural column along a ceiling or roof support structure using a packing bracket that is also used to support the smaller top end on the column inside a carton during shipment and storage, the packing bracket including a ring portion sized to closely receive the smaller top end of the column, and a frame portion surrounding the ring portion sized to closely fit inside the carton, the method comprising the steps of attaching the packing bracket at a desired location and orientation to the ceiling or roof support structure, raising the ceiling or roof support structure sufficiently to allow the smaller top end of the column to be inserted into the ring portion at an angle after an ornamental capital has been slid down over the smaller top end of the column, moving a larger bottom end of the column into vertical alignment with the smaller top end, and lowering the ceiling or roof support structure into engagement with the smaller top end of the column.