garage loft track plan

[odyssey]

I have a 12 foot wide by 28 foot long available loft space for a track plan. The perimeter walls are 5 feet high and the centre peak is 7 feet high

I expect to run the layout at floor level around the perimeter  - 2 to 3 tracks width maximum - so that seating can be done in the centre area where the standing height allows one to access the loft by staircase, be comfortable to move around , etc..

A floor level layout would be desirable as I have photos , models, etc that I would like to display oin the walls themselves, whereas if the layout was elevated ( benchwork ) I would lose that opportunity

[ttrigg]

I've read this twice through my trifocaled eyes and do not see a question. I do have a comment. You plan on using the hip-walls as a display area. Even with the track on the floor you will be losing at least the bottom 20 inches as displayable area. The trains, buildings and any terrain relief you build will consume more vertical area than one would think. Have another look into benchworking the layout. 2 very significant advantages, 1) terrain relief (mountains, rivers, and valleys spanned by bridging are most appealing. 2) the front face of the benchwork can be designed to display various treasures.

[vsmith]

I agree with Tom, even a slightly raised platform even just a foot can be a serious benifit. It gives you somewhere to run wiring for track and turnout power, you can also set a foam base if you plan to include scenery. The foam also cuts sound down ...alot.

[cacole]

Another, or perhaps the biggest advantage, to getting it off the floor is, being able to reach your trains without having to get down on your knees.

I don't have much problem getting down, it's getting back up that's hard to do.

[dwbeckett]

I agree with up off the floor. raising your RR now will have it's benefits later as stated wiring , bridge's , storage of trains not in use. The list go's on & on. Have  fun

Dave

 

[odyssey]

I accept all 4 replies as  the best way to approach my dilemma - I will elevate the layout , box in the recessed display areas (  between the 2x6 wall studs ) after insulating them, and have the track at eye level when sitting in the various chairs and sofas in the loft, and display my pictures , etc at the front of the benchwork, and include storage underneath

[dwbeckett]

So how's the loft layout coming along?

Dave

[odyssey]

I posted this before leaving for my Calif. winter holiday , so it is on hold until my return in April

was hoping to see a reply from near Palm Spgs so I could see a layout while here