Layout guide

[Anonymous]

Hi all. I am new to this pass-time and would like to know if there is anywhere one can go on the internet to get some idea for layout ideas.

Many thanks in advance.

SteveMS

[IRONROOSTER]

Welcome to the hobby.

This site http://www.nmra.org/beginner/ has some good information, plus a starting layout. Also, check Model Railroaders site above and go to Layout Planning and ABC's of model railroading.

A good book is Track Planning for Realistic Operation by John Armstrong. It explains how real railroads work and how to adapt it to model railroads. Also, has several good track plans.
Enjoy
Paul

[Anonymous]

What size area do you have for a layout?

[Anonymous]

I'm not sure what homosoate is and can't find it at Home Depot or Lowes. I decided to put 2 inch rigid foam insulation on my 4 by 8 plywood, so that I would be able to carve out the foam base to make rivers and a small harbor. Is this foam the wrong base to build my layout upon?

[Anonymous]

IRONROOSTER & rsn48, thankyou for your replies. rsn48, I have 2 sheets of 1/2' ply 8' x 4' and 1 piece 2' x 4'.

Don't worry, I will still have some more questions at a later date. I'm here to learn!.

SteveMS

[Anonymous]

Forgot to mention scale: HO

SteveMS

[leighant]

If the foam is rigid enough, and framed properly, might be used WITHOUT plywood under it.

[Anonymous]

Leighant, you talk about foam. Are we talking polystyrene? I here that polystyrene gives off fumes and is not safe for enclosed areas. true or false?

Steve.

[Anonymous]

Steve,

The foam should make a good base for your railroad. If the foam is either pink or blue, then there there is no problem with fumes UNLESS you are cutting it with a hot wire cutter. My double-decked HO railroad uses foam as a base. I love the stuff. It is lightweight and not affected by humidity like plywood and dimensional lumber is. You can see some pictures of my use of foam at my photo page listed below.

http://photos.yahoo.com/KPKOREN

Look in the 'Model Railroad Construction' folder.