benchwork plan

[nik_n_dad]

Thanks for all the ideas on how best to use the space in either of two rooms "mom" is letting us have for the new n-scale layout. We decided to use the slightly smaller basement room, vs the odd-shaped upstairs room.

Here's the benchwork plan we've mostly settled on. We "roughed it in" the room with foam and it aisles and depth seem mostly workable. The upper corners will be a little bit of a reach, but since those are where curves will be, it may not be too bad.

We're still debating on layout height. Nik, being pretty short, would like to keep it somewhere around 36". I'm thinking that by the time we actually finish the layout he'll be (much) taller and 40" might be ok.

Anyway, thanks again for the ideas and tips. We'll (hopefully) be finished with a track plan and will post that later this week for critique.

[willpick]

Good choice of basement for the trains. regarding the layout height, i'd go with the 40" or even 42". To reach the corners if needed, buy or build a stepstool. this will allow you to reach the corners, and Nik can use it to stand on till he grows up--. Also, the higher benchwork will be more comfortable to get under for those times when working under the table is necessary. I set my layout at 48" so I could use it for storage and ease of use when it was time to be under the table.

Looking forward to seeing your track plan

[Johnnny_reb]

The only thing I would change is the one long bench 102 x 24. I would make it two benches 51 x 24 instead. This would give you the same bench but make it easier to transport.

[nik_n_dad]

oh totally agree- otherwise I may be stuck trying to get it into the basement too.

We're decided to go with Sievers after talking (or trying to talk) to a few benchwork makers. For the image here I just detailed the overall room & table size. The modules will end up being something totally different.

Appreciate all of your help and support Johnny Reb

[rlandry6]

My N Scale laout is about the same size and shape. I used domino sections made of 1X4, cross-braced and covered with 1/8" plywood. The dominos are screwed to the wall studs and supported underneath with diagonal braces. The domios are screwed together at the ends as well as being attached to the wall.

[ChrisNH]

I would recommend you consider keeping the width of the two 30" wide sections to 24" from the wall to ease reach in..

Chris