Base for Structures

[Anonymous]

I've just recently got started in model railroading and am currently building some of my structures (HO scale). What I'd like to know is whether it is better to build a structure on a base prior to placing it on the benchwork itself, and if so, what would be the best material to use as a base? Thanks

[Anonymous]

There is no rule thst has to be followed here...
If it's a trackside structure, then yyou need to make allowances for clearence, & rail height.
I test fit everything before, during, & after construction.
Any material can be used, plywood, masonite, cardboard, foamcore, styrene, styrofoam...a lot depends on the desired height, & what type of benchwork you have...i.e. open grid, tabletop, etc...
Whole sections of structures, like towns, etc...can be built at the workbench on a single piece of material, & then attached to the benchwork. This technique has advantages, in that it makes detail work much esier than having to bend over the layout.
Hope this helps.

[dknelson]

sometimes no base at all is needed -- but it does help to put some ground foam or dirt around the bottom edge so the building does not look toy-like.

If you think a base is needed (and some plastic buildings are quite flimsy) I'd advise a base that can move with the building rather than attach the building to the layout -- you are likely to want to reuse that building after changing the layout.