Add A Swimming Pool To Your Layout
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Using Foam Board as Layout Base
Most layouts have a plywood or homasote base attached to a stable wooden frame called bench work. For one of my fixed layouts I covered the plywood with 1″ foam insulation board made by Dow Corning and available at Home Depot. The foam comes in 4′ x 8′ x 1 inch thick sheets, is very light weight, and pink. But, it can be painted, cut, carved, sanded and glued as desired. This makes it convenient to attach trees and street signs, and to make rivers, lakes and even backyard pools without having to drill into or cut the plywood.
The foam can also be used as the sole base for a portable layout. In that case, you would need to have folding tables or similar support available for the foam to rest upon. The primary advantage is the light weight of the foam makes it extremely easy to lift and carry. The foam can also be used to create elevations and tiered loops of track, and to make mountains and tunnels and rock formations. Future posts will include more tips on the versatility of foam board on your layout.
Click on “Videos” menu button, above, to see the Carnival Portable Layout built with foam insulation board. Other examples are on the “Photos” page.
The Dow Corning “Foamular” insulation board also comes in 4′ x 8′ x 2 inches thick sheets. This 2 inch thick foamboard is more rigid than the 1 inch thick foamboard, but is still relatively light weight. If you are creating a portable layout that you will take to train shows or other events several times per year, then I recommend the 2 inch thick foamboard. It is also a better choice than the 1 inch thick foamboard if you are installing the Lionel Fastrack system to the foamboard because the track pin connections are less likely to be disturbed when handling the foamboard.
To experience a portable layout on foam insulation board, visit the Exhibit Room of the Porterville Historical Museum at 257 N. “D” Street, Porterville, CA 93257 during its Annual Holiday Model Train Show beginning the day after Thanksgiving. For all dates and times, please go to their website: http://www.portervillemuseum.com, or visit the museum on Facebook..
American Flyer Guy 