Reply to "Building my Ceiling Layout (6.11.21 Update)"

Kevin,  I'm thinking that you're most of the way completed with your ceiling layout, but, I normally respond to these posts.

1.)  No.  The noise is not increased at ceiling level.  In fact, most tabletops are louder because there is more table.  Roadbed is virtually a must.

2.)  Switches are not a problem if you have the room.  The track above shows a long spur to the left.  It runs all the way to a small yard in the back of the layout that has one more switch for two more short spurs.  I use the siding often, because it is long enough to hold my long consists and you may want to get trains out of the way for track cleaning.  I have the two main lines connected with switches but, I find they are rarely used with my 100 foot long double-track, holding four DCS engines and 100 cars up there.   I highly recommend you assembling and testing any type of yard before you put it up.

Yes, all wiring runs up the wall in one spot, from my one ZW and TIU.  All wiring is bus and runs completely around the layout, with power drops in the four corners.

You may want to consider backdrops.  Since my overhead is supported by brackets from above, it is necessary to hide them. 

The boards should look good from below.  These are stained, sealed, and sanded three times each.  It's worth the effort.

Lights, signs, and extras can easily be added.

Hope this gives you some ideas...

Best wishes,

Jerry