layout pics, a bit different view...

a lot of construction hours going into the dumpster

sorry

but, it does raise a question about the initial build

do people consider how to initially construct the layout such that it is easier to take down (move or sell)

i have seen some beautiful layouts for sale and when you dig down, you realize that they cannot be moved without a tremendous amount of work in the take down and rebuild (that 100 hours you spent on the construction is not worth much on a resale)

i am part of a modular group, and will try to build my new layout using some of those ideas so that it is easier to handle when the inevitable happens

your thread reminded me of that principle

j

Jerry wrote:

do people consider how to initially construct the layout such that it is easier to take down (move or sell)

I sure didn't in my last house......I thought I would live there forever (and I lived there 17 years, from age 34 to 51).....I thought I would never mover.....Never say never....My pictures are worse! The layout was 14X30.

Here's a few shots while it was still up....It took me almost 4 months to dismantle! What a disaster and a mess!

Peter

Yes.

fair statement, no need to apologize.  no regard to saving anything went into my design. the hours spent constructing are not lost in the dumpster, they were enjoyed and part of the process of constructing a layout, part of the hobby(IMHO). just as demolition of the layout is part of the process. i learned a great deal. this is my 8th layout and i still learn things from the process. so it all is of value to me, even demolition and challenges presented, i am sure i will learn a few things from this demo and apply next time.  but if this post helps people think about construction techniques prior to building and if that is a key point for them, great this post served a purpose.  for me, demolition is pretty easy when you are not trying to save anything.  this layout will be down in a couple days. cycle of a layouts life, once again IMHO.  

     zak98 in the 2nd and 3rd pictures would consider selling the rock faces to me and shipping them to me in the PGH PA. area? Choo Choo Kenny

It is something to think about, but I'm very much looking forward to seeing progress on your new layout.

shoot me an email off list. email address in my profile.  but i would imagine the shipping costs may be a bit high.  

thanks chris. ur layout is one i always enjoy seeing!  wonderful craftsman work you do.  very inspirational and building a layout on your own, one sometimes needs that inspiration or push to keep going.  i am going to start with an engine terminal section.  turntable and transfer table purchased from mill house studioz.  turntable is super.  waiting on transfer table. really thinking about trying the mainne benchwork solution for this 6x by 23' section. 

Yes, it is a big consideration!

At my age it is a problem that I have yet to solve. I have a very nice plan that encompasses everything that I would want in a layout. Yet, how do I design it in a manner in which it can be easily taken down if I have to downsize to another dwelling or when I croak? Right now the only solution seems to be a compromise to something on a much smaller scale than what I really want to achieve.

My last layout was in 4 movable modules.  I moved it twice, but after a move to a smaller home I scrapped it.  My next layout will be the same, so I or someone else if I'm not able, could move it quickly with little repair needed to the house.

That's a sad sight. I suppose the good part is the new layout. Starting over would be both difficult and fun I suppose? It would still be a tough decision to demo and start over. Good luck!

When I built my layout I never considered anything about tearing it down at a future time. I can't worry about that. When I'm gone that will be someone else's problem.

Liked your layout work, Mike. Looking forward to the next one.

As to doing a build that can be easily disassembled, I'm a proponent of sectional construction, not per se for being able to take it down, but for maintenance issues involving major work. A section can be removed and put up on a vertical stand rather than having to lie underneath it or reach over it for several hours. This is in situations where a turnout or track section needs replacing or major service.

thanks matt.  absolutely.  great idea on the sectional pieces for maintenance.  even though my layout room is carpeted it still is a pain to get under the layout and wire, fix, whatever.  one thing i did design in the layout was there was nothing deeper than 36" or i could reach the track from both sides.  so that helped out immensely.

funny you mention it.  it is somewhat therapeutic and fun to demo something.  put ur leather gloves on, safety glasses, work boots and start cutting.  it is a difficult decision to come to, but once the decision is made i want it out and start working on the room to fix any drywall or other issues ASAP.  then start the next one!

ha.. fair enough.  at some point i will be right there with ya! my wife has been well prepared for that if i happen leave this world before her.  

one more small table to go. the remaining two tables are sold and buyer to come and pick them up.  much less damage to the drywalled areas then i expected, so that is a good thing.  

Zak, Are you blowing through it with a saws all?

Making good progress.

Why are you throwing so much away?  That looks like good lumber.  Can't you re-use some of it?

Ron