Nice sound effects going along with the progress.

Yes, it is Sievers benchwork. Goes together very easily and is very solid.

The benchwork around the main oval is 24 inches wide. The two penninsulas are 18 inches wide.

Well, the extruded polystyrene can be purchased at Lowe's or Home Depot. The ballast, and other scenery materials, can be found online and at hobby stores that have model trains.

@55trains The legs are 48-inches since I have to go under the layout twice to get to the washer and dryer. Plus, the higher layout surface gives a more realistic view as I'm closer to ground level with the trains. As for my using 2 layers of foam, the track is all on the same level surface, but at the west end of the yard is going to be an underpass, which will require cutting into the "ground" for that.

The foam is not for deadening sound. It's the scenery base. It's lightweight for when I move and need to take apart the layout sections.

Thanks! Figured the sound of a train starting up would be good for showing the start of the layout.

@Stan92057 Actually, I started building the layout in 2003, and I haven't had any problems with moisture. As far as taking care of the walls goes, I can't. Same with the ceiling. Only improvements that I could do was add more lighting and lay the carpet on the floor. The reason for this is that I rent my townhouse and don't own it.

According to the Sievers Benchwork website, it's pine.

Yes, it is.

how wide are the sets of boards. how far from the wall do they go out.

Thanks!

Wow! Excellent!! Gives me some great ideas!

Hmm, are you using that ready made ballast stuff on a roll?

Radius on the mainline is 34 and 32 inches. Could have made it wider, but then there would be less room for scenery on one side of the tracks.