| Over the years I have seen a number of modular | | | | transported. |
| layouts with some being more successful than others. | | | | Use good quality timber, or lightweight strong metal |
| The problem many have; is they are too heavy and | | | | framing for your layout bench work. This should not be |
| awkward to move. Others get easily damaged due to | | | | too heavy, or awkward to move, but needs to be |
| their poor design. Some also experience operational | | | | strong enough to withstand the stresses and strains of |
| problems when they are reassembled. | | | | relocation. |
| It is critical for the design and construction methods to | | | | Give the frame and baseboard surfaces two coats of |
| allow for easy and safe relocation. After all, they need | | | | paint to help protect them from moisture, scratching |
| to travel safely intact from and from a train show, or | | | | and chipping. |
| wherever the layout is being exhibited. | | | | Set a standard for electrical connectivity between |
| Layouts can, and do get damaged in transit, so both | | | | modules. |
| construction and handling needs to be carefully | | | | Set a standard way of aligning tracks across module |
| planned. The operational enjoyment also can be | | | | joins. Use the one method rather than adopting various |
| affected by a poorly constructed modular layout. | | | | ways of keeping tracks aligned across module joins. |
| If you are planning to build a modular layout, here are | | | | Build one module to a particular stage before starting |
| some construction ideas you may find helpful: | | | | the next one. That will involve getting all track laid on a |
| Decide on a set of construction standards for building | | | | module before starting on the next one. |
| each module before starting any construction. Set | | | | And, above all, do not rush the project. Take your time |
| yourself some rules and guidelines. Decide in advance, | | | | and enjoy the experience of building your modular |
| just how you are going to dismantle, move and | | | | layout. |
| reassemble the layout each time it needs to be | | | | |