I am FINALLY getting around to building the second section of my benchwork so I may begin my empire. So many things have happened there just cannot be anything else to hold up proceedings! Heres the lay of the land before the question. The first section currently standing is 42" off the floor to the top of the joists. At this level will be hidden staging. The visible level of the layout will be another 4 1/2 to 5 inches above the current 42". Now, the section I am about to erect is a 9 odd feet long by 22" wide peninsula that will be my yard area. This will connect to the visible part of the layout. So here is my question..... Do I make this section of benchwork the same 42" to the joist tops to keep the entire benchwork at the same level, or do you suggest that it be an additional 4 1/2 - 5" off the floor to the joists to match the visible only portion? I have already sorta figured out how to tie it all together either way but was looking for some feedback on either height before building the leg assemblies. Oh, the benchwork is all L-girder construction. Thanks in advance Cheers
I personnally like to keep the distance from the top of the benchwork to the bottom of the sub-roadbed to a minimum. The top of the benchwork being the top of any joists across the L-girders. On my personal layout I have about 5 different benchwork heights ranging from 36" to 52". It really comes down to what you are comfortable with and what you think will aid you in your construction. David
I know a little about your track plan , and if it were me I would make the section under the yard higher than the other benchwork. I agree with the above statement, not to make risers any taller than they need to be. That will make it easier to move some day if you have to and it will give you more room under it for storage or what ever.
Thanks Guys - I'll get the legs started with the extra length. The extra height will certainly help when it is moved into it's "final" area and cabinets are built underneath. And Coaltrain, you certainly do have an intimate knowledge of the plan!
