Some of the larger layouts involved two or three different
clubs combining their modules to form one massive layout.
All together, I counted over 640 individual modules on display
at this show!
This got me thinking about the convention and how we build
layouts in the hobby. It seems to me sectional/modular layout
construction has gained a solid foothold.
Many of us do not have space, nor will we ever have the
space to build the layout of our dreams. Those who do have
lots of space often become overwhelmed with scope of such
a project.
Sectional layout construction need not be limited to portable
layouts. You can use the same approach on a home layout.
Publisher Joe Fugate talks a lot about the value of sectional
layout construction, and it makes sense.
By building your home layout in sections, you create the
flexibility to remove a section and take it to the workbench
to repair it or to flip it over to do things like mount switch
machines. No need to crawl under the layout, which becomes
more difficult the older we get.
You also have the ability to do most of the messy work out-
side the layout room, helping to keep the layout room neat
and clean. Think about the advantage of having your neces-
sary tools and supplies located on the workbench instead of
being scattered around the layout.
Two of the displays in the contest room (also called the “cel-
ebration room” for those less into competition) featured
sectional portions of an individual’s home layout. These sec-
tions included labels showing where they connected into the
layout, so no confusion when the section made its way back
home. The only limitation you need to keep in mind is that
the section must fit through the smallest door, or around the
tightest corner you have.
Assistant Editors editorial - 3
MRH-Aug 2014
