Envirotex over "Realistic Water"?

Model Railroader General Discussion (Model Railroader)
1

I’m re-doing my wetland and I have a couple of questions about Envirotex. I hope some of you will help me out. Here’s the wetland; it’s roughly 18 X 18 inches:

Here are my questions:

First: I originally did the water with Woodland Scenics Realistic Water. It looked great until it got dusty (is there anything less realistic than dusty water?). When I tried to clean it, I found that the dust had adhered to the surface. Will I have similar issues with Envirotex?

Second: If I pour Envirotex over Realistic Water will that cause problems?

Finally: How deep should I pour Envirotex? The Realistic Water is about 1/8 inch deep.

If you think of any other advice that might help, please post it.

Thanks,

2

I have had my Envirotex down for about three years, when it gets dusty a quick wipe is usually all that is necessary. One time it got a little more than dust on it, a damp cloth took care of it.

I would think that you could pour Envirotex over Relistic Water, but have not done it, so cannot give you a sure answer.

Pour Envirotex in approximately the same depth per pour as the Realistic Water.

One thing I do to help keep it clean is keep a piece of paper handy to cover it over when I am not operating the layout. The ceiling above it is not finished, so it gets a good dose of dirt in a hurry if I don’t.

Good luck,

Richard

3

Shayfan, I have done exactly what you propose to do over a pond on my layout…

First - No! Dries without getting sticky.

Second - Nope!

Finally - 1/8th. inch just like it says on the box of envirotex. Just mix the two parts completely and pour. The bubbles general disappear without any problem. The final finish is nice and glossy.

I didn’t even attempt to clean up the Realistic Water. Just poured over the accumulated dust and grime. It actually looked good and turned out very realistic (no pun intended)!

Have fun!

73

4

Thanks to both of you.

It will be a few weeks or more before I pour the water, but it’s good to have a plan.

You guys are great!

5

If you want to alter the sceniced look or add any varying look to the water clarity or depth, this would be the time to touch up the surface w/ drybrushing or washes before pouring the Enviortex. A few have tinted the Enviortex as well.

6

Before you pour envirotex you might try Pledge wood floor FINISH with FUTURE. It is clear and has a clean scent.

Some on the forum have used this as their water but I haven’t tried it.

If you do let us know how it works.

Bob

7

I’ve had the same issues w/ Realistic Water, Can remain somewhat too soft and can actually deform the water surface. Objects placed on the surface can also cause dents/ deforming. Recoating may be the best option. It couln’t hurt to try though.