I’ve searched some older threads on fascia but can’t seem to find a good direction on when to install same. i.e. - install and contour the fascia then build up my scenery w/foam behind it -OR- build all the scenery and then contour and install the fascia last? Layout is around the wall, L-girder w/roadbed on risers throughout. Any insight on the best way to go?
I installed the fascia towards the end of the scenery phase. The reason I waited was because on layouts in the past I had inevitably spilled paint, plaster, white glue, etc. on it.
Once it was installed, I then built the scenery out to it. It some places that consisted of Hydrocal or Sculptamould over plywood. In others, plaster cloth. I then went along the top edge with a saber saw to conform it to the surrounding terrain.
John Timm
Funny you shoudl ask this. I’m just about to start my fascia and I’m going to put it up as scenery support for an elevation I’m buildng. I’m going to use 1/4 Foam core board. It’s stiff enough to hold the light scenery and it’s paintable and easy to cut. I’ll post some pics when I get enough going.
You don’t wanna be too quick to install the facia if you still have wiring to do, or if you will be having to lean over to continue much work in the background are a few things to keep in mind. The facia itself can lend structural support for any senicking in the foreground, so installing it before adding scenery base is your best bet. I’m not sure what a foam core board is, most use masonite. I hope it’s not something that will get all nicked up in due time as you come into contact with it. Here’s a pic of some initial installation ealier last year on my layout, so I hope this will give some insight for what you’re looking for…
This area needs a little more work before I install the masonite facia. I like to install after the wiring,track and basic scenery contours are in.I clamp a slightly oversize 8ft. piece to the supports then trace the scenery contours and cut it with a
saber saw.
What if your controls for switches ans such are in the facial? Does anyone have pic of this and when do you do yours?
thanks
ray
That would depend on what you’re refering to as “controls”. If you’re talking electrical switches, I would wait till majority of wiring is done, then mount facia and drill holes for your wires, or switches, to go thru. If you’re talking about mechanical controls, you would need to mount the facia sooner in the construction to be able to better align the linkages.
Here ya go !..
As for other controls, You’ll just have to figure what you want & then how to apply. For my toggles, I did my two control panels differently, 1st one I attached the facia after I had drilled the holes for the toggles & then inserted pre wired toggles & for the 2nd panel, I inserted toggles AND hooked wire leads up before installing the facia… how nothing came apart after bending the facia still amazes me…lol.
NEAT!
Chip, do you have a Web source for more info on those manual throws? I’ve seen them advertised in MR before, but don’t recall a web site mentioned in the ad.