This is N gauge on a shelf. It was meant to be a shelf but it kinda grew a bit. I'm going to try and show each stage of the build. Introduce my locos and any products I may use in the build. Plus running sessions.
Do your research before you buy because sometimes it cheaper at a DIY place other times it's cheaper at a builders merchant other times cheaper at a specialist supplier.
@ngaugeonashelf4417Күн бұрын
I do a lot of looking around before I get anything. Time equals saved money. Thanks
@FredWilbury3 күн бұрын
Well I admire your tenacity for modelling in a loft .
@ngaugeonashelf4417Күн бұрын
I think I've got a good enough space now. Certainly not good enough before I got it insulated and clean. Cheers
@iansngauge4 күн бұрын
Hi Simon! It's great to see the window in place! Will make a huge difference to both light levels, and through drafts on hot days! Are you not going to post any videos of you dismantling the layout? That could be interesting! It's true what you say about part of the fun being in the building! I keep tropical fish, and in that hobby we have a thing called Multiple Tank Syndrome (MTS)! I had eleven aquariums set up at one point, although I've currently only got seven, and am trying to cut back further! I had eleven aquariums because I like the process of creating a habitat for different types of tropical fish, as much as watching them! I think model railways have a similar draw! Personally I really enjoy constructing the layout, especially as there are a huge mix of different skills required to perform the construction! One day I'll find out if I actually enjoy operating the trains! Lol! I look forward to your return! All the best, Ian.
@ngaugeonashelf44174 күн бұрын
Hello Ian, too late to make videos of me taking it down as it's down. As it happens I did make 2 videos after this one. But until I start building there is nothing to show really. I tried keeping fish but had a lot of bad luck with them. Had a koi pond for 10 years but that became too much trouble in the end. Sold up and filled in. Building is going to be very slow, I want to get it all correct this time. No more mistakes. Cheers, Simon
@McMonkeyful4 күн бұрын
I clicked on video thinking it was for loft storage. I'm not into Model Trains myself but it looks like an interesting hobby. I just thought I'd comment as I'm a woodworker who has recently been putting in very similar shelves to store my hardwoods somewhere dry. You mentioned the person who buys the house having to deal with the tops. I think most people would find them very useful for storing stuff in an organized manner, so it may well be seen as a selling point. Better than stacking you Xmas tree & old photo albums all over the floor! Curious how much you paid for the Velux window. I'd like to put one in to make it more pleasnt to go up into the loft to organize my stock.
@McMonkeyful4 күн бұрын
By the way, that's an amazing diorama you've created. Very impressed! You're right about the journey being as important as the destination.
@ngaugeonashelf44174 күн бұрын
@@McMonkeyful Hello, and thankyou for dropping in. First thing I did was throw out the junk that had been sat there for 25 years doing nothing. It took a couple of trips to the tip. Woodworking? Now I don't have any skills in that direction, it skipped me and went to my youngest son. I paid £1000 for the window to be fitted. It's 56cm x 78 cm and didn't require any timbers to be cut. I don't think it's a real velux, probably came from screwfix. In screwfix the window is roughly £350 and the fitting kit with flashing is roughly £190. Ten you have the roof tile cutting to do to make the rain run off properly. I probably paid the very top of the price but I did have 2 workmen on site for 5 hours. Hope that helps. Simon
@McMonkeyful4 күн бұрын
@@ngaugeonashelf4417 Thanks Simon. That seems like a reasonable price when you're going to be up there a lot. I probably don't spend enough time grabbing stock to justify that sort of outlay. Boarding the loft out was a grotty job, with little airflow. I probably would have paid the grand back when I did that to make the week I was slaving away more bearable. I agree about chucking out the junk. I've spent ten years throwing stuff up there that I don't know what to do with. Gradually sorting through it & charity shop/tipping the stuff I don't envision using. I really was impressed with your diorama (if that's the correct term) and will keep an eye out for your future videos (subscribed) to see how the loft version turns out :)
@ngaugeonashelf44174 күн бұрын
@@McMonkeyful I think the best part for me was making it a clean space. Just pinning something to the underside of the rafters would do that if I wasn't using it as a room. It's still going to be warm up there but I'm hoping it will be warm in winter too. If the insulation takes the 2 extreme ends of temperture off I will be grateful. Looking forward to getting the layout started. It's a long project though. Thanks for watching.
@thegrowler-blackwoodngauge5 күн бұрын
Always nice to watch a New layout evolve. Wonder who the person was who took a saw to his layout to extend it.....😅 I've subbed to watch the build progress. Cheers Euan
@ngaugeonashelf44175 күн бұрын
Thankyou Euan, going to be slow progress until winter. Plus I want to spend more time making it right without mistakes. The Gent who I have been following is called K, S & LD. He built it, then extended it and then scrapped it. He doesn't have many videos so it's worth starting from the beginning. He is a good modeller and I have been inspired by things he has done and he has helped me with a question or 2. Thanks.
@petepaine53315 күн бұрын
Hi Simon. Thats great. You can use it as an escape hatch should you get in trouble ! Pete
@ngaugeonashelf44175 күн бұрын
I don't think I can get my belly through it Pete.
@ngaugefouroaksstreetstatio69325 күн бұрын
Very good Simon, i think the current layout has a bit of everything requiring all the modelling disciplines so the next one I'm sure will be even better.
@ngaugeonashelf44175 күн бұрын
The plan is to do it very slowly and plan each section so I don't forget signals, lineside huts and where I want houses and roads. I think I did the previous one in too much of a rush.
@ngaugefouroaksstreetstatio69324 күн бұрын
@@ngaugeonashelf4417 it's not a race
@ngaugeonashelf44174 күн бұрын
@@ngaugefouroaksstreetstatio6932 No. I justg rushed a bit last time.
@nevillehubbard73475 күн бұрын
And a very nice hole in the roof it has become!!! That's ideal! I know what you're going to be up to all winter!!! Lovely to see the trains run one last time, but bigger and better awaits in the autumn. Enjoy your project!
@ngaugeonashelf44175 күн бұрын
It's made a difference. Don't have to put the light on most of the time. Should pay for itself in 50 years or so.....
@ParkinsonsWalks5 күн бұрын
Hi Simon, I referred to your window as a dormer window in my vlog not a velox - close. Nice to have a last look at the old layout. Enjoy your Hols. Ron
@ngaugeonashelf44175 күн бұрын
Hello Ron, not so sure of the brand name of the window. The guy probably sourced it from screwfix. It lets the light in, the hot air out and after that serious rain we had a little while back is water tight. Can't complain then. We have only had 2 days rain so far, another day of it tomorrow. That's not bad for me, usually worse! Simon
@billybobbassman5 күн бұрын
Looking forward to when you are ready to start the next phase 👍
@ngaugeonashelf44175 күн бұрын
Hi Billy, next job is to buy some 12mm soft board to use as my base. I've put in some temporary inclines to see what is possible and where I want it to go. The real inclines will be woodland scenics as they just have to be correct this time. Cheers
@BrianSanders-tn7pi5 күн бұрын
Hi Simon. That roof window makes such a difference with the light, I can actually see you now. I remember when you first showed us your loft it was so dark that I could barely see you. You will still find things that you can do ,like salvaging your trees and buildings from the old layout. One thing that I would suggest for you is to buy some large diameter pipe lagging , you know the grey foam stuff. I can absolutely guarantee that you will bang your head on those roof trusses. Welcome to my world.Get some zip ties to secure them. You will be zooming around up there and it is enevitable that you will bang your head or some other body part. Just a bit of advice from a very clumsy git. Take care my friend , see you again soon. Regards.
@ngaugeonashelf44175 күн бұрын
Brian, I think the best bit is it's clean. When I tried 22 uears ago it was awful up there. Of course you learn as you go. I have some fersh dents in my head from fitting the fronts and backs of the board. I shall wear a helmet when I'm wiring. Hopefully I will not have to go under there too damn often!
@BrianSanders-tn7pi5 күн бұрын
@@ngaugeonashelf4417 Hi Simon. As the saying goes 'famous last words'. You know as well as I do you,ll be under there fiddling around with something. You have an enviroment that is crawling with accidents. As I said before I am a clumsy git. The last time I banged my head was because I took on a forklift , it won. Just be careful bud.
@ngaugeonashelf44175 күн бұрын
@@BrianSanders-tn7pi Brian, just don't talk me into putting a foot wrong and going down the hole! I do have a solid 18mm cover for it made out of chip board. Just in case!
@BrianSanders-tn7pi5 күн бұрын
@@ngaugeonashelf4417 Hi Simon. That sounds like a good idea. Maybe put a tape barrier across in front of it just to be on the safe side. I worked in an industry that is full of accidents and I got my fair share so I am accutely aware of potential accidents . It doesn,t always stop me from having them though. Be careful up there my friend and enjoy your railway. Take care.
@ngaugeonashelf44174 күн бұрын
@@BrianSanders-tn7pi Brian, I used to climb cellphone towers for a living. I was a planner rather than a fitter. The highest I went up was the BBC Redruth mast but only to 75m. About half way. We only had 1 fatality that I know of. A contractor painter who wasn't looking after himself properly. First thing I did was to put some chipboard together to cover the hole anytime I was working near it. I don't like stepping over it, especially as I'm wearing my reading glasses much of the time and the floor isn't always where I thing it is!
@TwoRailfans5 күн бұрын
That window is going to make a huge difference! Best of luck taking down the old layout. I hope you are able to save most of it!
@ngaugeonashelf44175 күн бұрын
It's all down now and boxed up. Lost a lot of track but that happens when it's ballasted. The flexi track chairs are very small and not very robust. Such is life. Fortunately it's not expensive.
@DICEGEORGE6 күн бұрын
ui bought a foam cutting saw from B&Q, for about a tenner - cant find it though! I use firefoam for everything including sticking kingspan maybe one velux and at the otheer end a non see through openable / closable vent
@ngaugeonashelf44175 күн бұрын
I used a saw from B&Q too. I needed a long saw anyway and as you say, got it for a tenner. It made life very easy. The 20mm overlay I used a sharp knife, didn't need anything more serious than that. I got a velux in the end, just a narrow one so no timbers had to be cut. Not sure if it is a 'velux' , probably a cheaper brand.
@MyMustang7211 күн бұрын
is it possible to put a powercar at both ends of a 5 coach unit and run it?
@ngaugeonashelf441711 күн бұрын
I have no idea. Would polarity be an issue? With each unit facing a different way they will want to drive off in different directions. Plus the power connection for the lights through the coupling. Let's say yes it is with some wiring adjustments. All depends if you want to get the soldering iron out. I'd say not worth it. The main car pulls strongly enough. That's all I can think of, I'm no expert. In fact I'm a million miles from being an expert. Thanks for the query.
@iansngauge11 күн бұрын
Hi Simon! I'm really enjoying this series showing us how you're going about building a loft layout! I would definitely think about making some of the scenery removable - especially the tunnels!!! It's not only a good idea for access, but it'll also allow you to work on it away from the loft, on those really hot / cold days! Anyway, looks like you're going to have some nice long runs, and plenty of room for a fiddle yard to store the bulk of your stock! Speaking of stock, I'm looking forward to seeing some of it that you haven't sold on! All the best, Ian.
@ngaugeonashelf441711 күн бұрын
Hello Ian, like yourself I'm trying to show every step. Might prove useful to someone. Not sure about removable scenery. I wouldn't know how to go about it. I think my design will not require it but we shall see. Not going to show the stock until I've got some track down. mid october maybe. Cheers
@ParkinsonsWalks11 күн бұрын
This is exciting Simon, following the build. Nice natural commentary explaining the issues and solutions you choose. Thanks for letting us in to watch the developments. Ron
@ngaugeonashelf441711 күн бұрын
Hello Ron, I remember on the last build I skipped so much that might just be useful to someone. I'm trying to show every step this time. Simon
@BrianSanders-tn7pi11 күн бұрын
Hi Simon. Well your cracking on. Those boards look sturdy. One suggestion I may offer you is to think about having lift off scenary above you tunnels. It will make access even easier for cleaning. Your backscene issue. Maybe before you commit to putting a whole sheet on try cutting two one foot pieces and stick them with the glues of your choice , give them a couple of days and see if they wrinkle. Anything that uses water will wrinkle them. Maybe try a varnish as a glue. Smear it on thin and roll the sheet on when it is tacky. Use a wallpaper roller to ensure an even finish. I didn,t think that you were going to have any inclines. Maybe use the dropped section as a place for an embankment and bridge combo. Or maybe create a storage yard under the layout top and cover it with scenary , extra storage is always useful. The great thing about the stage you are at right now is that you can put these ideas in place before you go to far. Anyway well done so far. I look forward to seeing your rolling stock. Good luck buddy.
@ngaugeonashelf441711 күн бұрын
Hello Brian, I have been to Cheltenham Model Centre and asked them about back scenes. I have a solution. Lift off above tunnels? Possible. I'm only having 1 tunnel to provide access to and I can create good access to it. I've planned ahead this time. I've got to have an incline because of the way the loft ladder swings when you put it away. I've got to get up and over that. You will have to wait and see. I'll get the stock out when I've got something to run it on. Late October perhaps. Cheers
@Wickford_N_Gauge12 күн бұрын
Greetings Simon 👋 what a little palace you've created 🤩 hard to believe what you've achieved in such a short time 😇 Looking forward to catching up with your window 🪟 and neighbour watch 🤭 Very best wishes from the Emerald Isle ☘️
@ngaugeonashelf441712 күн бұрын
Hello Paul, it's coming along nicely. Might be laying track in October. I'm already formulating a christmas list of static grass and other bits. If the weather was half way decent I'd be playing golf and making my golf videos. As it is the rain is giving me ample time to work in the loft. I've not been watching the nighbours, if you saw them you would see why. <shudder>
@nevillehubbard734712 күн бұрын
You do realise that some of us only understood one word in three! I always thought that you could bash nails into wood, not screws!!!! I know, I'm a sad case!!!! But, we have an electrician who's going to install proper lighting in the garage on Friday!!!! Hooray! Apart from that, I really have no idea what the 90° brackets are going to do!!!! Yes, i know, a sad case, but I have other talents, but it's so long since ive used them, I can't remember what they are!!! It'll be an interesting project to stop you getting bored (or should that be "board"!!) over the winter!
@ngaugeonashelf441712 күн бұрын
Nails? You heathen! No. Thye just don't grip like a screw. If you have squeeky floorboards that the nails. 90 degree brackets are a means of making a 90 degree joint without all of the tedious chiseling and sawing and enevitable throwing of botched timber in the fire. And you can move them if you want to. Very useful for someone who has no talent. You are employing a sparky? That's bold. I hope you have taken out a loan! I think over winter I will be editing youtube videos. Seriously I hope to be laying track in October when I'm not o nthe range bashing balls. Cheers
@nevillehubbard734712 күн бұрын
@@ngaugeonashelf4417 yes, heathen indeed!!!! I really have no idea regarding anything DIY! And as far as electricity is concerned, that stuff kills people!!! I'm looking forward to watching the railway develop and marvelling at your skills (between golf sessions!).
@ngaugeonashelf441711 күн бұрын
@@nevillehubbard7347 I've had a few shocks, not got me yet. If I had any skill I wouldn't of needed to rebuild it!
@davidberlanny330812 күн бұрын
Hi Simon, well done, great progress. You can really start to appreciate the size now. Think in real life you now have the window installed, I'm sure we'll see in due course. All the best!!
@ngaugeonashelf441712 күн бұрын
Hello David, we are getting some Spanish weather for one day next week. At the moment it's morel ike autumn over here. 20 feet down each side is quite long. Although one end is reserved for sidings so I don't have to keep putting trains away in a drawer. Window is in and all boards complete. Next month I will be getting some 12mm soft baord to go on the tops. It's an easier surface to work on that direct onto the timber. Take care. Simon
@TheHeritageLine12 күн бұрын
Hi Simon, really enjoying watching your journey with the new layout. You still have plenty to share at this point, I like the idea of showing the current loco fleet, also sharing the track plan may be advantageous as others may be able to give advice or ideas that you hadn't thought of. I also noticed a comment about the wood moving due to the climate in the attic, I think the wood would only move if you had any moisture or condensation, I'm no expert and I'm sure many other modellers who have attic layouts could shed more light, but you could always seal the wood with some paint or even a coat of thinned down pva if you think you may have an issue. Keep up the good work! All the best Tony.
@ngaugeonashelf441712 күн бұрын
Hello Tony, I like making the videos and it encourages me to move on with it rather than get caught up with something else for a few weeks. Plus when I made the bedroom one I skipped a lot of steps. I don't want to do that this time. I'll show the fleet when I have some track down as it has changed a lot. I bought stuff off ebay, got it running and then sold at a small profit. £10 here and £20 there in order to fund job lots of bits and new locos. I don't think the timber will move. It's screwed to load bearing timber and if that moves it's because the entire roof has blown off. 12mm soft board will go over the top. I've watched a lot of attic videos and they are all different. Some have used no insulation whatsoever and that is what I had 22 years ago and it failed. Was also filthy too. The condensation was a real problem in winter. Hopefully now it will be fine. I guess I'll find out in a few months. Cheers Simon
@billybobbassman12 күн бұрын
Good to watch your progress. A loco / rolling stock collection video would be pretty interesting, but either way I shall be looking forward to your next instalment 👍
@ngaugeonashelf441712 күн бұрын
Once I've got some track down in a couple of months I'll show what I have left as some of the early stuff has been sold. Cheers
@ngaugefouroaksstreetstatio693212 күн бұрын
Getting there Simon, is the board tolerant of temperature changes? I remember what happened with Everard junction but i think that was chip board.
@ngaugeonashelf441712 күн бұрын
No idea is the simple answer. Chip board doesn't like getting wet, it absorbs and expands if soaked for a long time. Not sure about the PIR board. I'll be putting 12mm soft board over the top as I will not be using 5mm cork under the track. That was a pain, trying to get a track pin into the wood underneath and the track wandering about as I fought with it. Soft board it goes straight in no bother. Should make my run smoother anyway. Cheers.
@petepaine533112 күн бұрын
Well done Simon ,its all looking good. Cant wait to see the layout develop Pete
@ngaugeonashelf441712 күн бұрын
The boards are complete. Next month I've got to buy 12mm soft board, I'm not using 5mm cork under the track this time as it's not deep enough and I just bent a ton of pins. Then build the fiddle yard. I could be running by November. Cheers Pete.
@supstersmodelrailways320212 күн бұрын
I used 6mm mdf for my back scenes. That backing with the pre glue still bubbled. Lord knows how. It was a smooth as a ducks bottom when fitted. I think it may actually need a backing paper first. But too late for me. lol.
@ngaugeonashelf441712 күн бұрын
Right. There is a video coming up. I went to Cheltenham model centre and asked. They said you have to seal the timber with pva first and don't use mdf as it sucks the glue off the paper and absorbs it more than ply. I was told to stick with 5mm ply even though it's surface is not smooth like mdf. MDF is really dry and soaks it up off the paper. I guess we both could of used that before we started.
@TwoRailfans12 күн бұрын
It's looking good. I almost built our inclines but ended up using the Woodland Scenics inclines made out of foam. No measuring required and easy to install, but obviously more expensive than doing it yourself.
@ngaugeonashelf441712 күн бұрын
It's complete now and last night I sat up there and made some plans. I'm with you, after weighing all the pros and cons I have decided to use the Woodland Scenics inclines. It will be so simple and will be correct. I really don't want to repeat the mistakes I made in the bedroom. Plus you can bend it into curves quite easily. That's another thing, I don't want any straight lines up here. Thanks for watching.
@stevenparsons407613 күн бұрын
I understand they have traction tyres did you replace those ? Thoriyghly enjoyed the video😊
@ngaugeonashelf441713 күн бұрын
I did indeed and it ran very well. Glad you can still get spares. Cheers
@stevenparsons407613 күн бұрын
Thank you,is a special tool needed to remove the valvgear when fitting new traction tyres (ive just bought a non runner) ,and woul appreciate any advice.
@ngaugeonashelf441712 күн бұрын
@@stevenparsons4076 The valve gear is held to the wheels by push in pins. You need a tiny pair of needle nose pliars to get those out. I small screwdriver will help with stretching the new traction tyre over the wheel. Take the body off and rotate the motor by hand to get the pin in the right place. Pull the pin. The rear one is easy to do so do that first for practice. The tyre should come off easy with your little screw driver. I get the tyre on the bottom of the wheel first and plant my thumb there to keep it in place then it's stretching the tyre round the wheel with the screw driver. It will want to twist. Get it seated in the groove and get the pin back in but not too tight. You want a fair amount of movement. The front is much harder. Rotate it, get the pin out and then take your time. It will take time but you can get it on behind the valve gear with care and a number of 4 letter words. It will take a few goes before you get it on correctly. Pop the pin back in, again not tight. Make sure the rods move freely and if anything is bent you can give it tiny tweaks.
@stevenparsons407612 күн бұрын
Thank you for that guide much appreciated😊😊
@ngaugeonashelf441712 күн бұрын
@@stevenparsons4076 Patience is the key. And sometimes walking away for 5 minutes when it comes to the front wheel.
@111greatbear315 күн бұрын
Graham farish is my favourite N gauge brand as I've owned old and new models in the past and now
@ngaugeonashelf441714 күн бұрын
The latest GF are outstanding in every way. It's very hard not to go out and buy more. Cheers
@111greatbear314 күн бұрын
@@ngaugeonashelf4417 much more reliable than dapol N gauge models
@ParkinsonsWalks18 күн бұрын
My gosh Simon, you have done a lot of work. Who is mowing the grass meanwhile? No doubt you will put the window on the north facing side if you have one. Keep smiling. Ron
@ngaugeonashelf441718 күн бұрын
Hello Ron, I take after my grandparents. They set the example of getting on with a job and not stopping for an endless supply of cups of tea. Window is on the North side. Guy I was waiting for a quote from never showed up. Got another guy who visited on tuesday, measured, quoted tuesday night and fitted it on the thursday. Draft is decent when the wind blows but it is still hot up there on a day like today. But not as hot. It's taken the edge off and will no doubt the insulation prove it's worth in winter. In short I've extended the number of months I can use the room. Please most of all it's now very clean. That video I did in the dark and while I was putting the insulation in my hair was full of filth. What little I have left. Thanks for stopping by. Simon
@iansngauge18 күн бұрын
Hi Simon! Wow! What a difference! It looks so bright and airy up there! It will make such a difference having a pleasant area to work in, and I suspect it's even more pleasant now that you've got the window fitted! Yes, placing the lighting where you have will definitely pay dividends when it comes to filming - no more dark camera shadows - although I'd recommend also getting an LED panel for your camera, as you'll find that there are now shadows being cast the other way, just not as harsh! An LED panal can be used to balance them out with more light! Not sure what that foam is you've used to line the loft, but it's not XPS foam, as that doesn't break up, can be cut cleanly with a utility knife, and can be stuck down using PVA - I'd recommend Gorilla wood glue! Looking forward to seeing the window install now! All the best, Ian.
@ngaugeonashelf441718 күн бұрын
Hello Ian, it's no wonder I failed 20 odd years ago with how filthy it was. I have struggled with disturbing 45 years of dust. The window works, gets a nice draft through if the wind is blowing. Still quite warm up there now it's 28 outside. I don't think I can fix that but it should be better in winter. I think I've extended the number of months I can go up there a bit. I think the lights are in the right place and I do have an led panel for the camera. When I get up there properly I will do some testing. Using the phone right now but I have a canon m50 in a cage for golf with a mount for the microphone and there is a mount for a light. I might also try 4K video too and more frames per second. As to scenery I'm probably going to go down cardboard and papier mache route. Save some money on foam and plaster bandage. I'll try and use waste from our shopping and wallpaper paste. See how the money goes. Just out of interest where did you get your blue foam in case I change my mind. I've never seen it anywhere. Thanks
@iansngauge18 күн бұрын
@@ngaugeonashelf4417 - I used to get my XPS foam from B&Q and Wickes, but their prices skyrocketed, so I started to get it from Amazon! Amazon now seem to be catching up pricewise unfortunately! There are affiliate links to several products in the description of my videos if you want to take a look! :) Alternatively, if you've got a building site near to you, they often throw quite large pieces away, and most are more than happy to let you raid their skips!!! Just make sure you ask first! Cheers, Ian.
@ngaugeonashelf441718 күн бұрын
@@iansngauge Thanks. I'll check it out. I was going to use 12mm fibre board on my base so it's easy to pin to but hardly anybody sells it now. I would have quite a drive to buy some. It's very cheap so maybe worth while over B&Q and staying local. I'll check out the price. Cheers Ian
@zippy513118 күн бұрын
Coming along nicely. The foam XPS, cut it with a hot wire cutter and to stick it together you need to remove the surface layer. Either by sanding (outside) or hot wire then use PVA, hot glue, foam safe cyano, pinning it together with cocktail sticks or bamboo skewers (Then snip them off flush). There are plenty of Wargames scenery and crafting vids on here showing how to use XPS and shape it to your want. So feet up, brew on and biccies at hand. Enjoy.
@ngaugeonashelf441718 күн бұрын
Thanks for the info. I've seen polystyrene cut with a wire cutter on a video but not that foam. I'll look into it, cheers.
@davidberlanny330819 күн бұрын
Hi Simon, excellent progress, it looks really clean up there, well done!! Glad you've put the window in, it will really help. We're well into the 40°s down here, just hiding away till the sun goes down!! All the best!!
@ngaugeonashelf441719 күн бұрын
Hello David, clean is everything. No point starting if it will end up like the last one. Makes a huge difference. Plus with the sky light in I don't have to switch the lights on for normal activities. Will need it in winter no doubt. 40's? My wife is complaining about 29. But then we don't have aircon over here. Do you? Or just the usual Spanish yard thick walls?
@davidberlanny330819 күн бұрын
@@ngaugeonashelf4417 Well AC is new for us we had it out in last year, before we just got by with fans. For many years we lived near the coast in Murcia, not as hot but much more humid. Here in Granada we are high up and it is dry which makes either extreme easier to but these summers over the last couple of years are much more extreme.
@ngaugeonashelf441718 күн бұрын
@@davidberlanny3308 We live in a valley and it's very humid here in summer. The air gets trapped and after 3 or 4 days of sun we get thunderstorms. Which is a blessing because then I don't have to listen to the wife complaining it's too hot.
@davidberlanny330818 күн бұрын
@@ngaugeonashelf4417 ⛈️⛈️⛈️😂😂😂😂
@nevillehubbard734719 күн бұрын
Now that looks somewhat different! If ever you have a spare 10 minutes, any chance you could install one of those lights in our garage??? Seriously, you now have the space to expand the layout. I'm looking forward to marvelling while watching this develop!!!
@ngaugeonashelf441719 күн бұрын
I can do that for you. Single tube? Double tube? What length? Just go to screwfix and get it. It's only 3 wires. What could possibly go wrong? It's too hot for anything today. I've been up and spent my time standing by the open window and then gave up. Not too bad up there for a day of 29 degrees.
@nevillehubbard734719 күн бұрын
@@ngaugeonashelf4417you're talking to someone who has previous wiring a plug inproperly!! What could go wrong??? Well, the garage has a fair chance of burning down!!!! (No joke!!!). I am to DIY what you are to "NeuroLinguistic Programming" (advertising!!!). We'll get someone in!!! 3 wires? Multiple choice then? I have a 1 in 27 chance of getting it right (and, as "the boss" will tell you, a 26 out of 27 chance of screwing it up!!!!). Don't like the odds! Looks really good mind! How someone who's 6ft 5 ins instals Velux windows is beyond me!!!!
@ngaugefouroaksstreetstatio693219 күн бұрын
Well done Simon, I'm sure you will succeed.
@ngaugeonashelf441719 күн бұрын
I'm well on the way to taking the old one down now. Track to recover and then hack away at the hills. Cheers
@TwoRailfans19 күн бұрын
I think your solution is going to work well enough to keep it comfortable most of the time. Are you going to have seating up there when you are done? Where does the mini bar go? 🍺 Just joking. 🤣 The foam that is popular in the US is extruded polystyrene which does not leave much of a mess when cut. When we glued our foam to board, we used wood glue and it worked great. Nice progress, and looking forward to more updates!
@ngaugeonashelf441719 күн бұрын
The mini bar goes under the board near the controllers. Ice machine next to it. I've got a tv that goes on the wall above the fiddle yard and I'm going to sling a hammock between the rafters. That blue or sometimes purple foam board looks so easy to use. I've not seen it for sale over here. I'm struggling to find 1/2 inch soft board/ pin board. 20 years ago you could find it anywhere and now it's as rare as hens teeth. I'm going to have to drive to get it, cheaper for me to drive than them to deliver it. Latest update is I'm taking the old one down but struggling with the ballasted track. Going to the model shop today to ask about back scene as I don't want that to bubble up again. I'm sure they know more than me.
@BrianSanders-tn7pi19 күн бұрын
Hi Simon. Looks like you,ve been busy. Its also nice to see you in the light. Looking at that space that you are standing in I would struggle to fit. At 6'4" it would be a tight fit for me. A rooflight window is a good idea as it would throw in a lot more light. You,ve done well so far , keep up the good work. It won,t be long before we here the clickey clack again. Good luck fella. Regards.
@ngaugeonashelf441719 күн бұрын
The guy who did my velux was 6 foot 5. I asked him how do you get the tiles off and he just stood up. Not much space for me Brian and I'm a short arse. It's going well so far, I'm stripping the old layout but getting the track up is proving difficult. The chairs on flexi-track are so small and the rail just peels off the sleepers. I'll save some but not all. Thanks
@BrianSanders-tn7pi19 күн бұрын
@@ngaugeonashelf4417 Hi Simon , good morning. I don,t know what you stuck your track down with but if you used PVA then use warm water and it will soften the glue. Then use a wallpaper scraper to get under it. Yeah the height thing , well the minute I put any footwear on it pushes me up to 6'5" as well. Mind you I do a roaring trade in the supermarket " excuse me can you reach that for me ". I only do it for the ladies so you would be out of luck my friend ha ha.
@ngaugeonashelf441719 күн бұрын
@@BrianSanders-tn7pi Brian, I used track pins, ballast and then ballast bond. I have employed a couple of wallpaper scrapers. Oh, while you're here. Can you just reach that off the top shelf? Anyway, how do you know I don't identify as a Lady? 🤣🤣🤣🤣
@BrianSanders-tn7pi19 күн бұрын
@@ngaugeonashelf4417 Ha ha. I think that the beard gives you away my friend. You can identify as what you like but in my eyes your a bloke. Good one bud.
@ngaugeonashelf441719 күн бұрын
@@BrianSanders-tn7pi Not heard of the bearded lady at the circus? I've just been taking down some of the old layout and it's so hot in the bedroom I've given up for today. Fortunately the typical english summer will return and it will be much cooler next week. I think the only painful bit is the canal boats have sunk into the 'water' so much I'm not going to be able to get them out. Damn.
@111greatbear321 күн бұрын
Minitrix 9Fs alongside other minitrix engines have a lot of character
@ngaugeonashelf441721 күн бұрын
They really pull well too. I think it would go up the stairs if I laid track. Cheers
@michaelderozario562624 күн бұрын
I have one in green livery. Superb little runner,quiet and smooth. It’s the smallest loco I have because my layout doesn’t like 0-4-0’s and 0-6-0’s. Too many dead frogs catch them out unless they’re doing warp speeds. This one has many pickups so not a problem.
@ngaugeonashelf441724 күн бұрын
I have a green one too. Bought it a little later. I love the 2MT, nice little loco. I agree about tanks, they don't like points at all. I'm not DCC (can't afford it) so dead frogs are an issue. I saw a guy on OO gauge trimming the plastic to reduce the dead bit, not sure we can do that with N. Just have to put up with it or try and find a way of wiring in the first coach to pick up from those wheels. That's given me a thought as Dapol coaches have pick ups for the lighting bars. Maybe when I have nothing to do this winter.
@PaulSmith-pl7fo24 күн бұрын
Hi Simon. Backscenes: I don't know how you smoothed out bubbles when you used self-adhesive one, but I suspect you just used a cloth, which probably contributed to the stretching of the backscene. If you don't already have one, I suggest getting a printer's roller, but don't press too hard. Using a "wet" adhesive is likely to cause a backscene to stretch just as much, if not more, thana self-adhesive one. I'm sure you already know this, but you will need to let the loft's temperature acclimatise to the rest of the house before you determine whether the insulation is doing its job. Good luck with it!
@ngaugeonashelf441724 күн бұрын
Hello Paul, I smoothed out with a very technical device - my thumb. I'm trying to figure out why it let go in the first place and the answer I keep coming back to is I used 5mm ply which isn't really that flat. I wonder if I use 5mm MDF which is smooth it will be better? What I will be doing is talking to Cheltenham Model Centre when I get to the point of buying some. There are some guys in there who will know the answer. It's quite nice up there now, especially as summer has decided to leave us and I now have a window to let the hot air out. You'll see in a couple of videos. I've stretched the budget quite a bit though. Cheers
@PaulSmith-pl7fo24 күн бұрын
Hi Simon. I have both the green and blue livery variants - beautiful!
@ngaugeonashelf441724 күн бұрын
Hello Paul, I've seen plenty of green ones before, first time seeing blue and I had to have it. Blue is a boys thing I think. Having said that he had a maroon Duchess and it was hard to choose between the 2. Hopefully he will be at the Lydney show in September and I can correct that.
@paulrounding526024 күн бұрын
The best running n gauge locos I have, (Bachmann) both have tender drive wheels with the motor in it.
@ngaugeonashelf441724 күн бұрын
I don't mind tender drive, Hornby have been doing it for years. Now N gauge motors are smaller and better no reson not to do it at all. But that damn shft drive to the loco doesn't really work. It's trying to fix a problem that doesn't exist. I've since been told if the shaft is not located correctly or has flash on it or the 2 sockets have flash on them the loco will derail. That isn't good. Cheers
@Wickford_N_Gauge25 күн бұрын
I thought I was watching David Bellamy 😇 reporting about creepy crawlies 🐛 from the Amazon 👀 Hopefully the Sauna is under control 🤞 and the dog 🐕 has stopped licking your leg 🦵 🤣🤣🤣🤣 Very best wishes from the Emerald Isle ☘️
@ngaugeonashelf441725 күн бұрын
It was full off filth. Everytime I came downstairs my hair (what little is left) was full of it. It's night and day different now. It's almost a room. I think the dog was liking the salt - I was saturated. Fortunately the British summer has come to my aid and it's nice a cool now. Plus with the window I can spy on my neighbours.
@Wickford_N_Gauge25 күн бұрын
Neighbour watch 👀 sounds like an idea 💡 for a new TV 📺 show 🤭
@ngaugeonashelf441725 күн бұрын
@@Wickford_N_Gauge I'll get arrested if I'm not careful!
@iansngauge25 күн бұрын
Hi Simon! Some good progress made in the loft, especially in this heat! Reading the other comments I see that you've already got the insulation installed, along with a window! That'll definitely help! My train room, which is still my office, is in a south facing upstairs bedroom, and it regularly hits temperatures of over 30C in the summer, which is definitely too hot to work in! Your loft must be much hotter than that, so I've got my fingers crossed that your heat reduction techniques will work! I'm already looking forward to the next update! All the best, Ian.
@ngaugeonashelf441725 күн бұрын
Ian, it is very cool today up there. I popped up to see how it was briefly. Of course it's helped by the British weather! That bedroom I'm in is the same, gets the afternoon sun and can be very hot in there after work. Especially as I can't reach the window over the baord and back scene........ great planning! The best thing about it is it is now clean instead of all the filth hanging down. It's very easy to see why 22 years ago it failed. This time will be better. A lot better. Cheers
@ParkinsonsWalks26 күн бұрын
Hi Simon, in old roofs they didn't have cross tresses like to day, they had pearling's which supported the roof timbers and the supports were vertical so they didn't impinge on the roof space so much. Unfortunately they needed some skill and woodworking knowledge to fit, rather than a crane and a hammer. Since you have got this far, would it take much to fit pearling's and do away with cross braces? Keep smiling. Ron
@ngaugeonashelf441726 күн бұрын
Ron the old roofs were wonderful empty spaces. Even my 5 foot 5 is a little cramped in there. Well it's too late to do anything about changing the timbers and I'm not entirely sure how to go about it. But you may change your mind when you see later videos. It is well developed now and you may be surprised at the transformation. In fact it's time to start taking the old one down to use the material on it. Boxes and bubble wrap in hand I'll be starting tomorrow night very slowly.
@BrianSanders-tn7pi26 күн бұрын
Hi Simon. I used to hate going up into my loft in the summer. Remember you said that you have a ventilation pipe for an old heating system going up through your loft. I don,t know what your loft looks like but is there a way of using that pipe to give you better cooling ? Obviously it will need to be able to be shut in the winter. There's got to be a waybof reducing the heat up there. The heat will do a fair bit of damage to anything plastic. As for building and signal footprints I always use a bit of balsa wood to bring it up to the right height, and its easy to ballast. I am a very tall fella at 6'4" so I don,t have a problem reaching things generally. But you will have to consider accessibility. I hope that the insulation helps you but it will affect you in that you will not be able to tolerate the heat, thus affecting your running time. Good luck to you my friend, I hope that it works. Regards.
@ngaugeonashelf441726 күн бұрын
Hello Brian, you should see the room now. Not sure about the old gas fire exhaust. I chose to leave it alone in the end and had a window put in instead. That helps. Should be warmer in winter but most of all the room is now clean. I think next weeks video will be a startling difference. Cheers
@davidberlanny330826 күн бұрын
Hi Simon, Exciting times!! The insulation will pay dividends in winter for sure. I was commenting on Ron's channel that we live in ovens, once the heat gets into the building it transmits inside too. Mind you I think you'll get best use outside of the summer months (er ... Weeks, no er ... days, er .... day) Did I read that you have put a window in? I'm sure that will help. Conversely be worth thinking about a blind for it. Most of the time you won't be up there but the sunlight will discolour everything in its path. Great opportunity to build the layout you always wanted. Good luck!!
@ngaugeonashelf441726 күн бұрын
Hello David, it is now in a very different state to what you see here and yes there is a window in to help with a through draft. Although since it has been fitted the sun has not shown it's face. It is very different and now very clean. I have given myself the very best chance of success. It's easy to see why I failed last time I was up there. My Dad died and I looked after Mum and didn't go near it for years and it ended up corroded and covered in filth from off the underside of the roof. Cheers
@davidberlanny330825 күн бұрын
@@ngaugeonashelf4417 Sounds great look forward to seeing the progress.
@ngaugeonashelf441725 күн бұрын
@@davidberlanny3308 I will be packing up from tomorrow, got to be careful and recover as much as possible. I can see me laying track come the end of September with a fair wind. Got to get some soft board delivered first. Thanks David.
@davidberlanny330825 күн бұрын
@@ngaugeonashelf4417 Hi Simon, I think I owe you a dislocated elbow anecdote but before that your "packing up" reminded of me of moving our dublo. At one time we had the O gauge and the dublo in the main part of the loft but as both expanded we decided to move the dublo into a smaller side loft. After preparing the base boards we ran a short cantilever section over the new baseboards and used the dublo crane to lower some of the track and stock. We filmed it too, using a windup clockwork cinema camera (no sound). Pretty sure I have it on a VHS or DVD. Alas times change the dublo track has been lifted leaving a clean baseboard below marking the old route, like a GWR fencepost, it's only at this moment you realise how much dirt accumulates over the years!! Good luck with the move!!
@ngaugeonashelf441725 күн бұрын
@@davidberlanny3308 David if yu don't mind I'll skip the elbow story. I cannot imagine how painful that was. Lots are not the place for railways. They are a large space but you have to spend so much to get them into a clean space like a room below. I'm having fun though. Cheers
@ngaugefouroaksstreetstatio693226 күн бұрын
Hi Simon, i cannot stress enough how the environment in the loft has to like another room in your house otherwise you will simply not bother going in there after a while. I have been in my loft here in Aus on a 38 degree day and it was 51 degrees in the loft, luckily i was only in there for 10 minutes. Very good to hear all the improvements you want to make, i think that desire applies to all modelers, nothing is perfect i guess. All the best.
@ngaugeonashelf441726 күн бұрын
You will have to wait to see what it looks like now. The insulation does not keep all the heat out but it should keep the heat in in winter. I think I've knocked off the 2 extremes but also it's now clean. Plus I had a window fitted for the draft which works. There maybe some days it's too hot still but I think I've solved most of the problems. Touch wood!
@nononsense352826 күн бұрын
Great stuff. Those pre formed “W” trusses are a sodding nuisance, rendering the biggest room of the house more or less unusable. I have them in my loft and gave up on the idea of having my layout up there 🙁. Good luck pushing forward with your new project. 👊🏻
@ngaugeonashelf441726 күн бұрын
They are awful and thrown up and warped too. When I was measuring I was quite shocked at how bad they were. It is possible to have a layout, I hope the next 2 videos will at least give you the option of revisiting the idea. But it's not cheap either. If I had a garage I would take the door off and put a wall and window in. That would be so much better and probably cost the same. Cheers
@petepaine533126 күн бұрын
Hi Simon. Gosh your brave going in the loft this weather !. Ah ! the curse of the trussed roof always makes things more difficult. Good to see you making progress though Pete
@ngaugeonashelf441726 күн бұрын
Hello Pete, it's a bit more hospitable now 3 weeks later. Brave or stupid? 😂 The trusses are awful but that's the way they make them now. Could use a little more head room too even for a shorty like me. I've just had a 6 foot 5 workman in and it looked like he was in a toy room.
@TwoRailfans26 күн бұрын
This is the update from you I have been wanting to see! I like the "old guys rule" shirt. 😎 I'm sure you will be glad to get that insulation in. Just imagine if you were in Texas. I agree with you on accessibility. You definitely need to be able to reach and maintain every part of the layout. Our backdrop is currently just sky blue, but we plan on adding clouds and some other things as well. We are NOT artists. I have seen some great easy techniques for clouds though. We are about to do some water on our layout. Check of the KZread channel Marklin of Sweden. I honestly think his water looks the most natural and is cheap to do. Great update on this project.
@ngaugeonashelf441726 күн бұрын
Got to have an old guys rule shirt. I think I've got 8 or 9! The insulation is in and the lighting and it looks so much better plus cleaner. My last effort got absolutely filthy in the loft. No wonder it failed. It does still get hot up there but not as bad. The winter it should be warmer with no drafts and I added a window for ventilation and to get some air moving. I still haven't made up my mind about a back scene. A tin of light blue paint is very cheap but not quite hills and greenery. I'm going to ask in the model shop about why my back scene might of bubbled up and then I will make up my mind. I'll check out that channel, thankyou.
Пікірлер
Do your research before you buy because sometimes it cheaper at a DIY place other times it's cheaper at a builders merchant other times cheaper at a specialist supplier.
I do a lot of looking around before I get anything. Time equals saved money. Thanks
Well I admire your tenacity for modelling in a loft .
I think I've got a good enough space now. Certainly not good enough before I got it insulated and clean. Cheers
Hi Simon! It's great to see the window in place! Will make a huge difference to both light levels, and through drafts on hot days! Are you not going to post any videos of you dismantling the layout? That could be interesting! It's true what you say about part of the fun being in the building! I keep tropical fish, and in that hobby we have a thing called Multiple Tank Syndrome (MTS)! I had eleven aquariums set up at one point, although I've currently only got seven, and am trying to cut back further! I had eleven aquariums because I like the process of creating a habitat for different types of tropical fish, as much as watching them! I think model railways have a similar draw! Personally I really enjoy constructing the layout, especially as there are a huge mix of different skills required to perform the construction! One day I'll find out if I actually enjoy operating the trains! Lol! I look forward to your return! All the best, Ian.
Hello Ian, too late to make videos of me taking it down as it's down. As it happens I did make 2 videos after this one. But until I start building there is nothing to show really. I tried keeping fish but had a lot of bad luck with them. Had a koi pond for 10 years but that became too much trouble in the end. Sold up and filled in. Building is going to be very slow, I want to get it all correct this time. No more mistakes. Cheers, Simon
I clicked on video thinking it was for loft storage. I'm not into Model Trains myself but it looks like an interesting hobby. I just thought I'd comment as I'm a woodworker who has recently been putting in very similar shelves to store my hardwoods somewhere dry. You mentioned the person who buys the house having to deal with the tops. I think most people would find them very useful for storing stuff in an organized manner, so it may well be seen as a selling point. Better than stacking you Xmas tree & old photo albums all over the floor! Curious how much you paid for the Velux window. I'd like to put one in to make it more pleasnt to go up into the loft to organize my stock.
By the way, that's an amazing diorama you've created. Very impressed! You're right about the journey being as important as the destination.
@@McMonkeyful Hello, and thankyou for dropping in. First thing I did was throw out the junk that had been sat there for 25 years doing nothing. It took a couple of trips to the tip. Woodworking? Now I don't have any skills in that direction, it skipped me and went to my youngest son. I paid £1000 for the window to be fitted. It's 56cm x 78 cm and didn't require any timbers to be cut. I don't think it's a real velux, probably came from screwfix. In screwfix the window is roughly £350 and the fitting kit with flashing is roughly £190. Ten you have the roof tile cutting to do to make the rain run off properly. I probably paid the very top of the price but I did have 2 workmen on site for 5 hours. Hope that helps. Simon
@@ngaugeonashelf4417 Thanks Simon. That seems like a reasonable price when you're going to be up there a lot. I probably don't spend enough time grabbing stock to justify that sort of outlay. Boarding the loft out was a grotty job, with little airflow. I probably would have paid the grand back when I did that to make the week I was slaving away more bearable. I agree about chucking out the junk. I've spent ten years throwing stuff up there that I don't know what to do with. Gradually sorting through it & charity shop/tipping the stuff I don't envision using. I really was impressed with your diorama (if that's the correct term) and will keep an eye out for your future videos (subscribed) to see how the loft version turns out :)
@@McMonkeyful I think the best part for me was making it a clean space. Just pinning something to the underside of the rafters would do that if I wasn't using it as a room. It's still going to be warm up there but I'm hoping it will be warm in winter too. If the insulation takes the 2 extreme ends of temperture off I will be grateful. Looking forward to getting the layout started. It's a long project though. Thanks for watching.
Always nice to watch a New layout evolve. Wonder who the person was who took a saw to his layout to extend it.....😅 I've subbed to watch the build progress. Cheers Euan
Thankyou Euan, going to be slow progress until winter. Plus I want to spend more time making it right without mistakes. The Gent who I have been following is called K, S & LD. He built it, then extended it and then scrapped it. He doesn't have many videos so it's worth starting from the beginning. He is a good modeller and I have been inspired by things he has done and he has helped me with a question or 2. Thanks.
Hi Simon. Thats great. You can use it as an escape hatch should you get in trouble ! Pete
I don't think I can get my belly through it Pete.
Very good Simon, i think the current layout has a bit of everything requiring all the modelling disciplines so the next one I'm sure will be even better.
The plan is to do it very slowly and plan each section so I don't forget signals, lineside huts and where I want houses and roads. I think I did the previous one in too much of a rush.
@@ngaugeonashelf4417 it's not a race
@@ngaugefouroaksstreetstatio6932 No. I justg rushed a bit last time.
And a very nice hole in the roof it has become!!! That's ideal! I know what you're going to be up to all winter!!! Lovely to see the trains run one last time, but bigger and better awaits in the autumn. Enjoy your project!
It's made a difference. Don't have to put the light on most of the time. Should pay for itself in 50 years or so.....
Hi Simon, I referred to your window as a dormer window in my vlog not a velox - close. Nice to have a last look at the old layout. Enjoy your Hols. Ron
Hello Ron, not so sure of the brand name of the window. The guy probably sourced it from screwfix. It lets the light in, the hot air out and after that serious rain we had a little while back is water tight. Can't complain then. We have only had 2 days rain so far, another day of it tomorrow. That's not bad for me, usually worse! Simon
Looking forward to when you are ready to start the next phase 👍
Hi Billy, next job is to buy some 12mm soft board to use as my base. I've put in some temporary inclines to see what is possible and where I want it to go. The real inclines will be woodland scenics as they just have to be correct this time. Cheers
Hi Simon. That roof window makes such a difference with the light, I can actually see you now. I remember when you first showed us your loft it was so dark that I could barely see you. You will still find things that you can do ,like salvaging your trees and buildings from the old layout. One thing that I would suggest for you is to buy some large diameter pipe lagging , you know the grey foam stuff. I can absolutely guarantee that you will bang your head on those roof trusses. Welcome to my world.Get some zip ties to secure them. You will be zooming around up there and it is enevitable that you will bang your head or some other body part. Just a bit of advice from a very clumsy git. Take care my friend , see you again soon. Regards.
Brian, I think the best bit is it's clean. When I tried 22 uears ago it was awful up there. Of course you learn as you go. I have some fersh dents in my head from fitting the fronts and backs of the board. I shall wear a helmet when I'm wiring. Hopefully I will not have to go under there too damn often!
@@ngaugeonashelf4417 Hi Simon. As the saying goes 'famous last words'. You know as well as I do you,ll be under there fiddling around with something. You have an enviroment that is crawling with accidents. As I said before I am a clumsy git. The last time I banged my head was because I took on a forklift , it won. Just be careful bud.
@@BrianSanders-tn7pi Brian, just don't talk me into putting a foot wrong and going down the hole! I do have a solid 18mm cover for it made out of chip board. Just in case!
@@ngaugeonashelf4417 Hi Simon. That sounds like a good idea. Maybe put a tape barrier across in front of it just to be on the safe side. I worked in an industry that is full of accidents and I got my fair share so I am accutely aware of potential accidents . It doesn,t always stop me from having them though. Be careful up there my friend and enjoy your railway. Take care.
@@BrianSanders-tn7pi Brian, I used to climb cellphone towers for a living. I was a planner rather than a fitter. The highest I went up was the BBC Redruth mast but only to 75m. About half way. We only had 1 fatality that I know of. A contractor painter who wasn't looking after himself properly. First thing I did was to put some chipboard together to cover the hole anytime I was working near it. I don't like stepping over it, especially as I'm wearing my reading glasses much of the time and the floor isn't always where I thing it is!
That window is going to make a huge difference! Best of luck taking down the old layout. I hope you are able to save most of it!
It's all down now and boxed up. Lost a lot of track but that happens when it's ballasted. The flexi track chairs are very small and not very robust. Such is life. Fortunately it's not expensive.
ui bought a foam cutting saw from B&Q, for about a tenner - cant find it though! I use firefoam for everything including sticking kingspan maybe one velux and at the otheer end a non see through openable / closable vent
I used a saw from B&Q too. I needed a long saw anyway and as you say, got it for a tenner. It made life very easy. The 20mm overlay I used a sharp knife, didn't need anything more serious than that. I got a velux in the end, just a narrow one so no timbers had to be cut. Not sure if it is a 'velux' , probably a cheaper brand.
is it possible to put a powercar at both ends of a 5 coach unit and run it?
I have no idea. Would polarity be an issue? With each unit facing a different way they will want to drive off in different directions. Plus the power connection for the lights through the coupling. Let's say yes it is with some wiring adjustments. All depends if you want to get the soldering iron out. I'd say not worth it. The main car pulls strongly enough. That's all I can think of, I'm no expert. In fact I'm a million miles from being an expert. Thanks for the query.
Hi Simon! I'm really enjoying this series showing us how you're going about building a loft layout! I would definitely think about making some of the scenery removable - especially the tunnels!!! It's not only a good idea for access, but it'll also allow you to work on it away from the loft, on those really hot / cold days! Anyway, looks like you're going to have some nice long runs, and plenty of room for a fiddle yard to store the bulk of your stock! Speaking of stock, I'm looking forward to seeing some of it that you haven't sold on! All the best, Ian.
Hello Ian, like yourself I'm trying to show every step. Might prove useful to someone. Not sure about removable scenery. I wouldn't know how to go about it. I think my design will not require it but we shall see. Not going to show the stock until I've got some track down. mid october maybe. Cheers
This is exciting Simon, following the build. Nice natural commentary explaining the issues and solutions you choose. Thanks for letting us in to watch the developments. Ron
Hello Ron, I remember on the last build I skipped so much that might just be useful to someone. I'm trying to show every step this time. Simon
Hi Simon. Well your cracking on. Those boards look sturdy. One suggestion I may offer you is to think about having lift off scenary above you tunnels. It will make access even easier for cleaning. Your backscene issue. Maybe before you commit to putting a whole sheet on try cutting two one foot pieces and stick them with the glues of your choice , give them a couple of days and see if they wrinkle. Anything that uses water will wrinkle them. Maybe try a varnish as a glue. Smear it on thin and roll the sheet on when it is tacky. Use a wallpaper roller to ensure an even finish. I didn,t think that you were going to have any inclines. Maybe use the dropped section as a place for an embankment and bridge combo. Or maybe create a storage yard under the layout top and cover it with scenary , extra storage is always useful. The great thing about the stage you are at right now is that you can put these ideas in place before you go to far. Anyway well done so far. I look forward to seeing your rolling stock. Good luck buddy.
Hello Brian, I have been to Cheltenham Model Centre and asked them about back scenes. I have a solution. Lift off above tunnels? Possible. I'm only having 1 tunnel to provide access to and I can create good access to it. I've planned ahead this time. I've got to have an incline because of the way the loft ladder swings when you put it away. I've got to get up and over that. You will have to wait and see. I'll get the stock out when I've got something to run it on. Late October perhaps. Cheers
Greetings Simon 👋 what a little palace you've created 🤩 hard to believe what you've achieved in such a short time 😇 Looking forward to catching up with your window 🪟 and neighbour watch 🤭 Very best wishes from the Emerald Isle ☘️
Hello Paul, it's coming along nicely. Might be laying track in October. I'm already formulating a christmas list of static grass and other bits. If the weather was half way decent I'd be playing golf and making my golf videos. As it is the rain is giving me ample time to work in the loft. I've not been watching the nighbours, if you saw them you would see why. <shudder>
You do realise that some of us only understood one word in three! I always thought that you could bash nails into wood, not screws!!!! I know, I'm a sad case!!!! But, we have an electrician who's going to install proper lighting in the garage on Friday!!!! Hooray! Apart from that, I really have no idea what the 90° brackets are going to do!!!! Yes, i know, a sad case, but I have other talents, but it's so long since ive used them, I can't remember what they are!!! It'll be an interesting project to stop you getting bored (or should that be "board"!!) over the winter!
Nails? You heathen! No. Thye just don't grip like a screw. If you have squeeky floorboards that the nails. 90 degree brackets are a means of making a 90 degree joint without all of the tedious chiseling and sawing and enevitable throwing of botched timber in the fire. And you can move them if you want to. Very useful for someone who has no talent. You are employing a sparky? That's bold. I hope you have taken out a loan! I think over winter I will be editing youtube videos. Seriously I hope to be laying track in October when I'm not o nthe range bashing balls. Cheers
@@ngaugeonashelf4417 yes, heathen indeed!!!! I really have no idea regarding anything DIY! And as far as electricity is concerned, that stuff kills people!!! I'm looking forward to watching the railway develop and marvelling at your skills (between golf sessions!).
@@nevillehubbard7347 I've had a few shocks, not got me yet. If I had any skill I wouldn't of needed to rebuild it!
Hi Simon, well done, great progress. You can really start to appreciate the size now. Think in real life you now have the window installed, I'm sure we'll see in due course. All the best!!
Hello David, we are getting some Spanish weather for one day next week. At the moment it's morel ike autumn over here. 20 feet down each side is quite long. Although one end is reserved for sidings so I don't have to keep putting trains away in a drawer. Window is in and all boards complete. Next month I will be getting some 12mm soft baord to go on the tops. It's an easier surface to work on that direct onto the timber. Take care. Simon
Hi Simon, really enjoying watching your journey with the new layout. You still have plenty to share at this point, I like the idea of showing the current loco fleet, also sharing the track plan may be advantageous as others may be able to give advice or ideas that you hadn't thought of. I also noticed a comment about the wood moving due to the climate in the attic, I think the wood would only move if you had any moisture or condensation, I'm no expert and I'm sure many other modellers who have attic layouts could shed more light, but you could always seal the wood with some paint or even a coat of thinned down pva if you think you may have an issue. Keep up the good work! All the best Tony.
Hello Tony, I like making the videos and it encourages me to move on with it rather than get caught up with something else for a few weeks. Plus when I made the bedroom one I skipped a lot of steps. I don't want to do that this time. I'll show the fleet when I have some track down as it has changed a lot. I bought stuff off ebay, got it running and then sold at a small profit. £10 here and £20 there in order to fund job lots of bits and new locos. I don't think the timber will move. It's screwed to load bearing timber and if that moves it's because the entire roof has blown off. 12mm soft board will go over the top. I've watched a lot of attic videos and they are all different. Some have used no insulation whatsoever and that is what I had 22 years ago and it failed. Was also filthy too. The condensation was a real problem in winter. Hopefully now it will be fine. I guess I'll find out in a few months. Cheers Simon
Good to watch your progress. A loco / rolling stock collection video would be pretty interesting, but either way I shall be looking forward to your next instalment 👍
Once I've got some track down in a couple of months I'll show what I have left as some of the early stuff has been sold. Cheers
Getting there Simon, is the board tolerant of temperature changes? I remember what happened with Everard junction but i think that was chip board.
No idea is the simple answer. Chip board doesn't like getting wet, it absorbs and expands if soaked for a long time. Not sure about the PIR board. I'll be putting 12mm soft board over the top as I will not be using 5mm cork under the track. That was a pain, trying to get a track pin into the wood underneath and the track wandering about as I fought with it. Soft board it goes straight in no bother. Should make my run smoother anyway. Cheers.
Well done Simon ,its all looking good. Cant wait to see the layout develop Pete
The boards are complete. Next month I've got to buy 12mm soft board, I'm not using 5mm cork under the track this time as it's not deep enough and I just bent a ton of pins. Then build the fiddle yard. I could be running by November. Cheers Pete.
I used 6mm mdf for my back scenes. That backing with the pre glue still bubbled. Lord knows how. It was a smooth as a ducks bottom when fitted. I think it may actually need a backing paper first. But too late for me. lol.
Right. There is a video coming up. I went to Cheltenham model centre and asked. They said you have to seal the timber with pva first and don't use mdf as it sucks the glue off the paper and absorbs it more than ply. I was told to stick with 5mm ply even though it's surface is not smooth like mdf. MDF is really dry and soaks it up off the paper. I guess we both could of used that before we started.
It's looking good. I almost built our inclines but ended up using the Woodland Scenics inclines made out of foam. No measuring required and easy to install, but obviously more expensive than doing it yourself.
It's complete now and last night I sat up there and made some plans. I'm with you, after weighing all the pros and cons I have decided to use the Woodland Scenics inclines. It will be so simple and will be correct. I really don't want to repeat the mistakes I made in the bedroom. Plus you can bend it into curves quite easily. That's another thing, I don't want any straight lines up here. Thanks for watching.
I understand they have traction tyres did you replace those ? Thoriyghly enjoyed the video😊
I did indeed and it ran very well. Glad you can still get spares. Cheers
Thank you,is a special tool needed to remove the valvgear when fitting new traction tyres (ive just bought a non runner) ,and woul appreciate any advice.
@@stevenparsons4076 The valve gear is held to the wheels by push in pins. You need a tiny pair of needle nose pliars to get those out. I small screwdriver will help with stretching the new traction tyre over the wheel. Take the body off and rotate the motor by hand to get the pin in the right place. Pull the pin. The rear one is easy to do so do that first for practice. The tyre should come off easy with your little screw driver. I get the tyre on the bottom of the wheel first and plant my thumb there to keep it in place then it's stretching the tyre round the wheel with the screw driver. It will want to twist. Get it seated in the groove and get the pin back in but not too tight. You want a fair amount of movement. The front is much harder. Rotate it, get the pin out and then take your time. It will take time but you can get it on behind the valve gear with care and a number of 4 letter words. It will take a few goes before you get it on correctly. Pop the pin back in, again not tight. Make sure the rods move freely and if anything is bent you can give it tiny tweaks.
Thank you for that guide much appreciated😊😊
@@stevenparsons4076 Patience is the key. And sometimes walking away for 5 minutes when it comes to the front wheel.
Graham farish is my favourite N gauge brand as I've owned old and new models in the past and now
The latest GF are outstanding in every way. It's very hard not to go out and buy more. Cheers
@@ngaugeonashelf4417 much more reliable than dapol N gauge models
My gosh Simon, you have done a lot of work. Who is mowing the grass meanwhile? No doubt you will put the window on the north facing side if you have one. Keep smiling. Ron
Hello Ron, I take after my grandparents. They set the example of getting on with a job and not stopping for an endless supply of cups of tea. Window is on the North side. Guy I was waiting for a quote from never showed up. Got another guy who visited on tuesday, measured, quoted tuesday night and fitted it on the thursday. Draft is decent when the wind blows but it is still hot up there on a day like today. But not as hot. It's taken the edge off and will no doubt the insulation prove it's worth in winter. In short I've extended the number of months I can use the room. Please most of all it's now very clean. That video I did in the dark and while I was putting the insulation in my hair was full of filth. What little I have left. Thanks for stopping by. Simon
Hi Simon! Wow! What a difference! It looks so bright and airy up there! It will make such a difference having a pleasant area to work in, and I suspect it's even more pleasant now that you've got the window fitted! Yes, placing the lighting where you have will definitely pay dividends when it comes to filming - no more dark camera shadows - although I'd recommend also getting an LED panel for your camera, as you'll find that there are now shadows being cast the other way, just not as harsh! An LED panal can be used to balance them out with more light! Not sure what that foam is you've used to line the loft, but it's not XPS foam, as that doesn't break up, can be cut cleanly with a utility knife, and can be stuck down using PVA - I'd recommend Gorilla wood glue! Looking forward to seeing the window install now! All the best, Ian.
Hello Ian, it's no wonder I failed 20 odd years ago with how filthy it was. I have struggled with disturbing 45 years of dust. The window works, gets a nice draft through if the wind is blowing. Still quite warm up there now it's 28 outside. I don't think I can fix that but it should be better in winter. I think I've extended the number of months I can go up there a bit. I think the lights are in the right place and I do have an led panel for the camera. When I get up there properly I will do some testing. Using the phone right now but I have a canon m50 in a cage for golf with a mount for the microphone and there is a mount for a light. I might also try 4K video too and more frames per second. As to scenery I'm probably going to go down cardboard and papier mache route. Save some money on foam and plaster bandage. I'll try and use waste from our shopping and wallpaper paste. See how the money goes. Just out of interest where did you get your blue foam in case I change my mind. I've never seen it anywhere. Thanks
@@ngaugeonashelf4417 - I used to get my XPS foam from B&Q and Wickes, but their prices skyrocketed, so I started to get it from Amazon! Amazon now seem to be catching up pricewise unfortunately! There are affiliate links to several products in the description of my videos if you want to take a look! :) Alternatively, if you've got a building site near to you, they often throw quite large pieces away, and most are more than happy to let you raid their skips!!! Just make sure you ask first! Cheers, Ian.
@@iansngauge Thanks. I'll check it out. I was going to use 12mm fibre board on my base so it's easy to pin to but hardly anybody sells it now. I would have quite a drive to buy some. It's very cheap so maybe worth while over B&Q and staying local. I'll check out the price. Cheers Ian
Coming along nicely. The foam XPS, cut it with a hot wire cutter and to stick it together you need to remove the surface layer. Either by sanding (outside) or hot wire then use PVA, hot glue, foam safe cyano, pinning it together with cocktail sticks or bamboo skewers (Then snip them off flush). There are plenty of Wargames scenery and crafting vids on here showing how to use XPS and shape it to your want. So feet up, brew on and biccies at hand. Enjoy.
Thanks for the info. I've seen polystyrene cut with a wire cutter on a video but not that foam. I'll look into it, cheers.
Hi Simon, excellent progress, it looks really clean up there, well done!! Glad you've put the window in, it will really help. We're well into the 40°s down here, just hiding away till the sun goes down!! All the best!!
Hello David, clean is everything. No point starting if it will end up like the last one. Makes a huge difference. Plus with the sky light in I don't have to switch the lights on for normal activities. Will need it in winter no doubt. 40's? My wife is complaining about 29. But then we don't have aircon over here. Do you? Or just the usual Spanish yard thick walls?
@@ngaugeonashelf4417 Well AC is new for us we had it out in last year, before we just got by with fans. For many years we lived near the coast in Murcia, not as hot but much more humid. Here in Granada we are high up and it is dry which makes either extreme easier to but these summers over the last couple of years are much more extreme.
@@davidberlanny3308 We live in a valley and it's very humid here in summer. The air gets trapped and after 3 or 4 days of sun we get thunderstorms. Which is a blessing because then I don't have to listen to the wife complaining it's too hot.
@@ngaugeonashelf4417 ⛈️⛈️⛈️😂😂😂😂
Now that looks somewhat different! If ever you have a spare 10 minutes, any chance you could install one of those lights in our garage??? Seriously, you now have the space to expand the layout. I'm looking forward to marvelling while watching this develop!!!
I can do that for you. Single tube? Double tube? What length? Just go to screwfix and get it. It's only 3 wires. What could possibly go wrong? It's too hot for anything today. I've been up and spent my time standing by the open window and then gave up. Not too bad up there for a day of 29 degrees.
@@ngaugeonashelf4417you're talking to someone who has previous wiring a plug inproperly!! What could go wrong??? Well, the garage has a fair chance of burning down!!!! (No joke!!!). I am to DIY what you are to "NeuroLinguistic Programming" (advertising!!!). We'll get someone in!!! 3 wires? Multiple choice then? I have a 1 in 27 chance of getting it right (and, as "the boss" will tell you, a 26 out of 27 chance of screwing it up!!!!). Don't like the odds! Looks really good mind! How someone who's 6ft 5 ins instals Velux windows is beyond me!!!!
Well done Simon, I'm sure you will succeed.
I'm well on the way to taking the old one down now. Track to recover and then hack away at the hills. Cheers
I think your solution is going to work well enough to keep it comfortable most of the time. Are you going to have seating up there when you are done? Where does the mini bar go? 🍺 Just joking. 🤣 The foam that is popular in the US is extruded polystyrene which does not leave much of a mess when cut. When we glued our foam to board, we used wood glue and it worked great. Nice progress, and looking forward to more updates!
The mini bar goes under the board near the controllers. Ice machine next to it. I've got a tv that goes on the wall above the fiddle yard and I'm going to sling a hammock between the rafters. That blue or sometimes purple foam board looks so easy to use. I've not seen it for sale over here. I'm struggling to find 1/2 inch soft board/ pin board. 20 years ago you could find it anywhere and now it's as rare as hens teeth. I'm going to have to drive to get it, cheaper for me to drive than them to deliver it. Latest update is I'm taking the old one down but struggling with the ballasted track. Going to the model shop today to ask about back scene as I don't want that to bubble up again. I'm sure they know more than me.
Hi Simon. Looks like you,ve been busy. Its also nice to see you in the light. Looking at that space that you are standing in I would struggle to fit. At 6'4" it would be a tight fit for me. A rooflight window is a good idea as it would throw in a lot more light. You,ve done well so far , keep up the good work. It won,t be long before we here the clickey clack again. Good luck fella. Regards.
The guy who did my velux was 6 foot 5. I asked him how do you get the tiles off and he just stood up. Not much space for me Brian and I'm a short arse. It's going well so far, I'm stripping the old layout but getting the track up is proving difficult. The chairs on flexi-track are so small and the rail just peels off the sleepers. I'll save some but not all. Thanks
@@ngaugeonashelf4417 Hi Simon , good morning. I don,t know what you stuck your track down with but if you used PVA then use warm water and it will soften the glue. Then use a wallpaper scraper to get under it. Yeah the height thing , well the minute I put any footwear on it pushes me up to 6'5" as well. Mind you I do a roaring trade in the supermarket " excuse me can you reach that for me ". I only do it for the ladies so you would be out of luck my friend ha ha.
@@BrianSanders-tn7pi Brian, I used track pins, ballast and then ballast bond. I have employed a couple of wallpaper scrapers. Oh, while you're here. Can you just reach that off the top shelf? Anyway, how do you know I don't identify as a Lady? 🤣🤣🤣🤣
@@ngaugeonashelf4417 Ha ha. I think that the beard gives you away my friend. You can identify as what you like but in my eyes your a bloke. Good one bud.
@@BrianSanders-tn7pi Not heard of the bearded lady at the circus? I've just been taking down some of the old layout and it's so hot in the bedroom I've given up for today. Fortunately the typical english summer will return and it will be much cooler next week. I think the only painful bit is the canal boats have sunk into the 'water' so much I'm not going to be able to get them out. Damn.
Minitrix 9Fs alongside other minitrix engines have a lot of character
They really pull well too. I think it would go up the stairs if I laid track. Cheers
I have one in green livery. Superb little runner,quiet and smooth. It’s the smallest loco I have because my layout doesn’t like 0-4-0’s and 0-6-0’s. Too many dead frogs catch them out unless they’re doing warp speeds. This one has many pickups so not a problem.
I have a green one too. Bought it a little later. I love the 2MT, nice little loco. I agree about tanks, they don't like points at all. I'm not DCC (can't afford it) so dead frogs are an issue. I saw a guy on OO gauge trimming the plastic to reduce the dead bit, not sure we can do that with N. Just have to put up with it or try and find a way of wiring in the first coach to pick up from those wheels. That's given me a thought as Dapol coaches have pick ups for the lighting bars. Maybe when I have nothing to do this winter.
Hi Simon. Backscenes: I don't know how you smoothed out bubbles when you used self-adhesive one, but I suspect you just used a cloth, which probably contributed to the stretching of the backscene. If you don't already have one, I suggest getting a printer's roller, but don't press too hard. Using a "wet" adhesive is likely to cause a backscene to stretch just as much, if not more, thana self-adhesive one. I'm sure you already know this, but you will need to let the loft's temperature acclimatise to the rest of the house before you determine whether the insulation is doing its job. Good luck with it!
Hello Paul, I smoothed out with a very technical device - my thumb. I'm trying to figure out why it let go in the first place and the answer I keep coming back to is I used 5mm ply which isn't really that flat. I wonder if I use 5mm MDF which is smooth it will be better? What I will be doing is talking to Cheltenham Model Centre when I get to the point of buying some. There are some guys in there who will know the answer. It's quite nice up there now, especially as summer has decided to leave us and I now have a window to let the hot air out. You'll see in a couple of videos. I've stretched the budget quite a bit though. Cheers
Hi Simon. I have both the green and blue livery variants - beautiful!
Hello Paul, I've seen plenty of green ones before, first time seeing blue and I had to have it. Blue is a boys thing I think. Having said that he had a maroon Duchess and it was hard to choose between the 2. Hopefully he will be at the Lydney show in September and I can correct that.
The best running n gauge locos I have, (Bachmann) both have tender drive wheels with the motor in it.
I don't mind tender drive, Hornby have been doing it for years. Now N gauge motors are smaller and better no reson not to do it at all. But that damn shft drive to the loco doesn't really work. It's trying to fix a problem that doesn't exist. I've since been told if the shaft is not located correctly or has flash on it or the 2 sockets have flash on them the loco will derail. That isn't good. Cheers
I thought I was watching David Bellamy 😇 reporting about creepy crawlies 🐛 from the Amazon 👀 Hopefully the Sauna is under control 🤞 and the dog 🐕 has stopped licking your leg 🦵 🤣🤣🤣🤣 Very best wishes from the Emerald Isle ☘️
It was full off filth. Everytime I came downstairs my hair (what little is left) was full of it. It's night and day different now. It's almost a room. I think the dog was liking the salt - I was saturated. Fortunately the British summer has come to my aid and it's nice a cool now. Plus with the window I can spy on my neighbours.
Neighbour watch 👀 sounds like an idea 💡 for a new TV 📺 show 🤭
@@Wickford_N_Gauge I'll get arrested if I'm not careful!
Hi Simon! Some good progress made in the loft, especially in this heat! Reading the other comments I see that you've already got the insulation installed, along with a window! That'll definitely help! My train room, which is still my office, is in a south facing upstairs bedroom, and it regularly hits temperatures of over 30C in the summer, which is definitely too hot to work in! Your loft must be much hotter than that, so I've got my fingers crossed that your heat reduction techniques will work! I'm already looking forward to the next update! All the best, Ian.
Ian, it is very cool today up there. I popped up to see how it was briefly. Of course it's helped by the British weather! That bedroom I'm in is the same, gets the afternoon sun and can be very hot in there after work. Especially as I can't reach the window over the baord and back scene........ great planning! The best thing about it is it is now clean instead of all the filth hanging down. It's very easy to see why 22 years ago it failed. This time will be better. A lot better. Cheers
Hi Simon, in old roofs they didn't have cross tresses like to day, they had pearling's which supported the roof timbers and the supports were vertical so they didn't impinge on the roof space so much. Unfortunately they needed some skill and woodworking knowledge to fit, rather than a crane and a hammer. Since you have got this far, would it take much to fit pearling's and do away with cross braces? Keep smiling. Ron
Ron the old roofs were wonderful empty spaces. Even my 5 foot 5 is a little cramped in there. Well it's too late to do anything about changing the timbers and I'm not entirely sure how to go about it. But you may change your mind when you see later videos. It is well developed now and you may be surprised at the transformation. In fact it's time to start taking the old one down to use the material on it. Boxes and bubble wrap in hand I'll be starting tomorrow night very slowly.
Hi Simon. I used to hate going up into my loft in the summer. Remember you said that you have a ventilation pipe for an old heating system going up through your loft. I don,t know what your loft looks like but is there a way of using that pipe to give you better cooling ? Obviously it will need to be able to be shut in the winter. There's got to be a waybof reducing the heat up there. The heat will do a fair bit of damage to anything plastic. As for building and signal footprints I always use a bit of balsa wood to bring it up to the right height, and its easy to ballast. I am a very tall fella at 6'4" so I don,t have a problem reaching things generally. But you will have to consider accessibility. I hope that the insulation helps you but it will affect you in that you will not be able to tolerate the heat, thus affecting your running time. Good luck to you my friend, I hope that it works. Regards.
Hello Brian, you should see the room now. Not sure about the old gas fire exhaust. I chose to leave it alone in the end and had a window put in instead. That helps. Should be warmer in winter but most of all the room is now clean. I think next weeks video will be a startling difference. Cheers
Hi Simon, Exciting times!! The insulation will pay dividends in winter for sure. I was commenting on Ron's channel that we live in ovens, once the heat gets into the building it transmits inside too. Mind you I think you'll get best use outside of the summer months (er ... Weeks, no er ... days, er .... day) Did I read that you have put a window in? I'm sure that will help. Conversely be worth thinking about a blind for it. Most of the time you won't be up there but the sunlight will discolour everything in its path. Great opportunity to build the layout you always wanted. Good luck!!
Hello David, it is now in a very different state to what you see here and yes there is a window in to help with a through draft. Although since it has been fitted the sun has not shown it's face. It is very different and now very clean. I have given myself the very best chance of success. It's easy to see why I failed last time I was up there. My Dad died and I looked after Mum and didn't go near it for years and it ended up corroded and covered in filth from off the underside of the roof. Cheers
@@ngaugeonashelf4417 Sounds great look forward to seeing the progress.
@@davidberlanny3308 I will be packing up from tomorrow, got to be careful and recover as much as possible. I can see me laying track come the end of September with a fair wind. Got to get some soft board delivered first. Thanks David.
@@ngaugeonashelf4417 Hi Simon, I think I owe you a dislocated elbow anecdote but before that your "packing up" reminded of me of moving our dublo. At one time we had the O gauge and the dublo in the main part of the loft but as both expanded we decided to move the dublo into a smaller side loft. After preparing the base boards we ran a short cantilever section over the new baseboards and used the dublo crane to lower some of the track and stock. We filmed it too, using a windup clockwork cinema camera (no sound). Pretty sure I have it on a VHS or DVD. Alas times change the dublo track has been lifted leaving a clean baseboard below marking the old route, like a GWR fencepost, it's only at this moment you realise how much dirt accumulates over the years!! Good luck with the move!!
@@davidberlanny3308 David if yu don't mind I'll skip the elbow story. I cannot imagine how painful that was. Lots are not the place for railways. They are a large space but you have to spend so much to get them into a clean space like a room below. I'm having fun though. Cheers
Hi Simon, i cannot stress enough how the environment in the loft has to like another room in your house otherwise you will simply not bother going in there after a while. I have been in my loft here in Aus on a 38 degree day and it was 51 degrees in the loft, luckily i was only in there for 10 minutes. Very good to hear all the improvements you want to make, i think that desire applies to all modelers, nothing is perfect i guess. All the best.
You will have to wait to see what it looks like now. The insulation does not keep all the heat out but it should keep the heat in in winter. I think I've knocked off the 2 extremes but also it's now clean. Plus I had a window fitted for the draft which works. There maybe some days it's too hot still but I think I've solved most of the problems. Touch wood!
Great stuff. Those pre formed “W” trusses are a sodding nuisance, rendering the biggest room of the house more or less unusable. I have them in my loft and gave up on the idea of having my layout up there 🙁. Good luck pushing forward with your new project. 👊🏻
They are awful and thrown up and warped too. When I was measuring I was quite shocked at how bad they were. It is possible to have a layout, I hope the next 2 videos will at least give you the option of revisiting the idea. But it's not cheap either. If I had a garage I would take the door off and put a wall and window in. That would be so much better and probably cost the same. Cheers
Hi Simon. Gosh your brave going in the loft this weather !. Ah ! the curse of the trussed roof always makes things more difficult. Good to see you making progress though Pete
Hello Pete, it's a bit more hospitable now 3 weeks later. Brave or stupid? 😂 The trusses are awful but that's the way they make them now. Could use a little more head room too even for a shorty like me. I've just had a 6 foot 5 workman in and it looked like he was in a toy room.
This is the update from you I have been wanting to see! I like the "old guys rule" shirt. 😎 I'm sure you will be glad to get that insulation in. Just imagine if you were in Texas. I agree with you on accessibility. You definitely need to be able to reach and maintain every part of the layout. Our backdrop is currently just sky blue, but we plan on adding clouds and some other things as well. We are NOT artists. I have seen some great easy techniques for clouds though. We are about to do some water on our layout. Check of the KZread channel Marklin of Sweden. I honestly think his water looks the most natural and is cheap to do. Great update on this project.
Got to have an old guys rule shirt. I think I've got 8 or 9! The insulation is in and the lighting and it looks so much better plus cleaner. My last effort got absolutely filthy in the loft. No wonder it failed. It does still get hot up there but not as bad. The winter it should be warmer with no drafts and I added a window for ventilation and to get some air moving. I still haven't made up my mind about a back scene. A tin of light blue paint is very cheap but not quite hills and greenery. I'm going to ask in the model shop about why my back scene might of bubbled up and then I will make up my mind. I'll check out that channel, thankyou.