I think one of the most discouraging things about a layout is the sheer time it takes to build one.  In this day of instant access to almost everything via the internet, building a layout is a long, drawn out process.  Whether its dull (or parts of it are dull) is up to you.  

At one end of the layout my Free-mo module is connected as part of an industrial park.   In order to work this area, the switcher needed a small tail track.   However, I didn't want this extending into the main part of the room where the kids play, and eventually something (or someone) whacking into it.   So I built a small drop down leaf and mounted it with a hinge.    In the "up" position, a simple bolt/washer/nut combination keeps it in place.   I need to get a small hook and eyelet to hold it back in the down position.

Currently working on the design for an auto plant on my HO layout.   The space available varies from 2 feet wide at the narrow end up to 3 feet wide at the other end.   Total length is 26 feet, although a portion of that is eaten up by a turnback curve on the narrow end so it works out to about 24 feet of straight track.

One thing I can not determine for sure is the handling of the 89foot boxcars.   As most know, the ones with 8 doors went to GM plants while the 4 door went to Ford and Chrysler.   But why did the door differences matter?

I was down in the basement tonight staring at my fascia.   It was pretty easy to put up.   I used the standard 1/8 masonite, mounted smooth side out.   The color was easy enough since I matched the local Free-mo standards (my layout is built to Free-mo height standards so I can use my freemo module as part of the layout).   But I mounted it with bright silver screws.   Something I just happen to have on hand.