I see that many who post here use 1/4" hardboard (Masonite) for backdrops. In my area (DeKalb, IL) 1/8" is readily available. Are there any argument for/against the thinner material? Are screws likely to tear out if countersunk? Thanks in advance.

We are building a medium size HO layout in a 15'x25' room.  However, a loop of the track must run out of the train room and around a gas forced air furnace.  In the event that the furnace needs replacement/repair down the road it is likely prudent that about 75% of the roadbed around the furnace can be removable.  Any suggestions how this can be best accomplished? Thx in advance for your suggestions.

Eric

Engineering class was many years ago. I want to have open grid benchwork made of 1x4 with a 1/2 inch plywood top. What is the maximum span that it will not sag when supported at the ends only. I am assuming 4 feet would be OK as I see many modules built this way that measure 2 feet by 4 feet and have legs at each end. I would like to make a module that is 1 foot by 6 feet and have it supported only at each end. Should I go to 1x6 material?

Any structural engineers out there?

GregW66

So this evening has been spent redesigning the layouts fascia control panels.  The previous design was done in Microsoft Excel to try and use the cells as a guide to get the panels the same and I'm quite proficient with doing neat little tricks with it too.