How to Build a Model Train Bridge

If you are into model trains and want to add some character to your model train layout, you may want to consider adding a train bridge. Not only is this an excellent way to give your train collection a little bit of pizzazz, but it is also a great way to present your skill as well.

There are many different types of materials from which your train bridge can be built, and the type of material that you decide to use will all depend on how much weight the bridge is going to have to carry. Adding a bridge will also give you a chance to add more features to your layout such as ponds, rivers, streets, schools ect. In addition you will also gain a world or knowledge, and after you have built your first bridge, you will be ready to tackle some larger projects as well.

Before you get ready to start construction on your new bridge, you will first have to figure out how wide and long you want your bridge to be. After you have made the decision, you will need to start out by building a base for the tracks. Keep in mind that your base will need to be strong enough to support the trains and the landscape, as well as any landscaping that you have decided to add to your surrounding layout. What this simply means is the bigger the train, the stronger the wood. Most people opt to use 2×4’s for a project of this magnitude.

The next thing that you will need to do is build your basic box and cover it with plywood, after which you will move on to building your arches. In order to accomplish this, you will need to decide precisely what size you want, and how many arches you are going to use. You will also need to decide if you want your train to pass through the arches as well. The next order of business is to place your arches along your structure, being careful to make sure that you place them evenly throughout. After that you will need to secure two pieces of foam core.

Place the pattern that you want onto the top sheet of foam and cut it out. This process will be a whole lot easier if you cut both pieces at the same time, and will also help you to make sure that the cuts are evenly cut. After the necessary pieces have been cut, your next order of business is to glue them to the track bed. Make sure that you give the glue sufficient time to dry. After this step has been completed, turn the bed upside down so that you can easily access the bottom of the train bridge if you need to.

Now you are ready to move on to the installation of your supports. It is suggested that these be installed between each of the arches in order to provide strength to the bridge itself. Pieces of foam are perfect for this step, just make sure that you cut the pieces so that they will fit together snugly.

After you have checked to make sure that you have a level fit across the bottom of the bridge, you will be able to move on to the process of gluing them carefully into place. The outside of your project can also be decorated at this time as well.

Last but not lease, cover your train bridge with whatever decorations you would like to add. Some people will decide to go with a couple of brick designs which can be made by printing out some brick shaped designs and painting them to look like bricks, or they can be painted directly on the foam if you so decide.