Securing and wiring an upper level.

Tranquil Hollow RROGR Forum Member SUPPORTING MEMBER

Hi folks, I began installing an upper level which consists of 3/4” foam board and a 1/4” of luan glued to the underside; both sides have been painted. Currently I have 2x4 blocks for temporary support at a height of 10”. The two larger pieces are 5’x4’ followed by a 3’x3’ piece. This level will hold Christmas structures from Lemax and Dept. 56. There will be a trolley loop with no connection to the main level. My questions are 1. What are the recommendations for securing it to the main level? and 2. How to hide the wiring? Any additional insights will also be greatly appreciated.
Thanks,

Jay

5/7/235:51 PM

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FabbDaddOGR Forum Member DIGITAL SUBSCRIBER

Hello Jay,

Wood is always more secure but if you have extra foam you can use it. I have used 3/4" foam for the perimeter and inside bracing for my upper level. I secured it to the lower level with pins and hot glue. The foam instead of wood allows me to use a hot iron pen to create a brick wall or any style of wall. I never buy prefabricated retaining walls. Too expensive. As far as hiding the wires I used small wire clips hot glued to the underside of the upper level and route them to the inner sides of the walls. I have pics of my Christmas layout which I'll post when I find them. Hope this helps. Have fun with your build.

FabbDadd

5/19/2311:30 PM

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Tranquil Hollow RROGR Forum Member SUPPORTING MEMBER

Thank you Fabbdadd for responding and sharing your insights. I will be using your ideas.

Jay

5/20/2311:14 AM

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FabbDaddOGR Forum Member DIGITAL SUBSCRIBER

I found a few pics of my Christmas layout using Styrofoam and other craft materials. As you can see on the right side is the upper level. It supported quite a number of buildings. This is on a 5x9 Ping Pong table.