Using Rubber Maid storage shelves for benchwork.

This is a very interesting idea but I'd still want to add a couple of L-girders lengthwise and some cross pieces just to give a bit more rigidity to the layout surface.  Plus, as it is now, you'll have trouble adding any wiring under the layout in the areas where the shelving is in contact with the plywood.

Dale

Wiring could be a problem. Warpage of the top. If nothing is secure, top etc. may move when you lean against it.

How strong and stable will this be?

If you're using them for a temporary layout,  I guess it would be okay,  but otherwise fuggedaboudit.

I'd add another set in the middle to equal the two at either end and then wrap 1" X 4" pine boards around the entire perimeter of the layout at the center shelf divider height with some self-tapping screws to prevent the shelving and layout from moving around.

The plywood sheet can move around on top of the shelving, so I'd also add a non-slip rubber pad on top of each shelf.

I use these shelves for box storage and I can tell you that they can tilt and bend if excessive weight is placed on them, especially if it is not distributed evenly.

There was a YouTube showing exactly that type of deck support. In that case, it was a #1 Gauge layout set up on those plastic shelves sold at the "Orange Logo" Big Box store. It was four sections of 4x8 half-inch plywood mounted on bases made from three of the five shelf components. I'm assuming that the extra parts could be used to make more bases. After seeing the video, I gave some thought to using that same technique for deck support, but I would rather reinforce the deck with framing and just use the shelves for legs. The added bonus is you have instant under-layout storage and the cost of the shelves is probably lower than the cost of building wood legs and shelves under the layout.

I would not put any engines or rolling stock on the track that is worth more than 50 bucks.

Since that photo was I have added another section in the middle for additional support. Also the 3/4" plywood is fastened to the support shelves from the bottom going thru the plastic into the wood using #10 wood screws. I have not had any problems with the wiring process or with any warpage. I must mention that the layout is in our house with controlled temp and minimum humidity, being in Southern California. I would not recommend using this process in a garage layout where you have expanding and contracting.

There was an article in a magazine that shall not be named where a temporary Christmas layout was supported by five large storage tubs.  additional benefit was that the tubs were used for storage in the off season.

If I ever move, I have considered using those white folding tables as my bench work.  Wiring would have to be well planned, to minimize drilling. JohnA

I used the ones from orange box store for a narrow gauge On30 shelf. Worked fine, no problems. I secured them together with 1x2s.

They are strong and stable. The storage is added bonus.

@Jeffery Boat, I have used the HD version of this shelf for about twelve years in my apartment. It is perfect for your use. Wiring is easy as through the spacing and I have found NO issues whatsoever. Full steam ahead.

John

@John A posted:

If I ever move, I have considered using those white folding tables as my bench work.  Wiring would have to be well planned, to minimize drilling. JohnA

I use tables.  I had drywall in basement so I put that on top.  I only drill thru drywall.   When I screw track down I make sure a couple make it thru the table.

There is always room for new ideas.The surface area to lay the table on is a bonus. Plus time to lay the framing is nothing.

Bill

I have engines and rolling stock on the layout worth a lot  more than 50 bucks! Thanks for your concern.

I use Rubbermaid storage shelves to hold up my home brewing supplies.

if it is going to be in the garage look for videos on people that built hoists to raise and lower the layout.  Then put the shelves on wheels to support the layout and store trains when not in use.