I have a 18X20 room in the basement that is under a step down family room, Because of it being under that step down, the ceiling is only 78 1/2" , and to make things worse, there is a heat duct running the length of the room that allows a mere 69" clearance under it. The duct runs almost in the middle of the room.
I prefer a table height in the 40+ range.

Any hints, ideas, suggestions on dealing with low ceilings?
(lower table, more lighting? ect....)

Just Dig down .. watch your footer but can be sone..

Can you build along the perimeter of the room? If so, you can then build a peninsula extending out underneath the duct. On top of this build a small mountain extending up to the duct. You would still need a duckunder on one end.
Another option would be to build your layout in the center of the room. You can then build a divider or mountain extending up to the duct. On this you can portray two different topograpies such as the Southwest/ Midwest. Anyway you go you will still have to duck under the duct work.
Can you relocate the heater duct? This is another option.($$$)
There are many books on layout building. Maybe your local library has a few. Your library will more than likely allow you to copy the pages you like. If you prefer checkout amazon. I like the library way. One does not have to purchase the book. Just a few ideas. I'm sure others will chime in with many more ideas.

quote:

Originally posted by George's Five & Dime Express:
build along the perimeter of the room...then you can then build a peninsula

My 14x34 attic train room is going to only have an 82" ceiling. The perimeter sections are going to be 2' wide. I have an 8x12 peninsula tucked in one corner. I understand preferring a 40" high top, but 32" looks like it will be the best fit for me.

Gilly

All the books say 40" or higher. I disagree, you have to build what's easiest for you to work on in the space you have available.IMHO I have an adjustable mechanics creeper for my down under work. I also have clear Christmas tree type lights under my layout. No one has to work in the dark with a flashlight....Let there be light. The more, the better.IMHO

I have the same problem. My layout is under the step down family room and I have 66" under my ductwork. I wrapped it with duct insulation to give it a bit of padding because I am 6'-3" and I know I will be bumping my head.



My room also has 2 furnaces, 2 water heaters, incoming water supply, central vac and the sewer cleanout. Digging down would be too much work, so I am going to have to live with it and wear a hard hat, I guess!
At least I have some room for a layout.

[QUOTE]Originally posted by George's Five & Dime Express:
Can you build along the perimeter of the room?

Yes I can.....

If so, you can then build a peninsula extending out underneath the duct. On top of this build a small mountain extending up to the duct. You would still need a duckunder on one end.

Peninsula is a great idea under the duct..........

Another option would be to build your layout in the center of the room. You can then build a divider or mountain extending up to the duct. On this you can portray two different topograpies such as the Southwest/ Midwest. Anyway you go you will still have to duck under the duct work.

Divider...good idea......

Can you relocate the heater duct?

Unfortunetly No.........

If the room is shallow in depth you simply have to live with it or dig...that will cost big bucks....

I wish you Good Luck.....

I can't tell you how many perfectly nice homes I've turned down because of inadequate basement design!

Jon

Hire midgets to work on your railroads, like on Willy Wonka Chocolate Factory movie? Sincerely Gary Phillips

My layout is in the only place I have to put it, the attic in my barn. I had to put the layout table @ 40" above the floor because of the ceiling, which starts @48" above the floor. It was a problem initially but i've learned how to deal with it. So can you.

quote:

Originally posted by Gary P:
Hire midgets to work on your railroads, like on Willy Wonka Chocolate Factory movie? Sincerely Gary Phillips

Now that's funny! Got a nice chuckle out of this one.

For sure, I would put table and track under the low part. That's a head banger for sure.
.....
Dennis