Modeling Information
Benchwork is the term given to the structural assembly that supports the model railroad layout.
In 3.4 Benchwork I identified that in Lynn Westcotts authoritative work How to build Model Railroad
Benchwork, he identifies two ways to frame the railroad layout and three
ways to support the track.
In this page we will discuss the second of the two elements of benchwork construction: Lattice framing (also called L-Girder framing)
Modeling Information
An 
L-Girder consists of two components, the girder and the flange.
The girder size is often based on the span between legs. The flange is nominally a 1x2.
L-Girder Material List
Since I was recycling lumber I had two L-Girder Sizes: 1"x3" and 1"x4" both with a 1"x2" flange. New L-Girder construction was 1"x4" girder with a 1"x3"flange.
If you are doing this from scratch, I would suggest standardizing on the 1"x4"girder with whatever sized flange you prefer For me, the wider flange gives me more options for securing my sections to the benchwork.
Dimensional lumber was the standard material for L-Girder construction.
- Depending on the size and location of the layout determined the degree of warpage encountered.
- Defects (knots and edge of trunk cuts) were common and hand selecting lumber at the distributor was a reality.
- Ease of cutting.
Today, the price of dimentional lumber compared with plywood suggests that plywood is the superior product.
- Plywood is being used for dimensional stability. It uses multiple plies which are glued with water resistant glues
- Lack of defects
- Cutting
at distributors such as Lowes and Home Depot is available, and
inexpensive compared to a home owned table saw and the effort to measure
and cut multiple pieces.
Plywood largely overcomes the warping issue of solid lumber, albeit at the expense of alternative edge joining techniques.
Screws don’t hold as well in the edges of plywood compared to solid lumber.
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