Garden train modelling (commonly referred to as G scale railroads or Garden Scale railroads) is becoming increasingly popular because it combines the realism of model trains within a natural environment. Some garden layouts are complete with buildings, people and tiny plants, whilst others have a track winding through a whole large garden area.
G scale model trains are larger than 0 scale (1:48) but smaller than the trains that are large enough to ride on. G scale, is approximately 1:24 (varying from 1:19 to 1:32, actually). Most large-scale trains run on No 1 gauge track (45mm between the rails). They are ideal for garden settings and because they are large they are generally hard to derail. Some people also run O-scale (1:48) Lionel trains outdoors.
With a railroad layout being outdoors, you are dealing with real life. Trees are growing living plants, mountains are made of dirt, rivers are made of water, rocks are made of stone. And, they are exposed to the weather!
Careful planning is important to ensure that your railroad operates efficiently and stands the test of time. When choosing a location for a garden railroad - question whether or not it is secure. You don't want any harm to come to your gardenset-up or model trains.
Assuming you are happy with any security issues, then check to see how level the proposed site is. Will you have to dig out parts of the garden to make it level (or maybe bring in additional earth). Will you need to build retaining walls for your garden railroad layout?
Will the garden railroad fit in with an a existing garden layout, or will the garden need to be redesigned to fit with the garden railroad? Are there things in the way like fences, clotheslines, dog kennels, buildings, paths, or swimming pools y that will need to be removed and what can be worked around?
For more information on G scale model railroading go on over to
http://www.bestmodeltrainguide.com/g-scale-trains visit
http://www.bestmodeltrainguide.com. Have a good look around while you are there.