Lighting????

[rayman14085]

I am remodeling my basement for my future Model Railroad, I am at the stage for lighting. I need to get rid of the 3 lightbulbs with pull strings. I am thinking of using cans, 2 in a 6 foot section. 2 for every 48" for a total of 12 cans in a 25' section. Or I can just put up fluorescent shop lights. Any suggestion what my best way to go would be?

 

[GrampysTrains]

Hi rayman: My first attempt at lighting was 60W bulbs in ceramic fixtures, spaced about 32" apart, with a few 4' fluorescents for work lights. But the bulbs put out way too much heat, and I used the 4 footers just inside a valance for all my layout lighting. That's what worked for me. DJ.

 

[Irongrave]

4' fluorescent are good lighting for a model railroad, lots of light not a huge amount of heat or energy usage when compared to normal bulbs, also you can get different color temperatures in the bulbs to get more of a sunlight feel

 

[kenw]

For general working light, flourescent tubes are a good way to go. But there will be times when a more directional light is preferred to simulate sunrise/set; that's when bulbs are best. And with bulbs you can use a dimmer for added effects.

I did my smaller layout room in halogen tracklights, they're perfect for photography and effects, but they are brutally hot. A few FL tubes would be a good match in my case; definitely get daylight-type.

 

[jeffrey-wimberly]

If you decide to go with the fluorescent tubes use the 'Daylight' bulbs. The regular fluorescent tubes will wash out the colors of your scenery and your layout won't look as good as it would otherwise. Take it from someone who's been there. Spend the extra money and get the good bulbs. I did and I haven't looked back. I'm using the 'Daylight' 27 watt CF bulbs now and they work great! By the way, the 27 watt CF is equivalent to a 100 watt incandescent bulb.

 

[RexHea]

I also use a combination of fluorescent and halogens. Halogens hot?? You better believe it. I even turn them on for heat during the winter . I suggest using track lighting (with halogen or standard floods) around the layout along with fluorescent fixtures. This will give you freedom to flood an area and be able to move or adjust as you desire. My fluorescent are on by themselves 90% of the time for work or just general running, but I use all lights during Op sessions or show-Off times. Yes indeed, get the Daylight bulbs for the fluorescent. I went from Cool White to Daylight and man, what a difference

 

[UP2CSX]

I agree with the comments on fluorescents for general lighting. However, having at least one set of track lights over the layout allows you to spot light the inevitable dark areas and throw some more light for photos. I don't know if you're in the position to do a drop ceiling, but it not only makes the lighting less intrusive but it also helps keep dust off the layout.