Custom Benchwork
Benchwork built to your exact space and needs. From plywood to running track - let us help you build your dream.
With experience in over 100 custom layout projects, we understand that every model railroad layout is unique. Whether your project is modest or expansive, your layout reflects your personal style, and our mission is to bring your ideas to life.
There are many reasons to consider MRB for your project, but we believe the most important is the time you’ll save. Building benchwork can take months, and unless woodworking is a passion of yours, we know you’d rather spend that time on the aspects of model railroading you enjoy most—like modeling trains, kitbashing structures, or planning scenery.
We provide a seamless solution that allows you to focus on the parts of the hobby you love, while we handle the professional construction of your benchwork off-site to keep your space clean.
Modular Construction
We construct each layout in modular sections at our workshop, which not only keeps your layout space free of sawdust and ensures quick setup. The modular design also means your layout can be safely moved if needed, providing flexibility for the future.
Projects of any Size
Your layout will be custom-built to fit your available space based on either your plans, or designs created with our track planning service. We cater to projects of all sizes, ensuring each one meets your specific needs.
Affordable Pricing
While the cost of each project varies based on its complexity and specific requirements, most layouts average between $35-$50 per square foot per deck. Simpler designs without curved benchwork or multiple decks will generally fall on the lower end of this spectrum, while more intricate projects will be on the higher end. To get a more accurate estimate, feel free to call or email us—we’re happy to discuss your project in detail.
What’s Included?
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Benchwork precisely built to your specified shape.
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Subroadbed installed and set to proper grades and clearances.
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A 1:1 print of your track plan secured to the subroadbed (where possible) to assist in track placement.
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Customization based on your specific requests (within reason).
Other Benchwork Projects to Complete Your Train Room or Layout
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Slide-Outs
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Radius Templates
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Train Storage Drawers
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Cabinet Faces
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Cabinet Base Construction
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N-Track Modules (minimum of 10 modules)
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Work Stations
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Drop-Downs
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Lift-Outs
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Helixes (coming soon; requires additional space for a CNC machine)
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Control Panels
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Waffle Bottom Skins for added stiffness
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Furniture-Grade Finishes
Track & Wiring
Ready to have your trains running? MRB can take it a step further, from plywood to running trains, our Track & Wiring quotes include:
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Installation of cork.
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Track installation for any scale.
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Bus wiring setup.
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Switch machine installation.
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Switch panel installation.
Extras
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Wood or aluminum backdrop installation.
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Fascia installation.
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Project painting or staining.
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Additional custom features as requested.
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Wiring diagrams, schematics, and/or documentation (can be expensive).
MRB only offers Track & Wiring services with the purchase of our custom benchwork.
Shipping
While shipping is a separate fee from custom benchwork contracts, we work hard to keep these costs as low as possible. Based in Central Florida, MRB benefits from proximity to several shipping hubs, which helps minimize expenses. Most layouts can be shipped anywhere in the mainland United States for under $1,500, with locations west of the Rockies typically averaging $2,000. We’re happy to provide a detailed quote upon request.
In-Person Delivery and Installation
For those who prefer a more hands-on approach, we can arrange in-person delivery and installation anywhere in the US. In many cases, we can deliver and install your layout for the same cost as freight shipping. Layouts with Track & Wiring quotes will include delivery and installation as part of their contract.
Installation Time
For layouts that we deliver and install, we include 4-8 hours of installation time free of charge, depending on the overall size of the project. Additional installation hours are billed at $50 per hour per installer.