Weathering Level Crossings On Model Railway Layouts

December 30, 2006

Model Railroad level crossings definitely look too clean when taken out of the packaging. However, sometimes level crossings on model railway layouts also give the appearance of being “over weathered”. So what is the answer?

Try to apply a small amount of dark wash (a watered down black) only to the hinge and connecting rod areas of the gates. On a prototype railway level crossing they are the parts that are greased regularly and so it be right to assume that they would generally appear greasy.

Over weathering can make the gates look simply “grimy” and “uncared for”. This also can be a pleasing effect in older freight yards etc.