The frequently asked questions are divided into three sections:
Can I see in advance what to expect from a kit?
Almost all kits have a manual. This manual is always provided for free (in PDF format) on the relevant product page. Scroll down the product page to find a light blue clickable tekst under the white word "Attachments". There you can download the manual.
I want my own house in model. Can Markenburg do that?
Yes, we can. If you want Markenburg to develop a house/property, please send us as many photographs as possible * and also instructions to info@markenburg.nl. Do not forget to mention your name, and the desired scale in the e-mail. When large amounts of data are to be transmitted free and easy, please use we transfer. Based on the information submitted, we make you an offer.
* The higher the resolution of the pictures, the better. 8 megapixels or more a picture is preferable.
I ride a different scale than 1:160 scale (N). What are the options?
The scales 1:87 (H0) and 1:160 (N) and somtetimes even 1:220 (Z) can be ordered directly in the Markenburg shop. On each product page is the possibility to make a choice by pressing on the light grey scale selection. For other scales, such as: 1:50, 1:100, 1:120 (TT) 1:200 1:220 (Z) 1:450 (T), you can always ask about prices by e-mailing info@markenburg.nl.
How do I keep up with Markenburg developments?
You can find Markenburg at Facebook. (Mainly Dutch language). Do you not have a Facebook account? Don’t worry. You can also sign up for the Markenburg newsletter (both in Dutch and English language). This is sent by e-mail about four times a year to all newsletter subscribers. Also opt out of this service is easy and without any obligations. If you like to enter into dialogue with the team of Markenburg, the N-scale forum is probably a nice medium. Because through that channel, we like to keep you informed (mainly Dutch language). And by the Markenburg frontpage you can find articles in which we write about several things under which interesting building techniques, inspirational diorama's/layouts and also new developments and products.
I want to know how big a house is, but I only see 1:160 (N) scale sizes.
We provide the minimum dimensions 1:160 (N) and 1:87 (HO) for all the products in our range. These can be found in the blue square on every productpage. If the sizes in the desired scale are not mentioned there, it is possible that the product is currently not available in the desired scale. Converting measurements, for example H0, is possible and relatively easy because we always keep our products neatly to scale. Calculation example: N scale 10mm. 10mm x 160/87 = 18.39mm in H0.
I would like to hold and feel a Markenburg product before I buy it.
No problem. Markenburg is available at various fairs where we would love to speak to you. At fairs you can see our products, touch them and even smell them if you like.
I am looking for:
I saw a nice house, but I want the windowframes in a different color. Is that possible?
Yes, definitely. Many parts can be supplied in various colors. Send an email with your ideas / questions to info@markenburg.nl, and then we will together take a look at the opportunities. Many of the color changes can even be processed free of charge.
Can I see in advance what to expect from a kit?
Almost all kits have a manual. This manual is always provided for free (in PDF format) on the relevant product page. Scroll down the product page to find a light gray button with the word "download". There you can download the manual.
Where do I enter my coupon code?
A discount code, for example from a Markenburg voucher, is to be used after you dropped something in the shopping cart and there on the green button "to pay" is pressed. In the main screen may then be selected for "overview". At the bottom of the list there is room for filling in the code.
How do I know that my coupon code works?
When the correct code is entered and added ("add" button), the effect of the code is visible immediately. This can be seen in the table that is directly above the input field of the code.
How will my order be shipped?
The Markenburg shop has a couple of shipping options which can be chosen from.
Will I be kept informed of the order status?
Yes, you will be informed by e-mail of the order status. For example when your payment is received in good order, or when we start producing your order. At the time your order is shipped you will also receive a message. If you let your order send by registered or insured mail, you will of course also receive the additional track & trace code.
Which glue do I use to put a Markenburg kit together?
Markenburg recommends using ordinary undiluted wood glue, which is being sold in many stores. In the manual of the Markenburg kits there are tips about how to apply the glue in the right dose at the various components.
Can I secure the "glass" in the kit with wood glue as well?
Yes you can. The undiluted wood glue naturally adheres slightly less firm on the "glass", but more than enough to keep the glass in place. The glass is in the most cases not a structural part of the kit, so that the force which is exerted on the glue connection is also small.
I want to paint or “polute” my Markenburg house. Is that possible?
Markenburg products are made from a durable type of cardboard. That means they are sensitive for larger amounts of moisture. Think of a glass of water or large amounts of diluted glue. But a thin layer of spray paint, or a tip watercolor treating detail is possible. The art lies in dosing and working with small amounts of moisture. Powders are of course always safe.
How do I put frames as straight as possible in / behind the facade?
On every frame an outer line is located at the front. This is exactly the same size as the hole in the wall. Apply some (fresh *) undiluted woord adhesive on the back side of the wall opening, or in the adhesive edge of the window frame. Place the frame as properly as possible in one go in the right place on the wall. Don’t press yet. Turn the wall plate so you look from the outside at the frame. Position the frame carefully, and when it is properly aligned, the frame can be pressed against the wall. From that point the wall and the frame are firmly connected with each other.
* A fresh drop of glue gives some extra time when aligning components, because the glue has not dried yet.
What can I do if I have a damaged item?
E-mail us a picture of what has been damaged or broken to info@markenburg.nl. Then we can see which parts you mean. We can supply almost all parts for a fair price.
I would like to paint my 3D element.
The feel of the 3D elements naturally is a little greasy. This can partly be solved by rinsing the part in warm / hot water with some detergent, liquid hand soap or any all purpose cleaner. Although the greasy feeling will never go away completely, it is always advisable to still rinse the part before painting it. After rinsing, allow the part to dry completely before (spray)painting it. Painting is best done with an airbrush or spray. Apply very thin layers, each of which must dry properly before a possible next layer will be applied. Please do not try to add an opaque layer at once.
I would like to add some finishing touches to my 3D element. Is that possible?
Yes you can. The material is easy to cut and abrase (with a very sharp hobby knife or very fine sanding paper). If you want to cut your 3D element, please keep in mind that tiny bits can fly off because the material is quite hard and tough.
How can I best paste 3D parts?
Ordinary wood glue is fine to use for building Markenburg products. This also applies in general to 3D parts. For 3D parts, general adhesive can also be used. The use of plastic adhesive is not recommended, especially not at the joining of 3D parts with cardboard parts. Be sparing with the use of glue for the best result.
Caution! Do not use harsh detergents or solvents. This may cause deformation of the 3D object as a result.
I want to bend my 3D element a little. Is that possible?
You can bend 3D element slightly. The 3D component can be placed in a hot water bath with a maximum temperature of about 80 degrees Celsius (it is advisable to use water at about 60 degrees Celsius). Depending on the thickness and stiffness, keep the part submerged for about 5 to 15 minutes. Because of the heat the material will be flexible when it’s really warm. Bend the part gently to avoid breakage. In order to maintain the correct shape, the 3D part must cool down to room temperature in the desired curved shape. When the 3D part is back at room temperature, it will remain in that shape until you firmly warm it up again and is being bent.