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Introducing Roadbed <- Benchwork & Track <- Home  Introducing RoadbedRecommended Books:
Roadbed
First, choose the type of roadbed you want. You can skip this part
if you wish, but most modelers prefer the sound deadening qualities and the
realistic appearance that roadbed provides. Roadbed is an underlayment
between the track and the plywood surface.
There are many different types of roadbed available, but the most
widely used is cork roadbed. It is usually sold is strips 3 feet long, and
is made for a specific scale. The following is how to install roadbed:
- Mark the layout plan on the plywood. Be sure to be as accurate as
possible in this step.
- The best way of doing this is by using the track pieces themselves.
- The roadbed should split down the middle, at an angle. Split the
pieces, and place the pieces side by side with the angled edges
on the outsides.
- Lay a bead of white glue, and place the roadbed over the plan. (It
is helpful if you tack or pin the pieces to keep them from moving, but
these don't have to be permanent)
- For turnouts, you need to cut the pieces to fit.
- Lightly sand the tops of the roadbed to ensure a smooth surface
for track, when the glue dries.
- As a tip, paint the cork with latex paint to seal it. This will keep it from drying out and cracking. This, however, is an entirely optional step.
| Cork |
Rubber |
Homasote |
| Cheap and readily
available |
Easy to use- stick and
go |
Longest lasting;
quiet |
| May dry out |
Expensive and permanent |
Hard to install,
permanent |
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