What Is The Best Board For A Train Layout?

Model train layouts are a popular hobby for enthusiasts of all ages. To build a model train layout, the first key decision is choosing the right board material for the base. The base serves as the foundation on which the landscape, tracks, structures, and scenery are built. There are several options for model train layout boards, each with their own pros and cons.

The most important factors in choosing a layout board are cost, weight, rigidity, ease of construction, and ability to hold scenery materials. Modelers need to evaluate their goals, space, and budget when selecting the optimal board for their train layout. This guide provides an overview of the most common types of boards used for model railroading, including their key characteristics.

Plywood

Plywood is one of the most common and affordable options for a model train layout board. Plywood has been used for decades by hobbyists looking to build a quality yet budget-friendly layout (Port of Virginia Virtual Museum, 1960). It can be purchased from any hardware store in a variety of sizes and thicknesses. Many modelers recommend using at least 3/4″ thick plywood for optimum strength and stability when constructing the layout base. When secured to a table or frame, plywood provides a smooth, flat surface for laying track and landscape elements.

The main advantage of using plywood is cost. A standard 4′ x 8′ sheet of 3/4″ plywood costs around $30-50 depending on the grade. Plywood allows hobbyists to build a large layout affordably. It’s easy to cut and shape using standard woodworking tools. Plywood also has decent strength and resistance to warping when properly sealed and supported. Many model railroad clubs and permanent layouts have used plywood effectively for decades.

Foam

Foam such as extruded polystyrene foam insulation panels are a popular choice for model train layouts. Foam is lightweight and easy to carve to create terrain features like mountains and valleys [1]. The lightweight nature of foam makes it easier to move sections of the layout. However, foam can warp over time which may cause problems with train operation and scenery materials pulling away from the foam. Gluing scenery materials securely to foam can be challenging. Foam thicknesses are limited compared to other base materials, with 2″ being the thickest commonly available. The lightweight foam provides less stability for structures and trackwork. Care must be taken to reinforce these areas.

Homosote

Homosote is a unique option made from recycled paper materials. It is comprised of recycled newspaper that has been pulped, compressed, and bonded together using natural lignin with no added chemicals or glues (Source: https://rebenok.cn.ua/proxy.php?request=http://465720213no67.%D0%B0%D1%94%D1%85%D1%86%D0%B0.%D1%80%D1%84). The result is an environmentally friendly, lightweight board with good sound deadening qualities thanks to its fiber composition.

The recycled material content gives Homosote some key advantages for model railroad and train layouts. It provides a realistic roadbed that absorbs sound well. It also has insulation properties that prevent electrical shorts. Many enthusiasts appreciate using a sustainable product like Homosote to construct their layouts.

Cork

Cork is a popular choice for model train layouts because of its excellent noise and vibration dampening properties. The cellular structure of cork absorbs sound and prevents vibrations from transferring to the table or base underneath the layout. This results in a smoother, quieter running train compared to other rigid surfaces.

According to Jelinek Cork Group®, cork sheets as thin as 3/16″ can provide significant vibration dampening for HO scale model trains. The cork pads act as a buffer between the track and hard surfaces, absorbing energy and preventing excess noise.

Cork’s natural shock-absorbing abilities make it ideal for reducing noise from trains, tracks, and turnouts. Modelers using cork roadbed often comment on how much quieter their layouts are compared to using other materials. The cork helps minimize noise transmission throughout the layout.

MDF

MDF or medium-density fiberboard is a popular choice for model train layouts due to its stable and smooth surface. MDF is an engineered wood product made by breaking down hardwood or softwood residuals into wood fibers which are then combined with wax and resin, pressed into sheets, and finished with melamine or laminate 1. The resulting boards are dense, uniform, and free of knots and grain patterns. This provides a perfectly flat surface for laying track and building scenery, allowing for smooth train operation without dips or bumps in the track 2. MDF also has excellent screw-holding ability, making it easy to attach track, structures, and other layout elements. The main downsides are that standard MDF can sag over time when used for large expanses, and the dust created when cutting it can be hazardous if inhaled. However, MDF is inexpensive, easy to work with using common woodworking tools, and can produce great results when used properly. Overall, it is one of the most versatile and cost-effective baseboard materials for model railroads.

Laminates

Laminate boards like formica provide a smooth, durable and moisture resistant surface for model train layouts. The plastic laminate surface is bonded to a substrate like particle board, making it sturdier than bare particle board alone. Laminate comes in a variety of colors and simulated wood grains for versatile design options.

Many modelers use laminate sheets on top of plywood or particle board to create a layout with an attractive, protective surface. The laminate surface resists scratches, stains and warping from moisture. It can easily be wiped clean as well. Laminate model railroad boards are available pre-made from various hobby shops, or can be custom created by applying laminate sheets to a substrate.

According to an article on Trains.com, laminated particle board is a popular choice for modular model railroad clubs because it provides a lightweight but sturdy foundation for layout modules (source). The laminate surface allows modules to be securely joined together while protecting the particle board edges from moisture damage.

Overall, laminates create durable,realistic and customizable surfaces for model train layouts. Their moisture resistance also makes them suitable for layouts that may be exposed to humidity.

Comparison

When deciding on the best board material for a model train layout, there are pros and cons to consider for each option:

Plywood is rigid and strong, but can warp over time. It also requires bracing underneath. Foam is lightweight and easy to carve scenery, but lacks strength for larger layouts. Homosote is soft and noise absorbing, but can sag under heavy loads. Cork is versatile and realistic looking, but more expensive. MDF is smooth and stable, but very heavy. Laminates like melamine provide a finished surface, but can be slippery for trains.

Overall, plywood and extruded foam boards like rigid insulation are two of the most popular choices. Plywood provides a sturdy base, while foam is great for scenery. Combining these two materials is a common approach – build the layout structure from plywood and carve hills/mountains from foam. This plays to the strengths of both materials.

Modularity

One popular option for model train layouts is using modular and interlocking boards that can be connected together or separated as needed. Modular layouts provide a number of benefits:

Flexibility – With modular sections, the layout can be reconfigured, expanded, or broken down for storage or transport. Modelers can start small and add boards over time.

Portability – Lightweight modules make it easy to transport a layout to shows, clubs, or friends’ homes. Sections can be carried individually and don’t require permanent installation.

Collaboration – Modelers can combine modules to create large layouts. Clubs often use a standard interface to connect members’ modules.

Realism – Modules can model specific scenes, industries, or geographic areas, then connect together into a larger realistic world.

Affordability – Building in sections spreads costs over time. Basic benchwork and track materials are inexpensive.

Entry Level – A beginner can start with a single module, then expand skills and the layout over time. Modularity has a low barrier to entry.

Standardization – Many modelers follow module standards for size, leg height, track placement, electrical, etc. This ensures compatibility between different builders’ modules.

Specialized Focus – Each module can focus on a special industry, era, technique, or geographic region that a modeler enjoys most.

For more information, see the detailed guide on building a modular model railroad at https://www.bouldercreekrailroad.com/build-a-modular-railroad.

Conclusion

When selecting the best board for a model train layout, it’s important to consider factors like cost, ease of use, noise dampening, and realism. Of all the options explored, cork board stands out as the best overall choice.

Cork is affordable and easy to work with using simple tools like pins and glue. It also does an excellent job reducing noise from the trains, creating a quieter layout. The textured surface resembles real rock formations, adding to the realism of the landscape. Cork is lightweight yet very durable over years of use. It can also be painted to match any terrain.

While no board is perfect, cork board balances all the key considerations very well. For its adaptability, sound dampening, realistic appearance, and reasonable cost, cork is hard to beat for model train enthusiasts looking to build the ideal layout board.