Homosote

[Anonymous]

Model Railroaders have been using Homosote for many years and usually successfully.It works best when used as a subroadbed. I have had several 4X8 sheets of Homosote cut into strips and use the following method. I take the full sheet(s) to a cabinet makers shop. We agree on a price to cut the sheet(s) into 8'X1-7/8" strips. The reason for the 1-7/8" width is that this guarantees no waste except for the width of the saw blade which is 1/8". This procedure provides 24 8'X1-7/8" strips per 4X8 sheet of Homosote. The cabinet shop saw also provides an accurate and constant width for all pieces.

I kerf one edge of the Homosote strip to the center of the strip. Space the kerfs 1 inch apart for the portion of the strip you need to curve.Gently force the Homosote into the necessary curve. Glue the Homosote to whatever you are using as a base for your subroadbed being sure to either clamp the Homosote securily and/or use wights to insure the Homosote is in full contact with the base. Sand the top of the Homosote and seal. You are now ready to lay cork roadbed or track.

[steffd]

I agree that it work best as sub-roadbed. I know several modelers who lay track directly on the Homosote and I am one of them or used to be that is. Although it works great on straight sections as on my 12’ yard, I find it uneven in curves and somewhat inconsistent especially if not sanded correctly and it also requires additional effort to install.

I have since opted for Styrofoam risers and cork and cork directly on the plywood. I find it offers a much smoother surface and does not dampen the sound any less than Homosote and is much more user friendly to bend into uniform curves and S-curves and adheres more evenly. Also, I must admit that I found it to be a pain to have to try and located or special order Homosote from the lumberyard and then have them cut it into strips or sections and then haul it back home not to mention the mess and dust it creates when you cut or sand it. I guess it’s a matter of preference and on the application. I have used both and they both serve their purpose.

Stephan

[Anonymous]

I've used precut homasote roadbed in the past with good results. I'm currently working on a new layout, and plan to use 'homabed' from Cal-Roadbed. They offer precut lengths in either straight sections or curved, in a variety of thicknesses (for branchline or mainline service) and also two different angles of edge bevel (45* industry standard, or 60* which looks more prototypical) and they also have precut switch pads for all the major manufacturers of switches. You can purchase the homabed in packages of all straight, all curved, 50/50 mixed, in boxes of either 8' total length, or 48' total length. Most of the 48' packages range in price from $39-$60 depending on what options you want (branchline with 60* bevel for instance).

I plan to lay the homabed directly to the plywood tops of my layout, like I've done before. It also offers very good sound deadening, much like cork.

Just my $0.02