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Homasote is compressed paper board. I have not seen anything exactly like it. A sheet made from compressed paper, wood fiber, wax, tar or what ever is sometimes used for the exterior sheeting of houses and is an inferior product when compared to Homasote. Home Depot carried it for a short period of time in Canada but it was intended as a floor underlay. If you can not get the real stuff stay away. Ceiling tiles tend to crumble, holds nails poorly and gets soggy when wet. Yes, hard board is a generic name for Masonite. The use of MDF or chipboard or particle board has had mixed reviews as roadbed. In order to maintain a smooth grade, these materials require much more support (shorter span). In time they will sage and the roadbed will take on a roller coaster appearance. Spend the extra and use plywood. Cutting Homasote is a challenge. I have used utilty knifes and the arm strong method. It is not nearly as messy but it is slow. I like the idea of going outside and using the shop vacum. Also consider wearing a dust mask while cutting.
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