ply?

[Anonymous]

I'm almost done building the benchwork for my new elevated layout, I've always just used 1/4" plywood for my subroadbed, but I would like to hear any suggestions on different materials based on wieght, cost, utility, or any other advantages you can think of for different bases.

[johncolley]

1/2" is better, 3/4" is better yet. Spacers/ risers can be further apart 16" to 24" without any drooping between them. Put cork or your favorite roadbed between that and the tracks for quiet running.

[Anonymous]

2" foam is much lighter weight, and very strong if supported properly. There probably is not much of a cost savings over 3/4" ply, but "your milage may vary". Layers of foam can be used to create elevation changes and other landforms/features.

Andrew

[Anonymous]

If you have 1/4 left over, laminate it to form half. Thinner plywood can sag so be wary of it.

[cwclark]

I use 3/4 plywood and cork roadbed...I cut it 2 3/8" wide...it's so stiff that i never have to worry about the subroad bed sagging...

[CBQ_Guy]

QUOTE: Originally posted by johncolley

1/2" is better, 3/4" is better yet. Spacers/ risers can be further apart 16" to 24" without any drooping between them. Put cork or your favorite roadbed between that and the tracks for quiet running.

And 1" is better still!

!/2" is just fine...
(Never heard of plywood drooping before. Joists must be too far apart.)