what is the best type of roadbed for n scale?

[Anonymous]

i was looking at roadbed for my new layout and i saw a bunch of companys and kinds what is the best one to go with?

[pbjwilson]

I like cork. Its been around a long time, looks good even before ballasting, easy to work with. I've also used the woodland scenics foam. It works fine also. I'm old school and like the cork.

[Adelie]

This "battle" seems to go on every few days. I have both on my construction project right now. Woodland Scenics is quieter and can be had in different sizes, including 24' rolls. Cork is generally "firmer" and can be a little cheaper.

I think I like the foam better, but not substantially more. It is probably the 24' rolls that lean me in that direction.

Either one works pretty well with a minimum amount of effort. Caulk seems to be the adhesive of choice for foam, Liquid Nails or Elmer's white glue work fine for cork.

[Scotterr]

Check out AMI's Instant Roadbed - it is a butyl Rubber product that comes in rolls and is very easily formed. It adheres well directly to plywood and is great for roadways as well. Check out their website. I built an entire 8 x 14 N scale layout with this material

[jim2272]

I'm having a problem with planning my 48"x75" N scale layout. I have 2" blue extruded foam. I'm going to use AMI roadbed. Both construction designs are to cut down on noise. So far, as long as the straight lines go, I have no problem. I want to superelevate the 11" curves. I've heard that glue underneath the roadbed will make the roadbed resonate sounds. Is there any type of adhesive that is sound deading? Am I going to have to surform the 2' foam on the curves? I don't want to use any adhesives - just the stick'm that is on the AMI roadbed.

[Anonymous]

I have been using the cork for years. It seems to bend easier than the foam for tight curves