Would 3/8" OSB be good for a layout base? Layout will be two 2x4 foot modules using open-grid type benchwork and joists every 16 inches with rigid foam scenery base and either flex track with cork roadbed or (prefered) hand laid track on Homasote spline/ Homabed roadbed.
I have heard good things and bad things about the use of OSB, but it wasn't really scale specific or construction specific (foam scenery, plaster, et. al.). I would like to use what I have.
Most people use regular plywood rather than OSB. OSB is much more subjected to warpage than plywood, though not as bad as particle board.
The benchwork is the foundation of your layout - it pays off to choose the right kind of material for it. After all, a layout is a sizable investment which needs to be protected.
I have 14 Modules that I have used the 7/16 inch OSB on them and several are 5 or 6 years old now - with no problems
The key is to have the frame with cross joists at 16 inch or less
AND
Paint the OSB!
I also use OSB on my current home layout and have a 2000 sqft area with multiple leverls of trackwork - so there is a lot of OSB in the benchwork.
Again all of the benchwork has the joists on 16 centers and the OSB is painted!
Some parts of my home layout are 10 years old now - in an unheated basement!
BOB H - Clarion, PA