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In planning a new 12x15 HO layout,  I decided to use 2" foam over ½" plywood until today.  I researched expanded polystyrene only to find they come in different densities.  Owens (pink) markets "FOAMULAR 150" and 250.  The difference is density and compressive strength.  I presume the measure is in weight per cubic foot, 1.5 lbs vs 2.5 lbs.  In any event, the 150 at my local Home Depot in 4x8 1" sheets is $11.60 a sheet.Homasote is a brand name product for fiber board.   My Home Depot carries Georgia Pacific "Stedi-R" exterior sheathing. A 4x8 ½" sheet is $4.50.The compressive strength and lateral stability of the Stedi-R (Homasote) was twice that of the 150 foam.  The 150 would not be suitable, in my opinion, for layout construction.  It's too soft.  I imagine that a 2" sheet of 250 foam would be stronger and more rigid as well as more costly.From my fact finding mission, I have decided to go with the sheathing (Homasote) over plywood and skip the foam.
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