Track road bed

My suggestion would be to look into Manton Industrial cork products. When constructing my layout I purchased the cork in 100 square foot rolls (4’x25’x1/4”) and used templates to cut out the roadbed. Very reasonable compared to other options, and easy to cut with a #11 blade.

Good luck with your build, Mike

I used vinylbed in my prior layout and they went out of business so this time around I didn't know what to use.   I was lucky enough to purchase items on the Buy/Sell board and met the person to pick up.  He was moving cross country and had several boxes of Midwest Cork roadbed he hoped I buy for pennies on a dollar.  I did and am quite happy with it.

-Greg

@Boeingman posted:

ROOKIE!  So, any advice is great.  Large layout 13' X34'  benchwork is coming soon.  Then I have to get the board on top.  Then track work.  Thanks

Before you put the board on top put all your bus and/or star wiring runs in place as it's much easier to do without having to duck under the top of your layout!

I would also set up wiring docking stations at various points to support accessories/lighting.  This way you run 1 common/1 hot from your transformer and then shorter runs from the docking station to your accessories/lights.  Like this:

-Greg

A number of folks are not so big on it, but I have had tremendous success with the WS foam stuff. It could not be easier to apply and it blends in perfectly with the background. I can cut it without any issue and there is never any dust. And it does not dry out. I use it with Atlas track and I am a very happy camper. I always thought sound deadening is best accomplished by putting a layer of foam insulation or a number of other approaches between the wood table and the floor that it sits on. I've been using WS for almost 20 years, and the HO equivalent for years before that when I was a lot younger.

The cork is the old standard'.  However, I used a combination of Cork, Regular foam board, and WS black rubber foam.  They all will insulate sound to some degree.  In reality, I found the foam board to be the most quiet.  If you are going to elevate any area by using WS Styrofoam incline strips, that also eliminates quite a bit of sound, especially if you have foam, cork, or FB on top of that material.... 

You have a ways to go yet before you get to this point.  I would try the different materials on a stretch of 36" track and see which one you like best.  Remember, there is no right or wrong way.  It's your railroad', Use what makes you happy'......

Ok, I have a question in regards to foam on top of my 1/2” plywood. Can anyone show me or elaborate on this product? I take it that this goes over entire plywood area, then I put my roadbed down and track. Just need some guidance here. Thank you to all for helping. It’s time to unbox the collection and start running.

I am still trying to get my head around why   you feal the need for foam over plywood? You dont need the plywood!, with 2" foam you only need to have it attached to a wood frame work!

Bob,  By far, the most common benchwork deck material is 1/2" plywood entirely topped with 1/2" homasote (fiber board) then, roadbed (cork, vinyl, foam) under the track.  There are many, many threads/posts on this subject.  Here is a recent one...

Type and Color Paint for lower level, homasote

I have a section with only foam on framing and its nosier than where there's wood under it. This is using tubular track.

Structurally there's no issue.

I’m just throwing out a suggestion on foam roadbed. I actually just received my second order yesterday from sparks00033 on eBay. After researching many threads on this topic, I discovered that it was highly recommended from numerous members over the years. The price point it also very appealing compared to others. Great product that’s really easy to work with. The seller also will send you a FREE SAMPLE if you’d like. Just send them a message prior. Best of luck with your build!

@Dennis-LaRock posted:

Bob,  By far, the most common benchwork deck material is 1/2" plywood entirely topped with 1/2" homasote (fiber board) then, roadbed (cork, vinyl, foam) under the track.  There are many, many threads/posts on this subject.

... many, many, many, many, many ...

Mike

@Richizzle07 posted:

I’m just throwing out a suggestion on foam roadbed. I actually just received my second order yesterday from sparks00033 on eBay. After researching many threads on this topic, I discovered that it was highly recommended from numerous members over the years. The price point it also very appealing compared to others. Great product that’s really easy to work with. The seller also will send you a FREE SAMPLE if you’d like. Just send them a message prior. Best of luck with your build!

I second this recommendation. Here's a switch pad  I made for a #7.5 Atlas.

Guys: Don't forget there is a new homabed supplier for O. Website is https://www.cwhomaroad.com/ His products mimic the old Cascade Supply Company homasote and the prices look very competitive. I plan to order a bunch later in the year when my new garage/workshop is completed.

Pete

I just think it is hard to beat Midwest cork roadbed.