Woodland Scenics Foam? Help!

I have not used on my o scale layout yet, but I used it on my n scale layout and the stuff works really nice. It is super simple and no thought needed. However, it is a bit pricey for some foam.

I use the foam roadbed and like it very much.  Very easy to lay and even to remove later on, if necessary.  I have not used the inclines, so can't help there.

 Woodland Scenics Subterrain foam roadbed or foam incline/decline sets? 

 

Peter, the woodland scenics is great but remember for both applications there needs to be "foundation" this is critical to short/longterm performance without morphing

Thanks to those who've responded. I've got the basics done. The benchwork is open grid and I have half inch plywood covering it. Was going to use homasote on top and cut into plywood/homasote to cookie cut. Then did more research and am thinking of instead laying plywood right on joists (instead of "floating" it on traditional risers/cleats) and using WS 4" foam riser sets and WS incline/decline sets for grades. Just really looking for inputs and all opinions (pros/cons) on WS foam roadbed and inclines/declines sets.

I have used a ton of it, but not in the traditional way.

Since, wood and I do not get along, and I have the carpentry skills of an elephant, I use the plastic modular shelving that Lowes and Home Depot sell.

It has open grid work for threading wires and it is strong.

I then place the woodland scenics foam however I need it.

My use of plywood is limited to placing pre-cut sheets on top of the plastic shelving as it adheres better to the foam.

I do not use any nails on the plywood as that is glued to the plastic shelves using Woodland Scenics glue. That glue is strong, doesnt require much, and is forgiving if you have to take it apart. In fact, I dont nail my track as the woodland scenics glue is better.

Being that my layout is on the 2nd floor the lightweight plastic is a god send.

I am using the incline/decline sets and foam pieces to add depth of terrain to my layout. So far it's been working great. I attached a couple pics from early on in the project.

Tim C.

CNJ Rail - Thanks SO much for these photos.  They really help.  Is it safe to say that this system has worked well for your needs? 

 

Also, just curious - it looks like your switch machines are on inclines.  This is my first time ever building a "real layout" with inclines/declines, and I've got a lot of book and on-line knowledge at this point - so forgive my probably stupid question:  according to what I've read, switches should be installed on perfectly flat terrain to ensure they function properly.  So really curious to know your real-life exeprience.

 

Forumites - I really appreciate all the feedback on WS's subterrain system.  There haven't been a ton of responses, so should I read this as some people not having good experiences and preferring to just not say anything or...?     

 

Thanks again to all for your valued help.

 

Peter

 

This stuff (especially risers) is kind of pricey (even when considering it replaces the cost of homasote).  WS doesn't offer a bulk discount unless you're buying enough to basically buying miles of it to build a real railroad (not a short line, either!).  Anyone know where to get the best prices on it?

 

Thanks again.

 

 

 

Tim,

 

I could be wrong, but looking at the middle photo you've provided, it really looks like there are two right curving lines on foam inclines heading up toward (and into) your main line.  And where they meet, each has a switch.  Are you saying the switches are flat but not horizontally level or ...? 

 

Thanks very much.

 

Peter

 

CJN Rail

 

Did you have to use two sets of inliners/risers next to each other, so the o gauge track could fit and leave enough room for ballast? Because ws doesn't make an o gauge riser/incline. I am thinking of doing something like you. I just wanted to know how it is working for you?

 

Mike

Mike,

I hot glued 1/2" foam to both sides of the risers and inclines. That gave me the exact width I needed for the foam roadbed I used along with the ballast I will be using.

Look close at the 3rd photo. You should be able to see the foam.

Tim

Yes I see what your saying.

 

Thanks Tim

Has anyone tried this with FasTrack? With a measured width of around 3 5/16" width, I'm guessing you'd have to get two sets to go side by side?

CNJ Rail, it looks very sturdy.  The foam side panels must add a lot of strength.  I assume you glue those panels to the riser.

 

Have you operated any heavy die cast large steam over it?  If not, do you think that there is sufficient strength to handle that kind of equipment?

 

I have wanted to try that system.  It seems like a great solution.

 

Peter - thanks for asking the question. 

I am in the process of installing the risers. Except its been very cold in the breezeway of my house And with me going through another heart surgery in December I 'll wait till spring. I do have a heater but haven't started it up this year.  So hear are some photos of the area I'm building. Sorry for the blurry photos

 

Scot,

The riser work is looking great!

Feel better soon and think Spring and warm weather!

Tim C.