Roadbed/Track-Bed™

Good track-work is important to the successful operation of your model railroad. Quality roadbed and track-bed products ensure a quiet, efficient operation within a realistic setting. Woodland Scenics provides you with economical track-bed tested for performance, realistic ballast colors and grades and the adhesives and accessories needed to put it all together.

Track-Bed^™

Economical, high quality track bed available in Rolls, Strips, Sheets, and Super Sheets. Compatible with O, N and HO scales.
Frequently Asked Questions
- I am wondering why the O scale Track-Bed is wider than the foam inclines and risers. Am I missing something?
  
  When modeling in O scale, Inclines and Risers need to be placed side-by-side to double their width.
- I am interested in your Track-Bed. Is it black, dark gray or light gray?
  
  The Track-Bed is a dark gray.
- What is the best way to attach Track-Bed?
  
  For a strong bond, rough-up the bottom of Track-Bed™ with 80-grit sandpaper and attach using the contact method, working in small, manageable sections.
  
  Contact Method - Apply Foam Tack Glue™ to both surfaces, allow to set for approximately 20 minutes, but no longer than 1 hour, until tacky, then apply.
  
  Click here to view a video on installing Track-Bed.
- How are turnout switches attached to Risers under Track-Bed?
  
  Cut out a section of Riser where the under table switches will be located. Use 1/4" piece of Foam Sheet, Masonite or plywood to bridge the gap. Notch each end of the Riser to accomodate thickness of material. Material should be level with Riser. Glue into place and mount the switch.
- What is the best method for laying out Track-Bed for placement on my layout?
  
  Lay out Track-Bed™ in one piece. Accommodate tight curves by separating the Track-Bed into two narrow strips along the slit that runs lengthwise. Lay the two pieces seperately, butting them snuggly in the middle. Do this by first drawing a center line for your track. Lay each half strip of Track-Bed on either side along this center line.
  
  Click here to view a video on installing Track-Bed.
- Is the Track-Bed solvent resistant?
  
  Yes, Track-Bed is solvent resistant.
- Why is Track-Bed better than cork?
  
  Track-Bed® absorbs the noise and vibration of train operations, so you can enjoy the true "clickety-clack" sound. Track-Bed costs less, does not require pre-soaking, and is easy to apply. It will not dry out, crack and crumble like cork. Since Track-Bed is compatible and aligns easily with cork, you can update your cork bed at any time.
- Can your Track-Bed be used with any brand of track and on any layout?
  
  Yes, our Track-Bed™ works great on any type layout with any kind of track of a standard width. For larger scales, consider using Track-Bed Sheets.
- What are the HO scale track measurements from rail to rail, and also tie to tie.
  
  NMRA standards note minimum and maximum values, instead of limits, for Prototype HO (1:87) track.
  
  Measurements (inside rail to inside rail)
  
  Minimum 16.48 mm
  
  Maximum 16.84 mm
  
  There are no NMRA standards for ties.
  
  If you are not concerned about NMRA standards, below are general measurements.
  
  HO Track
  
  Approximately 16.5 mm from inside rail to inside rail.
  
  Ties
  
  Real World (HO scale)
  
  Length: 102" (1.17" / 29.6 mm)
  
  Width: 9" (0.103" / 2.6 mm)
  
  Height: 7" (0.08" / 2 mm)
  
  Center-to-Center Spacing: 19.5"-21" (0.22"-0.24" / 5.6 mm-6.1) mm
- What is the difference between O and On30 scale? What scale track, risers and TrackBed are compatible?
  
  The "n" stands for narrow. On30 describes the modeling of narrow gauge railways, using O scale trains with narrow tracks that run on HO gauge track. For your On30, you can use SubTerrain Risers and Track-Bed.
- Is it easier to use the rolls of Track-Bed or the strips?
  
  It really is the users preference, both are easy to use. Generally speaking, Track-Bed Rolls are easier to use when modeling a larger layout with a lot of straightaways and standard curves. Track-Bed Strips are easier to use when modeling a smaller layout with a lot of sharp curves and turnouts.
- After I have glued the Track-Bed to my table top and it dries, can I use plastic screws to further secure my track to the Track-Bed?
  
  We do not manufacture plastic screws and have never tested their usage. This is how we recommend you attach track to your Track-Bed.
  
  We recommend using Foam Tack Glue. Sand surface of Track-Bed with 120-grit sandpaper, then spread a thin layer of glue over the Track-Bed surface and install track. Pin in place with Foam Nails while drying.
- How do I attach Track and Track-Bed to my layout?
  
  We recommend using Foam Tack Glue to attach Track-Bed and Track to a layout.
  
  There are different application methods for attaching Track-Bed to your layout depending on the base material.
  
  Plaster surfaces: Spread a thin, even layer of Foam Tack Glue where Track-Bed will be installed. Lay Track-Bed and pin in place with Foam Nails to secure while drying. Work in two to three-foot sections. This application method also allows the modeler to make adjustments while installing Track-Bed.
  
  A permanent application method for plaster and other surfaces: Use the Contact Gluing Method. Apply Foam Tack Glue to both contact surfaces. Let dry until clear and tacky (maximum working time is 1 hour), and then press Track-Bed in place. Installation of Track-Bed has to be precise, because glue will bond instantly. Place Track-Bed in manageable sections.
  
  For both application methods, we recommend sanding the top and bottom surface of Track-Bed with 120-grit sandpaper before installation.
  
  To attach your track to the Track-Bed, spread a thin, even layer of Foam Tack Glue on top of the Track-Bed. Place pieces of track on glue and pin in place with Foam Nails to secure while drying.
  
  Click here to view a video on installing Track-Bed.
- Do you offer G scale Track-Bed?
  
  We do not offer G scale Track-Bed at this time. We recommend using HO/O scale Track-Bed Sheets or Super Sheets. They can be cut to size with a hobby knife or the Foam Knife.
  
  If desired, a beveled edge can be cut along the sides.
- What adhesive is the most suitable for securing Woodland Scenics trackbed to a painted or unpainted plywood surface?
  
  We recommend using Foam Tack Glue to adhere Track-Bed to a plywood base.
  
  If the plywood is painted, we suggest that you use 80 or 100 grit sandpaper to rough up the surface. This will give a tooth for the adhesive to hold on to. If the plywood isn't painted, you do not have to do this. To attach Track-Bed to a plywood base, use the contact gluing method. Apply adhesive to both contact surfaces and let dry until clear and tacky (maximum working time is one hour). When installing Track-Bed, the glue will bond instantly.
- What is the minimum radius for N, HO and O scale Track-Bed?
  
  The minimum turn radius for:
  
  N scale 9 1/2" - 9 3/4"
  
  HO scale 15"
  
  O scale 27"
- How do I apply track-bed along curves?
  
  Separate Track-Bed into two sections along the score line. Draw a centerline along the curve. Using the centerline as a guide, press Track-Bed sections in place separately, butting them snugly side-by-side.
  
  We recommend attaching Track-Bed with Foam Tack Glue.
  
  Click here to view a portion of a video demonstrating how to install Track-Bed along a curve.
- Is the HO Track-Bed (roadbed) compatible with OO track?
  
  HO Scale Track Bed (roadbed) is compatible with OO Gauge track.
- What are the ratios of the different scales?
  
  Model Scales
  
  G = 1:24
  
  O = 1:48
  
  S = 1:64
  
  OO = 1:76.2
  
  HO = 1:87
  
  N = 1:160
  
  Z = 1:220
- Can I use a Hot Wire Foam Cutter to cut my Track-Bed?
  
  No, do not cut the Track-Bed with a Hot Wire Foam Cutter. This may emit toxic fumes.
- When using the Foam Tack Glue on Track-Bed material, can it be removed safely in the future?
  
  Yes. Soften Foam Tack Glue with warm, soapy water. If the glue is difficult to remove, use denatured alcohol.
- I am using Track-Bed, and securing the track with Foam Tack Glue. Now, I need to move one of the tracks. How can I get the Foam Tack Glue to release?
  
  To remove Track-Bed™, soften the Foam Tack Glue™ with warm, soapy water. If the glue is hard to remove, use denature alcohol.
- How much Foam Tack Glue will I need when I lay my Track-Bed?
  
  N scale Track-Bed - 1/3 oz of Foam Tack Glue covers approximately 4 feet of N scale Track-Bed
  
  HO scale Track Bed - 1/3 oz of Foam Tack Glue covers approximately 2 feet of HO scale Track-Bed
  
  O scale Track Bed - 1/3 oz of Foam Tack Glue covers approximately 1 foot of O scale Track-Bed
  
  Super Sheets - 1 oz per Super Sheet. 1 bottle (12 fl oz) will do 12 Super Sheets.
  
  NOTE: Coverage is approximate. Exact coverage depends on thickness of application.
- Can I attach the pink extruded polystyrene sheet to the plywood with WS Foam Tack Glue and, can I attach the WS incline set as well as WS trackbed with the Foam Tack Glue to the polystyrene sheet?
  
  Foam Tack Glue can be used to attach plywood, Risers and Inclines/Declines, and Track-Bed to pink extruded foam, but it must first be sanded with #120-grit sandpaper. This type of foam has a slick surface that needs to be roughed up so the glue has something to hold on to.
  
  Use the contact gluing method to adhere materials to the extruded foam. Spread an even layer of Foam Tack Glue on both contact surfaces. Let the glue dry until clear (maximum working time is one hour) and then press surfaces together. The glue will bond instantly, creating a secure adhesion.
Ballast
Frequently Asked Questions
- Does your coal have any metallic or magnetic substances in it?
  
  No, our coal does not contain metal or magnetic substances of any kind.
- Generally, what is the difference between Ballast and Talus?
  
  Ballast is placed along the railroad track to model actual ballast that holds track in place.
  
  Talus is used to model rock debris under rock outcroppings, rocky hillsides or embankments.
- I am having a problem with the ballast adhering to the Track-Bed.
  
  You should have no problem adhering Ballast to your Track-Bed™ with this tested method.
  1. Pour Ballast over track. Brush from rails and tops of ties.
  
  2. Mist with Scenic Cement™ to wet the surface, and then saturate Ballast using an eyedropper or Scenic Sprayer™.
  
  3. Clean rails before use.
  
  Click here to view a demonstration of applying Ballast to track.
- Is your "ballast" real stone?
  
  No, our Ballast is not real stone.
- I wish to change the color and shade of some packets of ballast as I can not match any of your products to the color that I require. Could you please recommend the types of inks, dyes, paints or anything I could use to effect the changes that I need.
  
  We recommend using our Earth Colors Liquid Pigments (C1216-C1223, C1228, C1229) to dye Ballast.
  
  In a disposable plastic cup, add Ballast to desired color of pigment and mix thoroughly with a craft stick or paintbrush. If a lighter color is desired, dilute pigment with water. Let set until preferred color is achieved. Spread out Ballast on newspaper or paper towels and let dry.
- I am building the Grand Valley Layout Kit and the instructions say to use "wet water" with Ballast. On YouTube I found a Woodland video on how to adhere Ballast and it said not to use "wet water" or it will interfere with the adhesion. Which is correct?
  
  Both are correct. The Scenic Cement that is included with the Grand Valley Layout Kit is a concentrated formula and does not contain the wetting agent that regular Scenic Cement does. This is why the Grand Valley (and other Layout Kits) instructions state to mist Ballast with "wet water" before applying the Scenic Cement.
- I have started my layout. Should I ballast my track first?
  
  If there are tunnels on the layout, ballast track approximately 6” into the tunnels on both ends before enclosing them.
  
  Ballast the rest of the track after coloring rock castings with Earth Colors Liquid Pigment and applying Earth Colors Liquid Pigment-Earth Undercoat to the terrain.
  
  Add landscape materials to the layout after ballasting is completed.
  
  Click here to view a demonstration of applying Ballast to track.
- I want to Ballast my track. Can I put Scenic Glue over my Track-Bed to adhere it?
  
  We recommend using Scenic Cement™ rather than Scenic Glue™ because the Ballast will lay more evenly and be better secured.
  
  Apply Ballast onto track and brush from rails and top of ties. Mist adhesive over Ballast to wet the surface, and then saturate it for a strong bond using an eyedropper or the Scenic Sprayer™. Clean rails before use.
  
  Click here to view a demonstration of applying Ballast to track.
- I used Scenic Cement to apply my Ballast, and now I need to disassemble my layout and move it. How do I release the Ballast from the track?
  
  To remove Ballast from the track, soften the Scenic Cement™ with warm, soapy water. If the glue is hard to remove, use denatured alcohol.
Tools

Performance-tested tools and adhesive facilitate an easy and high-quality Track-Bed installation on your layout.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can your grading kits be used with the Lionel Fastrack? If so how do you secure the track to the foam?
  
  Yes. Risers and Inclines/Declines can be used with O gauge Lionel FasTrack. They will need to be placed side-by-side so they are wide enough to support the track.
  
  We recommend covering Risers and Inclines/Declines with Plaster Cloth prior to laying track. Attach the FasTrack to Plaster Cloth with Foam Tack Glue.
- After I have glued the Track-Bed to my table top and it dries, can I use plastic screws to further secure my track to the Track-Bed?
  
  We do not manufacture plastic screws and have never tested their usage. This is how we recommend you attach track to your Track-Bed.
  
  We recommend using Foam Tack Glue. Sand surface of Track-Bed with 120-grit sandpaper, then spread a thin layer of glue over the Track-Bed surface and install track. Pin in place with Foam Nails while drying.
- How do I attach Track and Track-Bed to my layout?
  
  We recommend using Foam Tack Glue to attach Track-Bed and Track to a layout.
  
  There are different application methods for attaching Track-Bed to your layout depending on the base material.
  
  Plaster surfaces: Spread a thin, even layer of Foam Tack Glue where Track-Bed will be installed. Lay Track-Bed and pin in place with Foam Nails to secure while drying. Work in two to three-foot sections. This application method also allows the modeler to make adjustments while installing Track-Bed.
  
  A permanent application method for plaster and other surfaces: Use the Contact Gluing Method. Apply Foam Tack Glue to both contact surfaces. Let dry until clear and tacky (maximum working time is 1 hour), and then press Track-Bed in place. Installation of Track-Bed has to be precise, because glue will bond instantly. Place Track-Bed in manageable sections.
  
  For both application methods, we recommend sanding the top and bottom surface of Track-Bed with 120-grit sandpaper before installation.
  
  To attach your track to the Track-Bed, spread a thin, even layer of Foam Tack Glue on top of the Track-Bed. Place pieces of track on glue and pin in place with Foam Nails to secure while drying.
  
  Click here to view a video on installing Track-Bed.
- How do I attach track to my Mod-U-Rail Layout Kit base?
  
  We recommend Foam Tack Glue for attaching track.
  
  Click here to view a demonstration of attaching track.
- What adhesive is the most suitable for securing Woodland Scenics trackbed to a painted or unpainted plywood surface?
  
  We recommend using Foam Tack Glue to adhere Track-Bed to a plywood base.
  
  If the plywood is painted, we suggest that you use 80 or 100 grit sandpaper to rough up the surface. This will give a tooth for the adhesive to hold on to. If the plywood isn't painted, you do not have to do this. To attach Track-Bed to a plywood base, use the contact gluing method. Apply adhesive to both contact surfaces and let dry until clear and tacky (maximum working time is one hour). When installing Track-Bed, the glue will bond instantly.
- How do I apply track-bed along curves?
  
  Separate Track-Bed into two sections along the score line. Draw a centerline along the curve. Using the centerline as a guide, press Track-Bed sections in place separately, butting them snugly side-by-side.
  
  We recommend attaching Track-Bed with Foam Tack Glue.
  
  Click here to view a portion of a video demonstrating how to install Track-Bed along a curve.
- When using the Foam Tack Glue on Track-Bed material, can it be removed safely in the future?
  
  Yes. Soften Foam Tack Glue with warm, soapy water. If the glue is difficult to remove, use denatured alcohol.
- I am using Track-Bed, and securing the track with Foam Tack Glue. Now, I need to move one of the tracks. How can I get the Foam Tack Glue to release?
  
  To remove Track-Bed™, soften the Foam Tack Glue™ with warm, soapy water. If the glue is hard to remove, use denature alcohol.
- How much Foam Tack Glue will I need when I lay my Track-Bed?
  
  N scale Track-Bed - 1/3 oz of Foam Tack Glue covers approximately 4 feet of N scale Track-Bed
  
  HO scale Track Bed - 1/3 oz of Foam Tack Glue covers approximately 2 feet of HO scale Track-Bed
  
  O scale Track Bed - 1/3 oz of Foam Tack Glue covers approximately 1 foot of O scale Track-Bed
  
  Super Sheets - 1 oz per Super Sheet. 1 bottle (12 fl oz) will do 12 Super Sheets.
  
  NOTE: Coverage is approximate. Exact coverage depends on thickness of application.
- I am doing a layout and planning on using your foam boards on top. Will the Foam Tack Glue work well to glue the cork trackbed in place?
  
  Yes, but we recommend attaching the cork roadbed using the contact gluing method. Apply Foam Tack Glue to the back of the cork roadbed and surface where it will be attached. Let the adhesive dry until clear (maximum working time, 1 hour). Press cork roadbed in place, glue will bond instantly.
- I have your Risers and Inclines. Would Foam Tack Glue or the Low Temp Glue Gun be best for adhering these?
  
  Both adhesives work equally well. Foam Tack Glue is high tack white glue and works well as a contact cement. Low Temp Foam Glue bonds instantly and works well for a quicker installation.
  
  Click here to learn about adhering SubTerrain.
- Can I attach the pink extruded polystyrene sheet to the plywood with WS Foam Tack Glue and, can I attach the WS incline set as well as WS trackbed with the Foam Tack Glue to the polystyrene sheet?
  
  Foam Tack Glue can be used to attach plywood, Risers and Inclines/Declines, and Track-Bed to pink extruded foam, but it must first be sanded with #120-grit sandpaper. This type of foam has a slick surface that needs to be roughed up so the glue has something to hold on to.
  
  Use the contact gluing method to adhere materials to the extruded foam. Spread an even layer of Foam Tack Glue on both contact surfaces. Let the glue dry until clear (maximum working time is one hour) and then press surfaces together. The glue will bond instantly, creating a secure adhesion.
- Will plaster castings stick to the Modeling Sheets using the Foam Tack Glue?
  
  Plaster castings can be attached to Modeling Sheets with Foam Tack Glue and the “contact gluing method.” Rough up the surface of the Modeling Sheet with #220-grit sandpaper and wet the back of the plaster casting with water. Apply Foam Tack Glue onto the Modeling Sheet and the back of the casting. Let set until the glue dries (maximum working time is one hour), and then press the surfaces together. The glue will bond instantly.

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Roadbed/Track-Bed™

Track-Bed™

Frequently Asked Questions

Ballast

Frequently Asked Questions

Tools

Frequently Asked Questions

Track-Bed^™