roadbed

streettrains · February 9, 2004, 6:34pm

what is the best roadbed to use? Iam leaning toward’s AMI… have worked with cork, but AMI looks better… any advice?

nfmisso · February 9, 2004, 7:14pm

I like Woodland Scenics foam, much better than cork. I have heard others say that AMI is much better than cork also. I have not heard any comparison of WS vs AMI from anyone who has used both.

Advice: do not use cork.

IRONROOSTER · February 9, 2004, 7:48pm

I think its partly a preference thing. I’ve always used cork and have been pleased with it. But it probably is worth trying others to find what works best for you. One of the things I like about cork is I can take a suraform plane (spelling is probably wrong) and smooth out the joints as well as ease any bumps and dips. Of course being in S scale does limit my choices.
Enjoy
Paul

Anonymous · February 9, 2004, 8:32pm

I used cork a had no problems at all.

mls1621 · February 10, 2004, 9:08am

I was leaning toward the AMI too. The only reason i didn’t use it had to do with the order of events on my layout. I don’t want to ballast till all the scenery is finished and I was concerned that the roadbed would cure over time and lose the sticky surface for holding ballast. As it turns out, I was wrong.

I used it for a display track and it works wonderfully. I’ve also used it for roads and parking lots. I model in N scale, HO roadbed is perfect for two lane roads in N scale.

I used cork for my track bed and am kicking myself now. The instant roadbed works great. Go with it you won’t be sorry.

dave9999 · February 10, 2004, 1:08pm

Hi Nigel,
I have use both and there is nothing wrong with either. I only prefer AMI because of the time factor. The WS foambed, of course, has a longer dry time. With the AMI, it’s press and go. On the ther hand the WS foambed has a more uniformed look and you don’t have to make the taper along the edges. So it’s apples and oranges. And I love apples AND oranges. Dave

Anonymous · February 10, 2004, 1:22pm

I’ve used the Woodland Scenic and cork and like the WS much better. Easier to cut and shape. I also do not need to paint it. My ballast is grey and it blends well. Noise has not been a factor either.

RMax

dave9999 · February 10, 2004, 2:03pm

RMax,
Thanks for reminding me. The WS foambed is less noisy than the AMI. Dave

DSchmitt · February 10, 2004, 2:42pm

I use 1/2 width HO cork under each mainline track in N scale. I have played around with AMI on a 2 sq ft board and will use it for an O scale layout I am planning.