Seal the cork?

Model Railroader Layouts and layout building
1

Hi, all…

I’m new to the layout biz. I built structures for a long time and now I’ve actually got some track laid. I’m finding out just how much I don’t know!

I’m using a hollow core door as a base with sheet cork glued to the surface. I’ll be attaching the track to the cork with caulk of some kind. Here’s the question: Before you apply scenic cement, or thinned white glue, or matte medium to attach the ballast, do you have to seal the cork? Will the cork absorb the water-based glue and swell?

Thanks in advance for any and all replies!

Bruce J.

2

Pre-sealing the cork isn’t neccessary unless you live in the desert and the layout is exposed to high temps and is in danger of drying out. In normal house conditions, once you add ballast/ground cover and glue, it will be sealed.