Hi

I am about to start constructing the layout board for a new HO layout using C track. I was intending to use ply with a 3mm sound mat on top to deaden the sound, and build from there, screwing the track down once all tested etc.

However, I wondered if I should use a 20mm close cell sheet material on the ply, and build up from there. Using this would allow me to easily create cut outs for rivers etc. However if I did this I was unsure as to how best to fix down the track as I dont think that the screws would grip properly into the close cell sheet material.

Suggestions and advise gratefully received.

Thanks

Alex

I can't comment on holding down C track. But anything to have scenery below track level is a resource often overlooked.

Hello Alex,
I have a multi-track layout with 4 sides 2.6m x 3.2 metres using all C track.

As the previous post from hess says, the screws transmit noise to timber.
It is like the amplification in a violin or guitar regardless of underlay.
My layout is NOT SCREWED down at all and performs wonderfully well - with only the SWISHING of wheels on rail.
See my example at Softly Softly

regards
Kimball

most people use window sealant how ever it can not be painted if you are using PVA it will work ok all depends on how shiny your undelay is. I use hot glue on track joints about every 5 section very sparingly not forgetting to glue underlay to base if you are fussy about track preservation it works best and is adequate enough. for a moor permanent fix ballast between the track's than PVA water mix. if noise is a problem test small section's of track with different underlays before committing all the best any problems send massage

hess

Thanks Kimball I will try that this weekend

Alex

Hello Alex
Here C track user from France.
I use 10 mm thick plywood within a frame construction like this

Under this approach using Märklin screws makes that no significant noise is created especially once you have added landscaping
All my locos are with sound but trimmed to a low level
I guess, the point is to avoid a large plywood surface acting like a drum.
Using a foam or cork bed makes that the rail surface may make waves instead of being straight.
Here is the result (sound-wise) on a finished layout

All this is true except with very old locos like my CCS800 or DL800 or G800 but the noise is coming from a very heavy and noisy loco.
Cheers

Jean

Hi Alex
My layout is L-shaped 3.5 m x 4 m so it is medium size, but on 3 levels so you may have 26 to 28 locos, or trains simultaneously
Glad you like it (I do too )
Cheers
Jean