Track underlay

[PBoland]

I love the noise, https://youtu.be/s7z0tqKBVLM?si=iEN4JPHOy3GCBMwj
Started a new layout this February and the first test run, link above, is what I love. Different sounds over different parts of the layout, bridges, tunnels etc. Ballast can change the sound slightly.
Can’t beat a bit of clickety clack

[Walkingthedog]

Strange isn’t it, people want sound but not that sound. I only want that sound.

[Jsa274]

I love the noise, https://youtu.be/s7z0tqKBVLM?si=iEN4JPHOy3GCBMwj
Started a new layout this February and the first test run, link above, is what I love. Different sounds over different parts of the layout, bridges, tunnels etc. Ballast can change the sound slightly.
Can’t beat a bit of clickety clack

Nice video! That’s exactly what my railway sounds like too

[Walkingthedog]

Mine too.

https://youtu.be/tT55wT63Jkg?si=wQExLGbJYw6MPfog

[stonesfan]

Hi All

Someone on Youtube recommends using roofing felt as mock track ballast. Perfectly fine if you just need a relatively low detail and economical solution.

Any big disbenefits of using this method?

Regards

[brian1951]

It will last about 5 minutes before it falls apart.

[Walkingthedog]

No. Track needs to be laid on a flat surface and roofing felt certainly ain’t that. You don’t want the 'ballast' under the sleepers.

[stonesfan]

Thanks for the replies.

I think the answer to this is a fairly firm 'NO'!

How about self adhesive closed cell grey foam? Worth a go? Have access to a large roll of this so it won't cost me anything.

[Walkingthedog]

How about using ballast, it looks much better.

[bulleidboy]

Just to add my two-pennyworth, I did use cork underlay (self-adhesive and pre-cut), and then ballasted in the usual way. In one area of the layout there does appear to be more noise (resonance) when trains are running. This may be due to there not being much on top of the board in that area. As has been said above - and very many times on numerous forums - it is down to personal choice.