BASEBOARD BASICS

I’m new to railway modelling and would like to build a portable ‘O’ gauge layout. I intend to build a softwood timber framework, but I’m a little confused as to whether I should use plywood, MDF, or chipboard for the baseboard top.

Steve Whelan, by email

George says: Medium Density Fibreboard (MDF) is easy to cut and shape and, when used as a baseboard top, is fairly resilient. However, it can be sensitive to moisture and dampness, so choosing a water-resistant grade is recommended. Like MDF, chipboard is also made up of compacted wood fibres, bound together with adhesive and often faced with a thin plastic-coated outer layer. Chipboard is stronger than MDF but it can be heavy. Special screws are needed to fasten MDF or chipboard.

Plywood is stronger and generally more expensive than MDF or chipboard, being made up of thin layers of real hardwoods. Each layer has its grain running at right angles to each other, to improve strength and resistance to warping. External grades are recommended owing to their greater stability, especially in damp or humid environments such as a shed, attic or basement.

For a portable layout, plywood would offer greater strength and resilience, especially when combined with a timber framing arrangement. If the boards are likely to be moved around or stacked, you’ll need materials that can withstand it. The weight of ‘O’ gauge locomotives and stock can be substantial, even on a small layout, so the board will need to be able to support them.

NOTE: when cutting or sanding any of these materials, hazardous dust is created, so wear a facemask. When buying sheets of plywood, always take the time to choose each board carefully, rejecting any twisted, stained or damaged sheets.