MODELLER COMMENT: INSULATION IS KEY

FOLLOWING reader Stuart Russell’s letter (Hot Track Talk) in the September issue about protecting model railway layouts from extreme temperatures, Nigel Burkin, Editor - Rail Express Modeller, comments: “The answer is insulation. Insulate the space where the layout is kept. 100mm insulation foam board (pink or blue) is inexpensive, easy to cut and fit. Off-cuts are used for scenery work. The board keeps heat in or out depending on the time of year. It also means that the layout space is more comfortable more of the year and better for enjoying the hobby.

Otherwise, gaps in rail joints (and more of them) is the only answer, and even that is less than satisfactory for places which experience extremes of heat and cold. The gaps might be too large when cold in winter and might not cope at 30 degrees or above.”