Track & Roadbed

Ballast

The crushed stone material spread between and around track ties to simulate the prototype railroad bed.

Full Definition

Ballast is the granular material (crushed stone on the prototype) spread around track ties to secure them, facilitate drainage, and distribute load. In modeling, ballast is typically fine crusite in colors matching regional prototypes - gray granite in the East, brown/tan in the West. Application involves spreading dry ballast, then fixing it with diluted white glue.

Examples

•Woodland Scenics and Arizona Rock both make quality scale ballast

Tips & Best Practices

Add a drop of dish soap to ballast glue to help it flow between stones

Related Terms

Roadbed

The foundation beneath track that provides support, absorbs sound, and creates realistic appearance.

Weathering

Techniques that add realistic wear, dirt, rust, and age to models.

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