Can LGB roadbed sections be used outdoors?

Yes. The roadbed sections are made from UV-resistant, natural rubber. It is the same material used in the treads of tracked vehicles and has been proven in years of rugged, industrial use.

How do I select LGB roadbed sections?

Each of the 25 roadbed sections is made to match a specific LGB track section. For example, the "61100" roadbed section matches the "11000" R1 curved section. The "61200" roadbed section matches the "12000" and "12050" switches.

See the latest LGB catalog, the LGB Roadbed System Applications Brochure or the "Products" section at www.lgb.com for more information on specific roadbed sections.

LGB roadbed sections are molded in a realistic grey color, but they can be painted with acrylic (latex) paints. If the sections will be used outdoors, choose an outdoor paint. In all cases, we suggest testing the paint on the underside of a roadbed section.

Do LGB roadbed sections need to be cut or fitted?

In most cases, no. However, some special track pieces and configurations do require some cutting and fitting. For this, we recommend the 61750 Roadbed Installation Kit, which includes two knives, glue, a cutting pattern and instructions. You may also need a metal ruler and a ball-point pen or a fine-tipped marker.

I'm installing LGB roadbed outdoors. Should I cut drainage holes in the roadbed sections?

It's not necessary, but you can. We've designed the roadbed sections with a thin "skin" under the track ties that can be easily removed to allow drainage. However, that skin also serves as a very useful barrier to prevent grasses and weeds from growing up through the track. (On indoor layouts, the skin protects your floors by preventing dirt from going down through the roadbed.)

Also, the roadbed sections fit very closely to the track ties, and in our testing, we found no problems caused the very small amount of water that might accumulate in between.

Can you use LGB 11500 Track Clips with the LGB roadbed sections?

Yes. However, when you use the roadbed sections, the clips join the roadbed sections not the track sections. Also, two clips, instead of one, are used at each joint.

Yes. The sections have a wide channel on the underside for concealing wiring.

Do LGB roadbed sections require maintenance?

No. LGB roadbed sections eliminate most of the maintenance needs of traditional "ballasted" layouts. (On indoor layouts, LGB roadbed sections also eliminate much of the noise.)

However, LGB roadbed sections can be cleaned with a broom, detergent and water, depending on what is appropriate for the rest of your layout.

Why is the LGB Roadbed System a good value?

- LGB roadbed is very attractive. Unlike others, LGB roadbed has a realistic ballast surface, and it doesn't require painting. (However, it has been formulated so you can paint it if you wish.)

- LGB roadbed will give you years of trouble-free use, outdoors and indoors. Like our LGB trains and track, our roadbed is formulated to survive the extremes of temperature and UV exposure. Under normal circumstances, LGB roadbed should require no maintenance, which makes it quite different than traditional gravel ballast.

(The closest other commercial product is also custom fitted, but uses a different material and requires painting for a realistic appearance. Still, that roadbed is priced at $7.00 for one basic 300 mm straight section, considerably more than the typical selling price of our equivalent section. Prices as of May 20, 2005.)

So, when you consider the initial cost of LGB roadbed, also consider the reduced preparation, installation, repair and maintenance costs. Taken together, the LGB Roadbed System is a very good value.

Top of Page