O Scale: 125, 100HO Scale: 100, 83, 70, 55N Scale: 80, 55, 40Z Scale: 55, 40
You can use different codes of track on the same layout. Real railroads often use different sizes of rail on mainlines and spurs. When connecting rails of different codes, you’ll need a special joint bar called a transition joint. It’s a good idea to plan your railroad before making purchases, as you’ll need to know where you’ll need transition joints. Model railroad track is also available with rails of steel, brass, or aluminum. Steel and brass are less desirable because they will rust or corrode, especially in humid environments. Model railroad track with an integrated roadbed has rails fastened to strips of molded plastic that’s painted to look like a bed of ballast with ties embedded in it. Integrated roadbed track stays locked together better than standard track, making it ideal for children’s train sets. This is why most train sets sold today come with an integrated roadbed track. Integrated roadbed tracks are also better for temporary layouts placed on the floor to elevate the track above carpet fibers. Unlike standard track, not all brands of integrated roadbed tracks are compatible. Although many share a common rail connection and size, the locking tabs on the roadbed are unique to each manufacturer. You can usually join integrated roadbed and standard tracks without much difficulty. Track with an integrated roadbed is usually sold by brand name, as all track in these product lines will have the same code rails. Laying flex track is a little more challenging than standard track, but can build many more layouts and allows even more reliable operation. Flex track does not have an integrated roadbed but can be put on its own sub-roadbed, like cork.
