Fixing track

[Kubes]

Hi what's the best way to fix track to a wooden base - screws or nails? I used screws and plugs on the concrete section but the raised section is on timber planks. Thanks

[Peter Butler]

I doubt there is a 'best way' just the way you feel happiest with! I use screws on my timber base but I always use screws, not nails, for any fixing. Nails are less obtrusive and can be applied quicker (I guess), although I would still drill holes in the sleepers to prevent cracking and splitting, and use panel pins with small heads.

[steamie1]

Make sure you pre drill the sleeper and use brass or stainless screws. Don't screw down too tight.

[Kubes]

Thanks guys - screws it is then!

[Andrew]

I found some little black dome-headed screws (B&Q I think) which I used for recent track-laying (Peco onto wooden decking boards), very unobtrusive...

Cheers,

Andrew.

[Dr. Bond of the DVLR]

Just to throw more into the mix I'd recommend steel nails over brass, they will rust into the wood and won't work loose as a brass screw might, I leave mine with enough sticking out so that with a pair of pliers and a little elbow grease they can be removed if you change your mind about the track layout.

[Graff B.]

I have track fixed down to a wood base with steel panel pins. Most of it has been down about 15 years with no major problems.

[bazzer42]

Just to add another dimension, I use stainless steel security screws from good old screwfix.

[Kubes]

Just goes to show there's never one correct way to do something. I'll have to have a look at the Screwfix catalogue and decide!