Creating a model railroad is really exciting. You spend hours creating the track and landscape, watching your trains run smoothly. However, there is one minor issue you may face after installation, and that is noise. The noise of engines, the shaking of the track, and the wheels can ruin the fun. Don’t worry, we have some advice you can follow to make your model railroad far quieter and much more entertaining to observe.
Why Do Model Railroads Get Noisy?
Most of the noise in model railroads is caused by vibration. When your train is on the move, the motor and wheels cause little tremors that pass through the track and table. This is aggravated by hard surfaces such as plywood. Sound also increases whenever the train wheels or the joints on the tracks are coarse.
How to Make Your Model Railroad Quieter?
Use Sound-Absorbing Materials
The simplest method of cutting noise suggests soft materials below your tracks. You should consider adding foam roadbed, rubber pads, or cork sheets under the rails. The effect of these materials is that they absorb vibration and prevent echoes. Many modelers also use carpet padding or foam board under the layout to make it even quieter.
Secure Tracks Properly
Unsecured tracks produce noise during the passage of trains. The tracks should be secured using adhesive or small screws. But screws should not be over-tightened; this adds vibration. Examine your track joints frequently. When you hear a clicking or rattling sound at a particular location, it is likely a loose joint. These minor problems can be fixed, and noise can be minimized.
Maintain Your Trains
Keep the wheels and gears clean and lubricated so that your trains run quietly. The wheels have dirt or dust that provides friction, resulting in unwanted sound. Keep them clean using a small brush or cloth. You can also put plastic-safe lubricant on gears and axles.
Choose the Right Table Base
The table or surface you use affects how much sound you hear. Plywood is robust and prone to vibration. Instead, as the base, use foam board or hollow-core doors. These are lightweight and vibration-absorbing materials. Consider attaching rubber feet under the table legs to prevent sound from traveling through the floor.
Control the Environment
The room itself makes a difference. Floors and hard walls are sound reflective. To absorb it, add rugs, curtains, or wall foam panels. When you have your layout close to the wall, move it a little further to eliminate echo. These are simple steps that yield a significant difference in sound control.
Use Digital Sound Systems Wisely
In case your model train has sound effects, control the volume. The sound of trains is realistic and entertaining, but loud music may conceal mechanical problems during the long runs or become tedious. You can adjust your sound system to a pleasant level, which can enhance the experience.
Get The Best Solutions to Make Your Model Train Railroad Quieter
Reducing noise helps you focus on the beauty of your trains and not what’s rattling underneath. Charles Ro offers the best quality foam roadbeds, sound-absorbing materials, and expert guidance to achieve a smoother and quieter setup. Search our online store to see what we have in store for a peaceful model railroad that operates smoothly.
