How do I Glue a Ballast?

Ballast keeps model railroad tracks in position.

Model railroad enthusiasts use ballast to create realistic scenery along railroad lines. Ballast holds model railroad tracks in position. The movement of train cars causes unglued ballast to shift or spread out. Railroad hobbyists use an adhesive to hold individual granules of ballast together and refer to this substance as ballast "glue." Apply a coating of ballast glue to track ballast before you run any railroad cars along the tracks.

Things You'll Need

• Rubbing alcohol
• Spray bottle
• White glue
• Water
• Disposable cup
• Wooden coffee stirrer
• Squeeze bottle
• 3/4-inch paintbrush
• Paper towel
• Razor blade
• Clean cloth

Instructions

1. 

   Use a spray bottle with an adjustable nozzle.

   Spray the ballast with rubbing alcohol. Use a plastic spray bottle and adjust the spray nozzle to a fine mist. The rubbing alcohol will work its way through the ballast and make it possible for the glue solution to thoroughly filter through the ballast.

2. 

   Blend liquids with a wooden coffee stirrer.

   Mix a solution of ballast glue. Use one part glue to three parts water. The amount to make depends upon the amount of ballast you intend to seal. Combine the ingredients in a large disposable cup and blend well with a wooden coffee stirrer.

3. 

   Spread a liquid medium with a paintbrush.

   Use a squeeze bottle to cover the ballast with the glue solution; an old squeeze-type mustard container works well. Work on less than 3 linear feet of track at a time. Spread the solution with a paintbrush for maximum coverage. Make the glue solution between the railroad ties level with the top of the ties. It will gradually sink down into the ballast. Cover all the ballast on both sides of the rails. Use a paper towel to wipe any glue spots from the tracks and flat surfaces before they dry.

4. 

   Remove dried glue with a razor blade.

   Inspect the railroad tracks after gluing the ballast. Use a razor blade to remove droplets of the dried glue solution. Remove glue haze from tracks and other surfaces with a clean cloth dampened with rubbing alcohol.

Tips & Warnings

• To add more ballast to a specific area, apply the glue solution and drop particles of ballast onto the area with a teaspoon.

• Rubbing alcohol is highly combustible. Keep it away from an open flame or spark. Do not operate any model train equipment until the rubbing alcohol has dried completely and fumes have dissipated.

References

• "Project Railroads You Can Build: From Benchwork to Finished Scenery"; Kent J. Johnson; 2001
• "Basic Trackwork for Model Railroaders: The Complete Photo Guide"; Jeff Wilson; 2004
• "Realistic Modeling for Toy Trains: A Hi-Rail Guide"; Dennis Brennan; 2009
• "How to Build Realistic Model Railroad Scenery"; Dave Frary; 2005
• "101 Projects for Your Model Railroad"; Front Cover Robert Schleicher; 2002