looking to build a outdoor layout with O scale. I would of course bring in my trains so they will not be subject to the weather. But what track can I use and leave outdoors. Ken
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I think you have two choices. Atlas or Gargraves with stainless steel rails and plastic ties.
I have been using Atlas track (not the steel variety) on my outdoor layout for about 5 years now. It is fine and the plastic ties are treated to be UV resistant.
Andrew
Probably your best bet is Gargraves track with stainless steel rails. Atlas O with nickel silver might work, but because it has plastic ties I would worry about the impact UV would have on it. You also if you use powered turnouts to find a way to protect the switch machines, you also likely would have maintenance issues with turnouts, keeping the moving rails lubricated and clean of debris outside. Gargraves has switches with stainless steel rails, which Ross sadly does not.
Gargraves stainless steel flex with uv plastic ties.
Atlas O track has been made with uv resistant plastic for years now. And Atlas O track is fixable, Gargraves is not.
As a new Member I thank you for your advice, Your never too Old to Learn and Listen, Ken
The G&O garden railroad uses Atlas track and switches. Much of it has been outdoors for 8 years without major problems. The plastic ties are UV protected. The track is strong enough to walk on. The G&O does not use switch machines.
Here is a link to the G&O Story on this forum: https://ogrforum.com/.../the-gandamp-o-story
NH Joe
I use Atlas O silver nickle track, I've had track out in the elements for over 5 years and has held up fine. Atlas O silver nickle track is also UV resistant.
YouTube: Ron Karlsson
