What are my options for creating roads?

Many manufacturers supply road rolls simulating tarmac or asphalt surfaces, some carrying surface markings others are unmarked. These also come in a range of styles from simple straight road segments to gentle curves and half circles for roundabouts. Also available are parking areas, road intersections and junctions so that modellers can create larger surfaces for busy urban areas. Road rolls are available in both OO/HO and N Gauge and many come as self-adhesive for easy integration into a layout. Also supplied are small country dirt-based roads that will be helpful for modellers looking to create a rural theme for their layouts. 

Road rolls are a very versatile tool but will not suit all needs. For example, those looking for a more vintage feel, such as cobblestones in a market square will have to examine other options. Luckily, for this particular task, there is another option available. Embossed PVC sheets are particularly effective at creating a cobblestone effect. The embossed surface also offers excellent opportunities for weathering techniques such as pin-washes to be applied adding that extra level of detail. Many Embossed PVC sheets are supplied unpainted but there are also ready-painted options available.

Also available is a large range of supporting items that will help add further depth to any road surface. These include roadside stone walls or metal barriers and ready-made road signs to help add that final touch. A number of manufacturers produce ready-made road markings for either UK or Continental road systems. These can either be decals or simple transfers. These cover a broad scope of options including junctions, parking zones, bus stops and speed zones to name but a few. Road markings can be extremely versatile by allowing modellers to use unmarked road rolls to create a bespoke road network and then bring it to life using appropriate markings.

It has never been easier to create realistic road surfaces with a wide range of diverse products widely and cheaply available. With the addition of carefully selected scaled figures, a simple scene can be brought to life offering an eye-catching cameo. Why not have a dabble at road building on your next diorama or layout?