Best HO Scale Code 83 Tracks

In this guide, we’re taking a look at five of the most popular HO scale track sets that use Code 83 rail—perfect for beginners or anyone looking to grow beyond a basic loop. Each set includes things like sectional track, turnouts, wiring connectors, and sometimes even a power controller. We’ll break down what makes each one great (or not so great) by looking at quality, how easy it is to set up, how expandable it is, and how much bang you get for your buck. At the end, we’ll highlight our picks for the Best Overall Track Set and the Best Budget Buy, and we’ve added a handy comparison chart to help you decide.

Bachmann E-Z Track Nickel Silver Expander Set (HO Scale)

Quality & Durability

Bachmann’s E-Z Track system is a staple in beginner train sets, known for its sturdy integrated roadbed and nickel silver rails that resist corrosion. The track geometry is basic (18″ radius curves and #4 turnouts), and while not as finely detailed as others, it’s reasonably durable for casual use. The included remote turnouts are serviceable, though some hobbyists report occasional derailments with finer metal wheels. Overall fit and finish are decent for a starter system.

Ease of Setup

This set shines in simplicity. Sections snap-fit together and stay aligned on floors, tables, or carpet with no need for nails or extra tools. The pack provides 12 pieces of track: four 9″ straights, four 18″ curves, two Hayes bumpers, plus one left and one right remote turnout (each with an electrical switch). Setup is quick and fun, making it ideal for kids and absolute beginners. The turnouts are pre-wired; however, a power pack is not included, so you’ll use the terminal/rerailer from your train set or purchase one separately.

Expandability

Moderately good. The Expander Set allows you to add a passing siding or branch to a basic oval, expanding a layout to about 76″ x 39″ in size. Bachmann offers a variety of E-Z Track pieces (different radius curves, crossings, etc.), so you can grow your track plan. That said, the selection is not as exhaustive as Atlas or Peco’s systems, and E-Z Track’s fixed track geometry can limit complex track plans. It’s best suited for small to mid-size layouts. Interoperability is mostly within the E-Z Track system (Code 100 rail height in this case), though you can transition to Code 83 flex track with special joiners if needed.

Value

Fair. The list price is around $150, though street prices hover around $80–$90 for the Nickel Silver set. It’s not the cheapest way to get track – you’re partly paying for the convenience of roadbed track and remote switch motors. However, user feedback indicates satisfaction with the value: the set holds a 4.3 out of 5 stars average rating from buyers. Many appreciate it as a “great bargain to expand train sets” since it bundles all needed pieces. If you already have a Bachmann starter set, this expansion pack is a straightforward way to add a siding without hunting individual components. Just note that beyond a certain size, E-Z Track costs can add up.

Rating

Atlas Code 83 Snap-Track Starter Set

Quality & Durability

Atlas’s Code 83 track line is highly regarded as the “new standard in model railroading,” offering realistic brown ties and nickel silver rails with excellent reliability. The starter set uses the same materials as Atlas’s pro-level components, so quality is solid. The track pieces are sturdy, and rail joiners hold tight through many assembly cycles. Turnouts are Atlas Snap-Switches which are dependable for most rolling stock. Electrical continuity is very good – the nickel silver rails and connectors conduct power consistently. In short, Atlas Code 83 delivers workhorse durability and appearance at a midrange price point.

Ease of Setup

The Snap-Track sections join via rail joiners (metal fishplates). While not locking roadbed pieces, they are relatively easy to connect on a flat surface. This set includes enough track to make a 38″ x 56″ oval with a passing siding: 2 × 9″ straight sections, 16 × 18″ radius curved sections, plus one left and one right manual turnout, and a pair of terminal joiners for power feeds. Clear instructions are provided, and assembly is a “snap for beginners to assemble”. You will need to hook the terminal joiners to your power pack (not included) – a minor task. Since Atlas track has no built-in roadbed, you may later mount it on cork or foam roadbed for a permanent layout, but for temporary setups you can lay it directly on a table. Overall, newcomers find it straightforward, if not quite as toy-like as snap-lock track. One hobbyist noted he chose Atlas Code 83 for a new layout and was “used to working with it,” indicating its beginner-friendly nature.

Expandability

Excellent. This is arguably Atlas’s greatest strength. The Code 83 track system encompasses a huge array of pieces: various straight lengths, curve radii, and turnout sizes (#4, #6, #8, wyes, crossovers, etc.). Every piece is compatibly engineered, allowing you to design almost any track plan – from small shelf layouts to large club-sized railroads. In fact, the included track plan is just one of many in Atlas’s layout books, and you can keep adding on; the set is “easily expandable as your skill level advances.” Atlas also keeps their track affordably priced (Code 83 pieces cost about the same as Code 100), meaning you can expand without breaking the bank. Whether you want a simple double-track loop or a complex yard, Atlas has the pieces to do it. This flexibility and availability have made Atlas the go-to standard for HO modelers.

Value

Outstanding. With an MSRP around $75 and street prices under $60, the Atlas starter set delivers tremendous bang for your buck. It includes two turnouts (a significant portion of the cost in any layout) and enough track for a decent beginner layout – all with the quality of Atlas components. Compared to roadbed track sets, Atlas gives you more track for the money and an upgrade path toward an advanced layout. The community widely recognizes Atlas for its value; modelers often choose Atlas Code 83 flex and sectional track for visible portions of layouts because it “looks good enough and is lower cost” than pricier brands. If you’re budget-conscious or building a big layout over time, Atlas offers the best economy without sacrificing reliability.

Rating

Kato Unitrack HO Basic Oval Set (HM1) with Power Pack

Quality & Durability

Kato Unitrack is often hailed as the gold standard for modular track. This Japanese-made system uses Code 83 nickel silver rail mounted in a realistic gray ballast base. The precision of manufacturing is evident – sections join with an audible “click” and stay aligned to nearly perfect tolerances. Trains run exceptionally smoothly on Unitrack, thanks to its uniform rail joints and built-in superelevated curve options.

Electrical reliability is top-notch as well; Kato’s joiners double as both mechanical and electrical connectors, creating a very consistent power feed. The track pieces are extremely robust – they withstand repeated assembly, disassembly, and even floor use with minimal wear. In terms of fit and finish, Kato’s quality is legendary among modelers. Many note that Kato Unitrack is “vastly superior” in design and fabrication to other snap-track systems. In community discussions, Bachmann’s track is considered more toy-like, whereas Kato’s is true hobby-grade – built to last for years.

Ease of Setup

This set is about as plug-and-play as it gets. The HM1 Basic Oval pack includes a full 4’6″ × 3’7″ oval of Kato Unitrack (with 670 mm / ~26⅜″ radius curves) and a Kato Power Pack SX controller. The track snaps together firmly with integrated rail joiners and aligning pins – no need to fiddle with separate connectors. A re-railer piece with feeder wires is included, which plugs directly into the power pack. This means you get an out-of-the-box operating railway: just add a train and you’re running.

Setup can be done in minutes and is very newbie-friendly. The Kato turnouts (available in expansion packs, e.g. the HV2 set) are power-routing and come pre-wired for Kato’s switch controllers, which simply plug into the power pack – no cutting or soldering required. Everything about the Unitrack system is designed for ease and precision, reflecting Kato’s engineering. Even bilingual instructions are provided. In short, Kato offers the easiest and most frustration-free setup, allowing beginners to achieve professional-level track work with zero experience.

Expandability

Good, though not as limitless as flex-track systems. Kato’s HO Unitrack line features multiple expansion packs: you can add a passing siding (HV2 pack with #6 turnouts), double-track loops, crossovers, viaduct sets, etc. Curved track comes in a few larger radii (26″, 28¾″ in the basic sets; broader curves are available for double-track). #6 turnouts are the main turnout offering; they are equivalent to about a #6 frog angle and handle most equipment well. While the selection isn’t huge compared to Atlas or Peco, it covers the essentials for designing a sophisticated layout (except very complex yard ladders or custom geometry, where flex track would excel).

The Unitrack philosophy favors pre-designed layout plans that you can combine – and many modelers do join multiple Kato sets to create larger layouts. Notably, Unitrack is fully compatible with DCC wiring and even offers an HO double crossover piece and crossing tracks as your layout grows. The only caveat is cost: expanding with Kato track is more expensive piece-for-piece, which may deter building a giant layout entirely of Unitrack. However, the modular ease can outweigh the limited piece variety for most small to medium layouts.

Value

Moderate. There’s no denying that Kato Unitrack commands a premium price. The HM1 set typically retails around $160–$180, which is roughly double the cost of an Atlas equivalent oval. However, it does include a high-quality throttle (Power Pack SX, often ~$60 if bought alone) and the convenience of a complete set. You are essentially paying for the quality and time saved. For many, that trade-off is worth it: “ease of use and reliability is worth a lot” when it comes to Kato track.

The community generally agrees that while Kato starter sets cost more, they come with locomotives and cars you’ll “run forever” and track that performs flawlessly – in other words, you won’t be itching to upgrade the track itself. Beginners with the budget for Kato often find it a sound investment that spares them frustration. Still, for those counting dollars, Kato might seem steep; one Reddit user humorously noted the Kato sets are pricey but “aren’t made out of titanium” – the quality justifies the cost, but it’s a big jump from entry-level Bachmann packs. In summary, value is in the eye of the beholder: excellent product for the price, but the price is high.

Rating

Peco Streamline Code 83 Track (Custom Set for Expansion)

Quality & Durability

UK-based Peco is renowned for making some of the finest model track in the world, and their Streamline Code 83 line targets North American HO modelers who demand realism and reliability. Peco Code 83 flex track and turnouts are engineered from actual AREA (American Railway Engineering Association) drawings. Ties (sleepers) are scale-sized with authentic spacing, and the molded spike and tie-plate details are extremely fine – offering superb realism right out of the box. The nickel silver rail is custom formulated for optimal conductivity, and Peco’s famously robust construction means these tracks can handle heavy use. In fact, Peco turnouts are often described as virtually “impossible to break” under normal use.

The switch points are spring-loaded on most Peco turnouts (Insulfrog and Electrofrog versions), which not only keeps points tight against the stock rail for great electrical contact but also allows you to throw them manually with a satisfying snap. This spring feature makes Peco turnouts very solid and reliable in operation. Modelers running Peco for years attest to their dependability – these turnouts hold up through thousands of cycles. Overall, Peco’s build quality is top-tier: precise, heavy-duty, and built for smooth performance. It’s no surprise many in the community consider Peco turnouts “some of the best on the market,” known for their durable components.

Ease of Setup

Peco Streamline is a system for more advanced layouts, so it doesn’t have a one-box starter set. You’ll be purchasing pieces (flex track, turnouts, etc.) a la carte to create your layout design. As such, the ease of initial setup depends on your familiarity with laying track. Flex track requires cutting and bending to shape, and turnouts need to be wired appropriately (especially Electrofrog versions that may require insulated joiners on the frog rails).

Beginners can certainly use Peco track – many do, starting with simple plans – but it’s a bit more involved than snap-together track. That said, Peco products are well-designed for ease of use. The spring points mean you don’t need switch machines right away; you can flick the turnout by finger and it will stay in position, which is fantastic for small layouts or early stages. Peco turnouts come in both Insulfrog (power-routing, simpler wiring) and Electrofrog (powered frog, better for slow engines) versions, both of which are DCC-friendly with minor wiring practices. Peco provides clear instructions with their turnouts for recommended wiring. Laying Peco flex track might intimidate a novice, but it’s very forgiving – the flex holds shape well and rails can be easily soldered or joined to Atlas, Walthers, or other Code 83 track. In summary: not plug-and-play, but any modeler willing to learn basic track-laying will find Peco flexible, straightforward, and ultimately rewarding to work with.

Expandability

Excellent. Peco’s range of Code 83 North American-style track is comprehensive. They offer #6 and #8 turnouts (both left and right), a #4 Wye turnout, curved turnouts, and crossings, as well as essential accessories like rail joiners and switch motors. Using Peco flex track (sold in 3-foot sections), you can create any curve radius needed for your layout, which gives infinite geometric freedom compared to fixed-radius track sets. The combination of flex track for curves and a variety of turnouts means Peco can handle everything from a tight 4′x8′ layout to a sprawling basement empire. Importantly, Peco track is highly compatible with other brands’ Code 83 – many modelers mix Peco turnouts into Atlas flex track layouts, for instance, to get the benefit of Peco’s quality.

Supply and availability are usually good (Peco is manufactured in the UK, avoiding some supply chain issues that affect others). If you choose to invest in Peco as your main system, you are set up for long-term expansion: you’ll find it’s “highly dependable… and likely to be available when you want to buy ’em,” as one veteran notes. The only possible limitation is cost: building a large layout with all Peco track is pricier than using Atlas flex/turnouts. However, you might decide to use Atlas/Peco together to balance cost and performance (common in the community). Overall, for expandability, Peco is on par with Walthers in offering a complete, prototypical track system for serious layout building.

Value

Good. Peco Streamline is a premium product, but it delivers premium longevity. Turnouts typically run $30–$40 each in HO Code 83. While that’s more than Atlas Snap-switches (~$20), you’re paying for smooth, trouble-free operation and durability that can save you headaches (and money) in the long run. Flex track is around $5–$6 per 3-foot piece, comparable to other brands when adjusted for length. Considering the robustness, many modelers feel Peco is worth every penny: a well-made turnout that prevents derailments or electrical issues is “priceless” when your trains are running. Also, the spring in the turnout can save you from immediately buying ground throws or motors, which is a value advantage (one less thing to purchase upfront). If budget is a major concern for a big layout, one strategy is to use Peco where it counts (like complex junctions or mainline switches) and less expensive track elsewhere. But if you can afford it, outfitting your whole layout in Peco Code 83 will provide a lifetime of reliable service. In summary, Peco is not the cheapest, but offers high value through superior performance. As one enthusiast succinctly put it: Peco track may cost a bit more, but it is “highly dependable” and robust, so you get what you pay for.

Rating

WalthersTrack Code 83 Complete System

Quality & Durability

WalthersTrack Code 83 is the modern incarnation of the famed Shinohara line, now manufactured with updated features. The quality is very high – Walthers focused on combining “great looks and great performance in a complete system.” Ties are thin-profile and molded in realistic dark brown with wood grain detail. Each tie has finely molded spike and tie-plate detail, rivaling (and in some opinions, surpassing) Atlas and Peco in realism.

The nickel silver rail used by Walthers has excellent conductivity, and the turnouts are all DCC-friendly (plastic frogs with option to power if desired, or metal isolated frogs in some cases) – a big improvement over older Shinohara units. In terms of reliability, the new Walthers turnouts have fixed many of the issues that plagued the previous generation. Points are snug, gauging is accurate, and the overall construction is robust (though unlike Peco, Walthers turnouts do not have an internal spring – they rely on your switch machine or ground throw to hold position).

Community reports indicate that Walthers’ new Code 83 line is now a top contender: one modeler noted it has become his “go-to brand” after the Shinohara reboot, praising its reliable operation and similar appearance to the old hand-built quality. Another user said “I like the Walthers turnouts a lot,” even using a double crossover and multiple turnouts on his layout with great success. The track holds up well over time; flex track and turnouts from this line, if installed properly, will provide years (if not decades) of service. In short, WalthersTrack offers pro-level realism and dependability, making it a favorite for many contemporary HO layouts.

Ease of Setup

Like Peco, Walthers’ track system is a collection of components rather than a plug-together set. Beginners will need to plan their track and purchase pieces accordingly. Flex track is used for most fill-in sections and curves – Walthers flex has a good balance of flexibility and rigidity (somewhere between the stiffness of Micro Engineering flex and the softness of Atlas flex). Cutting and laying it follows standard practice. Turnouts in the Walthers line require either manual ground throws or switch machines (sold separately) because they don’t have built-in throw mechanisms. This means out-of-the-box, a Walthers turnout will sit with its points movable by finger, but they won’t stay locked—so you will need to install some kind of throw to use them reliably (even a simple Caboose Industries ground throw). This is a bit less newbie-friendly than Peco’s spring, but certainly manageable.

Walthers turnouts are all-powering (the stock rails continuously power the point rails and frog in the DCC-friendly design), so wiring is straightforward: just feed power to all routes and insulate frogs when using the live-frog versions. The newer Walthers turnouts eliminated the need for cutting jumpers or extra feeds that old Shinoharas needed, which greatly simplifies things for builders. Aligning Walthers track is easy as everything is made to NMRA specs – it joins up with Atlas, Peco, etc., with standard rail joiners. Overall, building with Walthers Code 83 is similar to building with Atlas code 83, just with more variety in pieces. It’s recommended for moderate to advanced beginners who are ready to move beyond snap-track and learn the art of laying flex and turnouts. The learning curve is rewarded by a very professional-looking trackwork.

Expandability

Excellent. Walthers offers one of the most complete assortments of Code 83 track components on the market. You can get #4, #5, #6, #7½ (curved), #8 and #10 turnouts, single and double-crossovers, double-slip switches (in the older Shinohara line; the new Walthers line lacks a double-slip, for which many use a Peco in its place), crossings from 19° to 90°, bridge track, and more. Essentially, any track arrangement you dream up can be built with WalthersTrack. Because it’s a “complete system”, all the pieces are designed to work seamlessly – track height, rail joiners, spacing, etc., are consistent.

A highlight is the Walthers double-crossover (a combination of two crossovers crossing each other) which saves a lot of space for crossovers on double track and is very smooth in operation – a feature Atlas doesn’t offer in Code 83. Walthers also produces matching accessories like bumpers, wheel stops, and even a recently tooled turntable that mates well with their track. The compatibility with other brands’ code 83 means you can integrate Walthers components as you expand an existing layout, which many do (e.g., using Walthers curved turnouts in an Atlas layout).

Availability is generally good, though some items can sell out due to popularity. The new-production (made in China) Walthers turnouts are steadily stocked and not subject to the old Shinohara stock issues. In summary, WalthersTrack gives you free rein to expand from a tiny shelf switching layout to a massive multi-deck system, all with consistent quality and appearance.

Value

Fair to good. Walthers Code 83 products sit at the higher end of the price spectrum, comparable to Peco. A #6 turnout lists around $35–$40, and flex track is about $6 for a 3′ section. You do get superb detail and solid performance for that price, so many feel it’s justified. If you’re budget-conscious, you might use Atlas flex (cheaper) with Walthers turnouts, which is a common practice – this saves money while still leveraging Walthers’ excellent switches where it counts.

The value of WalthersTrack really shows in the finished result: the track is an integral part of your scenery, and Walthers makes it look very convincing, possibly negating the need for extra weathering or detailing that you might do with cheaper track. Also, consider that Walthers turnouts come fully assembled and rigorously tested – the cost reflects not having to fine-tune or debug them as often.

A user on a forum noted that after Walthers fixed the old issues, he finds the new ones absolutely worth it and has made them his standard, even though Micro Engineering’s might look a tad more realistic in some respects. This indicates that functionality and availability tipped the value in Walthers’ favor. All in all, if you want a trouble-free, pro-grade track system and are willing to invest a bit more, WalthersTrack is a strong value. If on a tight budget, you might selectively incorporate Walthers pieces.

Rating:

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Comparison Table: HO Code 83 Track Set Options

Below is a side-by-side comparison of key features, approximate pricing, and ratings for each track system reviewed:

Track Set (Brand)	Included Turnouts	Power Pack	Approx. Price	Quality	Ease of Use	Expandability	Value
Bachmann E-Z Track (NS Expander)	2 × Remote #4 turnouts, bumpers, straights & curves	No (needs external)	$80–$90	3.5/5 (durable, toy-like detail)	5/5 (snap-fit roadbed)	3/5 (limited geometry)	3/5 (moderate; convenience costs)
Atlas Code 83 Starter (Snap-Track)	2 × Manual turnouts (#4 approx)	No	$50–$75	4/5 (reliable, good realism)	4/5 (easy sectional track)	5/5 (extensive pieces)	5/5 (excellent affordability)
Kato Unitrack HO HM1 (Basic Oval)	No turnouts (oval only; turnouts in add-ons)	Yes – included Kato SX pack	$160–$180	5/5 (premium build)	5/5 (lock-tight roadbed)	4/5 (decent range, some limits)	2.5/5 (high cost, high quality)
Peco Streamline Code 83 (Custom)	Custom – e.g. use 2 × #6 turnouts + flex track	No	$100 (est. for oval+siding pieces)	5/5 (top-notch, very robust)	3/5 (requires layout work)	5/5 (flexible layout design)	4/5 (pricey but long-term value)
Walthers Code 83 (Complete system)	Custom – e.g. #6 turnouts + flex + crossings	No	$100+ (est. similar to Peco for small layout)	4.5/5 (highly realistic)	2.5/5 (advanced setup)	5/5 (huge selection)	4/5 (premium price, premium product)

Notes: Prices are approximate for a basic layout’s worth of track in each system. “Custom” indicates no boxed set; one would buy components separately. Ease of Use assumes a beginner’s perspective (roadbed track is easiest; flex track requires more skill). Expandability considers variety of track pieces and ease of making a larger layout. Value weighs cost versus performance and longevity.

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Best Overall Track Set

Kato Unitrack Code 83 HO Starter Set

Kato’s HO Unitrack system stands out as the best overall track set due to its unparalleled quality and user-friendly design. It earned top marks in build quality, with impeccably engineered Code 83 track that clicks together precisely and stays electrically reliable. Community feedback consistently places Kato at the high end; modelers often compare Bachmann vs. Kato and conclude that Bachmann’s kits are “toys” while Kato’s are “actual hobby grade” products. In our analysis, Kato also scored a perfect 5/5 on ease of setup – it’s essentially foolproof, allowing even a novice to achieve bulletproof track work on day one. The inclusion of a matched power pack in the basic set makes it truly plug-and-play.

Where Unitrack really shines is the operational reliability: once set up, trains run smoothly with minimal derailments or electrical issues, which is crucial for beginners building confidence. Durability is another big plus; the track can be assembled, taken apart, and reconfigured countless times without losing its grip or alignment. This makes it ideal for those starting with a small layout on a table or floor and later moving to a bigger layout – the track will grow with you.

The only real downside is cost – Kato is the priciest option among those reviewed, and the range of pieces, while sufficient for most layouts, is not as vast as some competitors. However, if budget permits, the investment yields a top-tier experience. As one experienced hobbyist summed up, “ease of use and reliability is worth a lot” when choosing your track system. For a beginner or expanding modeler who wants a frustration-free setup with professional-level performance, Kato Unitrack is the clear winner.

Best Budget Buy

Atlas Code 83 Snap-Track Starter Set

Atlas’s Code 83 starter offers the best value for money, making it our top budget pick. For well under $100, you get a full oval of track with a passing siding, including two quality turnouts – a foundation sufficient to run trains and do basic switching. Atlas track delivers reliability and decent realism at a fraction of the cost of premium brands. In fact, many seasoned modelers still use Atlas flex and sectional track on their large layouts because “it looks good enough and is lower cost” than the higher-end alternatives. This speaks to Atlas’s balance of quality and price: it’s solid enough for permanent use, yet affordable to acquire in bulk.

The Atlas set also wins on expandability; it’s a budget-friendly platform that you won’t outgrow. As your layout expands, you can keep adding Atlas track (which is widely available and inexpensive), or even integrate it with more expensive components later on. There’s a reason Atlas is often recommended to newcomers – it’s forgiving to work with, compatible with everything, and doesn’t strain the wallet. Durability is good too; nickel silver rails and sturdy plastic ties ensure the track will hold up under continuous use.

While Atlas doesn’t have the click-lock ease of Bachmann or Kato, it’s still quite straightforward and teaches useful skills like joining track and laying roadbed if you choose to. Considering the excellent 5/5 rating in value and a strong 4/5 in quality in our review, the Atlas Code 83 set is the smart choice for budget-conscious beginners. You’ll get reliable operation and a clear upgrade path, all at an entry-level price. It’s no exaggeration to say that with Atlas track, every dollar spent works harder, allowing you to build more layout for less money without regretting the choice later on.

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Conclusion

Choosing the right HO scale track set can make a huge difference in how much you enjoy building and running your layout—especially if you’re just starting out or moving beyond a simple oval. Each of the five systems we reviewed has its own strengths: Kato Unitrack stands out for its flawless build quality and easy setup, making it our top pick overall. If you’re on a tighter budget, the Atlas Code 83 Starter Set gives you solid performance and plenty of room to grow without breaking the bank.

Whether you want plug-and-play simplicity, pro-level realism, or something in between, there’s a set here that fits the bill. Think about how much time you want to spend building versus running, how much space you have, and what kind of future expansion you’re planning. The good news is, all these options are well-regarded in the model train community—so you really can’t go wrong. Start small, have fun, and watch your layout grow from there.