[Howzatt]

My baseboard surface is Sundeala, pins don't even reach this and bend soon after entering the sleeper, following the instructions on the pin packet.
Far easier to drill a 1mm hole first as previously suggested

 

[Howzatt]

I had planned to remove all track pins after/during ballasting, but I believe that the track needs to be well secured to the baseboard for extensive soak testing (and playing!) before it is safe to ballast.

Thanks for everyone's interest, it is much appreciated.