Foam for studio walls can be essential for the listening experience.
It helps to absorb sound; reducing echo and improving quality.
Installing foam isn’t difficult. That’s why it is one of the most popular acoustic treatments.
This guide will walk you through how to install studio foam panels and what to look for when buying them.
Skip to:
- Why use foam for studio walls?
- Choosing foam for your studio
- Installing the foam
- What type of foam is best?
- Acoustic foam FAQs
Why use foam for studio walls?
Foam panels are used in studios for acoustic treatment – essentially to control sound quality.
Acoustic foam benefit – acoustic treatment with foam can make a huge difference in studio sound quality.
Foam panels absorb soundwaves and stop them from reflecting. Preventing sound reflection reduces two things:
- Echo – a reflection of sound waves off surfaces that causes a repetition of the original sound, usually at a slightly delayed time. This happens when sound waves bounce off studio walls and return to the listener’s ears, degrading sound quality.
- Reverb – the persistence of sound in an enclosed space after the original sound has stopped. This can give a more pronounced, echoey effect.
High-pitched sounds are more likely than lower-pitched noises to be reflected. In his book ‘Sound Reproduction: Loudspeakers and Rooms’, Floyd E. Toole writes:
“The requirement to attenuate these reflections applies to frequencies over 1 kHz, meaning that 1 inch (25 mm) thick fiber glass board will suffice, and that all that is accomplished is an attenuation of first reflections from the tweeters. All sound below 1 kHz will be reflected.”
What O’Toole is saying in this statement is that 1“ thick acoustic foam will take care of absorbing high frequency sounds from your audio. But for a more comprehensive absorption of both low and high frequency sounds, you’ll need thicker and denser foam or panels.
Choosing foam for your studio
Several types of acoustic foam panels are made specifically for studio use. Key factors to consider when choosing panels include:
- Density – Denser foams absorb more sound energy across a wider spectrum of frequencies. Look for foams with a density of around 1 to 7 lbs per cubic foot.
- Thickness – Thicker panels absorb better. 2-inch panels are suitable for most studios, while 4-inch panels provide maximum absorption.
- Fire rating – Studio foam should be fire-rated for safety. Look for materials treated to meet flammability standards.
- Color/style – Both solid and colorful patterned foams are available. Get panels that fit your studio’s aesthetics. Wedge-shaped panels are the most common style and work well for corner mounting. Corner bass traps and flat panels are other options.
Installing the foam
Installing foam studio panels is a relatively easy DIY project. Follow these key steps:
- Determine placement. figure out where panels will go for maximum benefit. Prioritize the rear and front walls first, then side walls and ceiling. Corners are key areas, as bass tends to build up in them.
- Clean surfaces. Wipe down walls properly. Remove posters, screens or anything else on the walls.
- Measure and mark. Measure out where panels will mount. Use a level to ensure they will be mounted straight. Mark spots lightly with pencil.
- Apply adhesive. Foam for studio walls is usually self-adhesive on one side. Peel adhesive cover off, line up panel, and press firmly in place. Hold 30 seconds. If the foam isn’t self-adhesive, use double-sided mounting tape instead.
- Aim for 20-30% total coverage. Don’t neglect the corners of your studio, unless you are going to use bass traps for the corners. If you are using bass traps, leave a big enough gap them.
- Check Appearance Step back and check the look and symmetry of the panel placement as you work. Realign any crooked panels.
While treating an entire room is ideal, even just the rear wall or corners will help for home studios on a budget.
What type of foam is best?
There are several types of acoustic foam to choose from, each with pros and cons:
Polyurethane foam
Best for: Small home studios
Melamine foam
Best for: Stylish acoustic treatment on a budget
Acoustic mineral wool
Best for: Large professional studios
Polyester acoustic foam
Best for: A variety of budgets
Foam for studio walls: Final tips
We’ll end with some parting advice on sticking foam in your studio:
👉Prioritize wall pace behind monitors
Installing foam on the rear wall behind monitor speakers should be top priority. This helps absorb the key first reflections from monitors that can interfere with mixing decisions.
Front wall reflections are second priority and side wall treatment should focus on where the listeners in the room are sat (such as behind a sofa).
👉 Be aware of obstructions
Don’t obstruct sprinkler heads, lighting, or wall-mounted gear like power strips or audio interfaces. Plan around these elements.
If you have electric sockets on walls, the space around the panel can either be left clear or panel cutouts can be made for outlets so they remain usable.
👉 Keep your distance from heat sources
Keep foam panels at least 0.5 – 1 meters away from any heat source to minimize safety risks and prevent warping.
Acoustic foam FAQs
Foam for studio walls is an effective and affordable and acoustic treatment solution.
Haven’t found what you are looking for? Have a read of the frequently asked questions below for more information:
How much foam do I need for my studio?
The amount of foam needed depends on the size of your studio and the level of sound absorption desired. As a general rule, aim to cover 20-30% of the total wall surface area. Prioritize placing panels on the rear wall behind speakers, in corners, and on the ceiling first. For smaller rooms, even just a few panels can make a noticeable difference.
What thickness of foam should I use?
Foam panels typically come in 1-inch, 2-inch, 3-inch, and 4-inch thicknesses. 2-inch panels offer a good balance of absorption and cost-effectiveness for most small to medium-sized rooms. 3-inch and 4-inch panels provide greater low-frequency absorption but are more expensive. 1-inch panels are only recommended for treating very high frequencies.
Can I use regular insulation foam instead of acoustic foam?
No, regular foam insulation is not designed for sound absorption and will not provide the same acoustic benefits as specialized acoustic foam. Foam insulation is meant for thermal insulation and can actually reflect sound waves, making room acoustics worse. Always use foam specifically designed for sound treatment.
What’s the difference between wedge and pyramid foam?
Wedge and pyramid refer to the shape of the foam panels. Wedge-shaped panels have triangular ridges, while pyramid panels have pointed, pyramid-shaped protrusions. Both shapes are designed to increase surface area and improve sound absorption. Wedge panels are more common and tend to be more effective for controlling echoes and reflections. Pyramid panels are more decorative and are better for spot-treating specific frequencies.
Can I paint acoustic foam panels?
It’s generally not recommended to paint acoustic foam, as this can clog the pores and reduce its sound-absorbing properties. If you must paint the foam to match your room decor, use a spray paint specifically designed for foam materials. Apply the paint lightly and avoid saturating the foam, which can harden it and hamper performance.
How do I install foam panels on the walls?
Most acoustic foam panels come with a self-adhesive backing that allows for easy peel-and-stick installation. For a more secure hold, you can also use spray adhesive or double-sided tape. Start by cleaning the wall surface, then measure and mark the placement of each panel. Peel off the adhesive backing, align the panel, and press firmly in place for 30-60 seconds. Use a level to ensure panels are straight.
Are foam panels a fire hazard?
Acoustic foam is generally fire-resistant, but not entirely fireproof. Look for foam panels that are treated with fire retardants and meet relevant safety standards. Keep panels away from heat sources, open flames, and sparks. If fire safety is a major concern, consider using fiberglass or mineral wool panels instead, which are inherently non-flammable.
