Affordable Soundproofing Solutions for Your Abode: Harnessing the Power of Foam in our Living Room

Design: J-Style Concept

Whether it's the bustling traffic outside or the neighbour's television blaring through the walls, unwanted noise can disrupt your peace and tranquillity at home. But fret not, because there is a cost-effective solution available – foam. Foam materials, such as foam panels or acoustic foam products, offer an affordable and practical solution for reducing unwanted noise in your living space. Foam can effectively absorb sound waves, reducing echoes and improving the acoustics of your rooms. While foam alone may not provide complete soundproofing, it serves as a cost-effective starting point.

By strategically placing foam panels on your walls, you can significantly diminish the impact of external noise sources. The foam absorbs the sound waves that would otherwise bounce off hard surfaces, effectively reducing reverberation and creating a more peaceful environment. This is particularly beneficial for rooms where echoes tend to be more pronounced, such as home theatres, music studios, or living spaces with high ceilings.

In addition to its sound-absorbing properties, foam is also a budget-friendly option. Compared to other soundproofing materials, such as specialized acoustic panels or insulation, foam is more affordable while still delivering satisfactory results. It allows you to achieve a noticeable reduction in noise levels without breaking the bank. To enhance the effectiveness of foam-based soundproofing, it is recommended to combine it with other measures like sealing gaps and cracks, using soundproofing curtains or acoustic underlays, you can create a more comprehensive soundproofing solution that suits your budget and enhances the comfort of your HDB flat.

Design: Style Elements Studio

When selecting foam as a soundproofing option, there are a few factors that you should consider:

#1. Foam panels' Noise Reduction Coefficient (NRC) rating is between 0.70 and 0.90

Look for foam products specifically designed for soundproofing or acoustic treatment. These products are engineered to have effective sound-absorbing properties and help reduce echoes and reverberation. Higher Noise Reduction Coefficient (NRC) values indicate better sound absorption, while higher Sound Transmission Class  (STC) values indicate better sound blocking or insulation capabilities. Nevertheless. foam panels typically have an NRC rating between 0.70 and 0.90, indicating their ability to absorb sound across different frequencies. However, foam panels alone may not significantly affect the STC rating, which measures sound-blocking capabilities. While foam panels are effective in reducing echoes and improving acoustics within a room, for better soundproofing, it is recommended to combine them with techniques such as sealing gaps, adding insulation, or using thicker soundproofing materials to improve the overall STC rating.

#2. The recommended density of foam for soundproofing is  around 1.5 to 2.5 pounds per cubic foot (pcf), ranging from 1 to 2 inches

Foam comes in different densities and thicknesses. Higher-density foam generally provides better soundproofing performance. Thicker foam can also enhance sound absorption capabilities. The recommended density of foam for soundproofing is typically around 1.5 to 2.5 pounds per cubic foot (pcf), while thicker foam panels ranging from 1 to 2 inches are commonly used. Denser foam provides better sound absorption, and thicker panels offer improved sound absorption due to increased material mass. However, it's important to consider specific factors such as noise sources, room dimensions, and desired level of soundproofing when determining the optimal density and thickness of foam for a particular application. Consulting with an acoustic specialist can help determine the most suitable specifications for your soundproofing needs.

#3. The foam should ideally come with adhesive backing or be compatible with common adhesives

Look for foam panels or products that can be easily cut or shaped to fit your desired application areas, whether it's walls, ceilings, or other surfaces.  Apply a suitable adhesive, such as 3M Super 77 Multipurpose Adhesive which is a versatile adhesive that is commonly used for bonding lightweight materials, including foam. It offers good initial tack and can be suitable for certain foam panel installations. Specific adhesives designed for foam or acoustic panels available in the market include Foamtak, a spray adhesive developed by Auralex Acoustics, a well-known manufacturer of acoustic treatments. It is designed to provide a secure bond for foam panels on walls or ceilings.

#4. Use foam panels that are flame retardant or have undergone proper fire testing

Ensure that the foam you choose meets relevant fire safety standards to avoid any safety hazards. Look for foam products that are flame retardant or have undergone proper fire testing. Examples include Roxul, a well-known brand in the insulation industry. They produce foam panels with fire-resistant properties, offering reliable fire protection for soundproofing applications.

#5. Select foam products that harmonize with the visual aesthetics of your room and reflect your design preferences

When selecting foam panels for soundproofing, it's essential to consider aesthetics and compatibility. Choose foam products that align with the visual appeal of your room and match your overall design preferences. Look for foam panels that are available in colours, patterns, or designs that complement your existing décor. Additionally, explore options with textured surfaces or fabric coverings for added decorative elements. Ensure that the foam panels blend seamlessly with the overall aesthetic of your HDB flat, enhancing the visual appeal of the space. By prioritizing aesthetics and compatibility, you will be able to strike a harmonious balance between soundproofing functionality and the visual design of your room.

Design: The Real Design

Our simple soundproofing project

In order to assess the efficacy of foam panels for soundproofing, we decided to use them for our living room door. We also used a sound measuring app on our smartphone to evaluate the effectiveness of our soundproofing efforts. By measuring sound levels before and after implementing soundproofing measures, we can assess the reduction in noise and gauge the success of the project. A general guideline is that a noticeable reduction of around 5 to 10 decibels (dB) can be considered a significant improvement in soundproofing.

The installation of the foam panels for this project was completed in approximately 1 hour. Before the installation, we took the readings of the sound levels. In addition. we also prepared the following tools:

1. Measuring Tape: Use a measuring tape to accurately measure the dimensions of the surface and the foam panels.
2. Cutting Tools: Have appropriate cutting tools, such as a utility knife or foam cutter, to trim the foam panels to the desired size.
3. Cleaning Supplies: Gather cleaning supplies, such as a cloth or brush, to ensure the surface is clean and free of debris before installing the foam panels.
4. Adhesive: Select a suitable adhesive specifically designed for foam panels to ensure secure and long-lasting adhesion.
5. Additional Support Materials: Depending on the installation requirements, consider having adhesive strips, mounting brackets, or sealants on hand for added support or gap sealing.
6. Door sweeper: If necessary, acquire a door sweeper to seal the gap between the door and the floor, further enhancing sound insulation.

Design: Ovon Design

Next, the steps outlined below summarised the general approach we took, for the installation of the foam panels

1. Take measurements of the designated surface, in this instance, the living room door, in order to determine the dimensions for the soundproofing installation.
2. Obtain the measurements for each individual foam panel to ensure proper sizing and fit for the soundproofing.
3. Determine the number of foam panels needed to cover the entire surface of the door.
4. Decide on the desired appearance of the foam panels once they are installed. In our situation, we opted to create visual interest by alternating the direction of the foam panels, adding a unique texture to the door.
5. Take measurements of any protruding areas, such as door handles, to ensure that the foam panels are appropriately sized and accommodate these features when installed.
6. Trim the foam panels to the required dimensions using appropriate cutting tools to achieve the desired size for installation.
7. Thoroughly clean the surface to ensure it is free from any dirt, dust, or debris, providing a clean and smooth base for the foam panels to be applied.
8. Coat the back of the foam panels with an appropriate adhesive, ensuring even and adequate coverage for proper adhesion when installing them.
9. Place the foam panels onto the surface, pressing firmly for good adhesion.
10. If necessary, install supplementary support such as adhesive strips or mounting brackets to reinforce the installation of the foam panels, ensuring secure attachment and stability.
11. Where applicable, fill and seal any gaps or cracks between the foam panels and the surrounding surfaces to enhance the effectiveness of the soundproofing. This can be done using suitable sealants to minimise sound leakage.
12. Install a door sweeper to seal the gap between the door and the floor, effectively improving sound insulation and further enhancing the overall soundproofing of the space.

After the installation, we observed that there is around a reduction of around 4 decibels which can be considered as a fairly successful project.