Measuring and installing foam for vlogging

If you have read our blog on how acoustic foam can be used to improve the sound quality and overall production values of your YouTube and podcast content, you may be interested in knowing how to measure up your recording space in order to order your own acoustic foam. As a material that can assist in reducing reverberation, sound reflections and flutter echoes in recording spaces, it comes in a wide range of shapes and specifications. More so, it can greatly improve the quality of your creative output.

Firstly, you need to have an idea of which acoustic foam is best for you. Most commonly, it is found in two shapes: flat chamfered or convoluted. Convoluted foam (also known as egg crate foam) offers a greater surface area, with such irregularities better absorbing sound waves that approach from a range of different angles. Though it looks a little 'bulkier', it is the best option when trying to achieve the highest quality sound recording with little reverberation. However, flat chamfered foam is just as effective, and is considered by many as the minimal looking and more subtle option. Regardless of your choice, both of these acoustic foams come with self-adhesive backing, which makes it incredibly easy to peel off the protective sheet and simply fix the panel to the required wall.

Before measuring your space, it's worth thinking about how thick you would like your acoustic foam. At eFoam, we currently supply Pyrosorb-S Class 0 acoustic foam at thicknesses of 6, 12, 25 and 50mm. Considered the industry standard, the most common thickness is 25mm which can be attached to walls, ceilings, doors, floors and other features of a room to best control vibration, echoes and noise levels.

For each wall in the room, be sure to measure both the wall-to-wall width and height, avoiding any skirting boards. For any additional areas, such as a door, measure both the width across and the height from floor to the top of the door itself. Then, input your measurements into our handy online tool to receive a quote for Pyrosorb-S Class 0. Alternatively, if your space allows, we do offer pre-cut acoustic foam sheets in measurements 100cm x 100cm and 200cm x 200cm, which can then be easily lined up together to fit a room of equal measurements.

To achieve superior sound quality, we recommend that each feature within a space is covered with acoustic foam. For extra soundproofing quality, we also recommend the use of acoustic foam bass traps which are designed to further control the acoustics and reverberation characteristics in recording environments. Designed in a 'wedge' shape, they allow for easy placement in corners and offer greater flexibility when fitting foam to more demanding architectural environments. For even greater bass absorption, these traps can be stacked to form a wall cluster, protecting from both floor to ceiling. These bass traps can be purchased in a range of styles and sizes, depending on your requirements.eFoam also provides a professional range of acoustic foam panels and bass trap 'kits' for a more superior acoustic foam solution.

For personalised guidance and advice on purchasing acoustic foam for your recording environment, please contact one of our expert advisers.