How Effective Is Spray Foam for Reducing Noise?
Unwanted noise from traffic or adjacent rooms reduces home comfort. One of the most effective ways to fix these noise issues is by using spray foam insulation tested for soundproofing performance. For example, Krakenbond FastCoat Insulation Foam provides 48.8 dB of sound reduction at 1600 Hz, according to EN ISO 717-1, a recognized European standard for airborne sound insulation. This guide explains how spray foam works to create a quieter, more comfortable home.
How Can Spray Foam Stop Sound Through My Walls?
Sounds like voices and television noise travel easily through the hollow space in interior walls. This cavity can act like an echo chamber, amplifying sound before it reaches you. Closed-cell spray foam fills these gaps and absorbs sound energy effectively.
Lab data shows:
- High-quality spray foams can reduce mid-frequency noise (like human speech) by up to 48.8 dB at 1600 Hz when installed correctly.
This means you’ll hear significantly less conversation and TV noise coming through shared walls.
Can I Quiet My Floors and Ceilings with Spray Foam?
Yes. Footsteps from an upper floor or sounds rising from a basement are common disturbances. Applying acoustic spray foam between the floor joists addresses both airborne and impact noise.
The foam creates a dense, seamless layer that dampens vibrations traveling through the building’s structure. It bonds directly to the subfloor and joists, turning a hollow space into a solid, sound-dampening mass. This makes it one of the best insulations for soundproofing between floors, significantly reducing noise transfer and creating a more peaceful environment.
The following video measures footfall noise before and after spray foam is injected between floor joists. Using a calibrated sound meter, it records an average 20 dB reduction. Watch to see clear proof of how effectively spray foam quiets the floor.
Will Spray Foam Block Loud Noise from Outside?
Yes. Exterior noise from traffic, lawn equipment, or neighbors often enters through tiny cracks in walls. Closed-cell spray foam creates an airtight seal, blocking these air gaps that transmit sound.
According to EN ISO 717-1 testing, spray foam insulation can block around 48.8 dB of noise at key frequencies, which makes a big difference in urban or noisy suburban areas. So the definitive answer to "Is spray foam good for soundproofing?" becomes clear when you notice a dramatic reduction in outside noise after installation.
How Does Spray Foam Compare to Other Insulation Materials?
While spray foam excels at sealing gaps and absorbing sound, it helps to see how it stacks up against common alternatives. The table below summarizes typical lab-tested noise-reduction values so you can gauge the acoustic return on each option.
|
Material |
Noise Reduction (dB) |
|
Spray Foam (EN ISO 717-1) |
48.8 dB at 1600 Hz |
|
Mineral Wool |
~45 dB at 1000–2000 Hz |
|
Fiberglass Batts |
~38–40 dB at 1000–2000 Hz |
(Values are typical and may vary by product and installation.)
As the numbers show, high-quality spray foam delivers the highest mid-frequency sound drop, giving it a clear edge for both wall cavities and exterior envelopes where speech, TV noise, and urban traffic are primary concerns.
Conclusion
Spray foam insulation forms an airtight seal that blocks noise paths and its open-cell structure absorbs remaining sound, delivering powerful soundproofing. At the same time, that same seal locks in heat and prevents drafts, so one upgrade handles both acoustic comfort and energy savings.
Browse OneClickDIY’s range of sound-blocking, energy-saving spray foams and accessories, pick the perfect kit, and start enjoying a quieter, more efficient home today.
Frequently Asked Questions about Spray Foam Soundproofing
How does spray foam insulation reduce noise in walls?
Spray foam insulation fills the empty spaces within walls, creating a solid barrier that eliminates air paths through which sound travels. This expansion and sealing action effectively traps and deadens sound waves. For more details on how spray foam works, you can read our guide on DIY Spray Foam Insulation: Step-by-Step Application & Safety Guide.
Which type of spray foam is best for soundproofing?
Open-cell spray foam is generally better for sound absorption due to its porous structure, which effectively traps and dampens sound waves. Closed-cell foam is denser and provides a stronger barrier against air and moisture, also helping to block low-frequency sound. For a detailed comparison, see How Do Open-Cell and Closed-Cell Spray Foam Differ?.
Does spray foam offer benefits beyond soundproofing?
Yes, beyond sound control, spray foam significantly improves thermal insulation by preventing energy loss through air leaks. This leads to lower heating and cooling bills. It also acts as a barrier against dust, pollen, and insects. You can explore more benefits in What Is the R-Value of Spray Foam Insulation and Why Does It Matter?.
Is spray foam a 100% soundproof solution?
Spray foam is a highly effective component for sound reduction. While no single material can make a room completely "soundproof," spray foam offers one of the most significant improvements you can make. It is a foundational step for creating a much quieter space.