Top 5 Mistakes When Installing Acoustic Panels and How to Avoid Them

Achieving Perfect Results with Proper Acoustic Panel Installation

Installing acoustic panels is an excellent way to improve the appearance and functionality of any room. However, achieving a flawless installation requires careful planning and attention to detail. Mistakes made during installation can lead to wasted time, money, and suboptimal results. That’s why avoiding common acoustic panel installation mistakes is so important.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through 5 common mistakes when installing acoustic panels and provide expert advice on how to avoid them. These tips will ensure that your panels deliver optimal results while maintaining their integrity for years to come.

1. Not Inspecting the Panels on Delivery

Acoustic panels should be checked for damage as soon as they arrive. Shipping can sometimes cause dents, cracks, or surface imperfections that may not be immediately noticeable but can affect the panel’s performance and appearance.

How to Avoid It:
Inspect the panels thoroughly upon delivery and before installation. If you find any damage, contact the supplier right away to arrange for a replacement. This will save you from starting the installation with faulty panels.

2. Inaccurate Measurements and Poor Preparation

Even a small mistake in measurements can cause panels to fit poorly, resulting in gaps that compromise both the aesthetics and function of the panels. Improper cuts also waste material, which adds unnecessary costs to your project.

How to Avoid It:
Always take your time to measure carefully. Start by measuring the total wall surface and plan your layout before cutting the panels. If you have obstacles like light switches or electrical outlets, make sure to mark them ahead of time. Once the measurements are in place, double-check everything before cutting. And as the old saying goes, “measure twice, cut once.”

3. Installing Panels in High-Humidity Areas

Many people don’t realize that acoustic panels can suffer from exposure to moisture. Standard panels can warp, swell, or develop mold when installed in humid spaces like bathrooms or basements. This damages both the panel and its ability to function properly.

How to Avoid It:
Before installation, assess the room's humidity levels. If you're working in a space that’s prone to dampness, choose panels designed to resist moisture. Our AquaGuard Slat Wall Panels are a great option for such environments. These panels are waterproof, ensuring they maintain their integrity even in high-humidity areas, while also providing the same aesthetic appeal and functionality as standard acoustic panels.

We've written a blog post about Why Waterproof AquaGuard Panels Are the Smart Choice for Your Bathroom. 

4. Installing Panels Over Wallpaper

While it’s possible to install acoustic panels over wallpaper, it is generally not recommended if you are using adhesive. Wallpaper paste cannot provide the necessary strength for the panels to adhere securely.

How to Avoid It:
If you want to install panels over wallpaper, the best approach is to screw the panels into the substrate behind the wallpaper . If you prefer to use adhesive, you must remove the wallpaper before installation to ensure a secure bond and avoid any issues down the line.

5. Installing Panels Near Direct Heat Sources

Installing acoustic panels near direct heat sources like cookers, radiators, or electric fires can damage the panels over time. The heat can warp or discolour the material, reducing both the performance and the lifespan of the panels.

How to Avoid It:
Always ensure that panels are installed away from areas with direct heat, such as near cookers, radiators, log burners, or electric fires. If you're installing in a kitchen, be mindful of proximity to heat sources like kettles.

Key Takeaways for a Flawless Finish

Achieving the perfect installation of your acoustic panels doesn’t have to be difficult. By following these tips, you can ensure a clean, professional finish while preserving the performance of your panels.

To recap, always remember to:

• Measure carefully to avoid gaps and waste.

• Use moisture-resistant panels in high-humidity areas.

• Inspect panels for damage before installation.

• Remove wallpaper if adhering panels to the wall, or screw them in for added strength.

• Keep panels away from direct heat sources to avoid damage.

With these tips, you’re ready to install your acoustic panels like a pro. Enjoy the benefits of a stylish, functional space with minimal hassle!