Foam Bench Seat Pad

The last thing you want after spending hours choosing, having delivered, and installing a bench in your garden is to discover that it is extremely uncomfortable to sit on. Dreams of long summer evenings with a glass of wine and a good book may fast become a nightmare. Thankfully, F.C. Hancox are here to help. We can supply a foam bench seat pad cut to size or cushion suitable for a bench or any other piece of garden furniture.

Our Calipore Outdoor Foam is ideal for a situation such as this. Available in either a firm or medium density, our Calipore Foam is designed to be completely waterproof – so you need not worry about bringing your cushions in every night, they will survive a typical British summer. Our Calipore Foam is also treated with an environmentally friendly antibacterial additive, which prevents fungal growth and mould.

As well as these practical benefits, this foam is also extremely comfortable and perfect for use as a foam bench seat pad or a cushion.

If you are unsure which density of foam is best for your needs, our technicians can advise you on what is most suitable. Please call 01202 486956 or email us at info@fchancoxfoam.co.uk. Alternatively, you can use the ‘Ask a Question’ form to the left of the screen and we will respond to your query as soon as possible.

Frequently Asked Questions About Foam Bench Seat Pads

What is the best foam for a bench seat pad?

The best foam for bench seat pads depends upon whether the seat is situated indoors or outdoors. For indoor bench seat pads, we recommend our CMF35H, CMF38 or Reflex 400H because they offer comfort, support and durability. For outdoor benches, our Calipore Outdoor Foam is best, it is available in firm or medium. Calipore is a specialist foam designed specifically for outdoor use.

What foam is best for an outdoor bench seat pad?

Calipore Outdoor Foam is the best choice for outdoor bench seat cushions. Calipore outdoor foam is open celled, allowing moisture to easily pass through and therefore dries quicker than an indoor foam. Also, Calipore Outdoor foam is manufactured with antibacterial properties which help to prevent mould and fungal growth.

Can a foam bench seat pad stay outside?

Yes, if it’s made from and outdoor foam such as Calipore. Calipore foam has been specially manufactured for outdoor use, to withstand rain and other moist conditions. It is used widely in the leisure and marine industries. We would say, however, if you store outdoor foam cushions away rather than leave them outside over winter or prolonged time, they will last longer and the covers stay in better condition.

Can you cut a foam bench seat pad to size?

Yes. F.C. Hancox cuts foam bench seat pads to your exact measurements. We can cut standard shapes such as for square or rectangular cushions as well as triangular, bolster, bullnosed and wedges. We cut irregular and bespoke shapes too. It’s easy to order, just visit our foam-cut-to-size page and follow the simple steps.

What thickness foam should I choose for a bench seat pad?

The right thickness depends on the level of comfort you want and whether you are using existing covers. If you are simply replacing the foam, the size of the cover will dictate the thickness of the foam required. If you are changing to or making new covers, as a guide, we suggest the following thicknesses:

• 50mm – A choice for seating that gets occasional use.
• 75mm – A popular size and commonly found as garden bench seat pads
• 100mm – A comfort thickness where the cushion may get more than usual use.
• 125mm or more – Ideal for premium seating cushions.

The thickness required may also depend on the type of foam that you choose. If you are at all unsure, get in touch.

What is the difference between firm and medium outdoor foam?

Medium Calipore Outdoor Foam offers a softer, more relaxed feel and is ideal for casual seating. Firm Calipore Outdoor Foam provides greater support and is often preferred for frequently used benches or where extra durability is required. The best option depends on your personal comfort preference.

Can I replace the foam in my existing bench seat pad?

Yes. If your existing cover is still in good condition and the foam can be easily removed, then replacing only the foam is a simple and cost-effective way to restore comfort without buying an entirely new cushion.

Is waterproof foam really waterproof?

Calipore Outdoor Foam isn’t waterproof in the sense that it repels water. Instead, it has an open-cell structure, a little like mesh, that allows water to flow through the foam, preventing it from becoming waterlogged. This helps it to dry much more quickly than conventional upholstery foam, which is more like a sponge.

How long does a foam bench seat pad last?

This depends upon the type of foam the cushion is made from and how often it is used. A good quality foam bench seat pad, such as one made from our indoor foams CMF35H, CMF38 or Reflex 400H, or, for outdoors, Calipore Outdoor Foam, can last for many years. Good quality foams such as these are designed to maintain their shape and support.

How do I measure a replacement foam bench seat pad?

The simplest method is to remove the existing cover and measure its length, width and thickness. It’s best to measure the inside dimensions of the cushion cover using the stitching as point to point. We can then cut your new bench seat foam to your exact specifications. If you need help with measuring, you can find details on our How to Measure Foam page.

Can I use indoor upholstery foam outside?

Yes, you can, however it will need to be brought indoors when not in use and stored somewhere dry. The cell structure of indoor upholstery foam acts in a similar way to a sponge. It will absorb moisture and can remain damp for long periods. If you want bench seat pads for outdoor furniture the best choice of foam is Calipore Outdoor Foam which has been specifically manufactured for outdoor use. (Please note that outdoor foam doesn’t comply with the indoor foam regulations and therefore should not be used or taken inside.)

Why choose F.C. Hancox for foam bench seat pads?

Working in the upholstery industry for over sixty-six years, F.C. Hancox is a leading supplier of foam cut to size. We use only the best foams that have been manufactured here in the UK, and all foam is cut in-house at our south coast warehouse by our experienced technicians. We cut foam bench seat pads to your own measurements and instructions so that you get exactly the piece of foam you’ve asked for. We are also happy to answer your queries to ensure that you get just the right foam for you.