Aluminum or Stainless Steel for Reflectors

[Dan F]

Which is more reflective, polished aluminum or stainless steel?

I am making some reflectors for a hood and was wondering which material would be better as my my father-in-law has access to both for free.

Stainless is more durable, aluminum is easier to work with, but which is more reflective?

 

[pengu13]

aluminum, that would be the choice there is a reason the use it for all grow light hoods. steal can be used but i think they dimple it or paint it flat white.

 

[bob965]

I think the difference will be negligible. Both can be polished to a high sheen.

 

[Conner]

The difference is price. Aluminum will be most likely be cheaper.

I generally use polished aluminum flashing for my reflectors. Its cheap, available in large quantity, and easy to cut and shape.

 

[apriliarider15]

I think the difference will be negligible. Both can be polished to a high sheen.

incorrect, spectral aluminum is 95% reflective and can go as high as 97%. Stainless polished to a "high sheen" would only be about 75% which is less than flat white paint at 85%. The highest reflective material out there is mylar which is 97% and higher.