Quote Originally Posted by hoodedclum
Yeah tin foil actually absorbs more light than it reflects, your better of with a bare wall.
That is incorrect. Aluminum foil has about a 90% reflectivity (Aluminum is an excellent visible light reflector, actually. It is used to coat telescope mirrors, and with enhanced coatings can achieve >98% reflectivity). The problem is not the reflectivity, it is the lack of diffusion. The shiny side of the foil creates hot spots and dark patches, because of the smoothness of the surface - it doesn't diffuse the light, the way white walls do. The dull side is a little better (depending on brand - if you cannot see a clear reflection of yourself in it, it's suitable), and will do if you have absolutely nothing else available. But, Mylar is better in the long run, and it is also more durable. Foil tears very easily.

Flat white paint is the very best, as Zandor says, since it completely avoids hotspots and it can have as high as a 92% reflectivity, give or take.
Beeblebrox.420 Reviewed by Beeblebrox.420 on . mylar vs tin foil the big question i have hooked up with some old friends and discovered not only r they still smokers but, but they have great grows goin and i mean great, the proper set up 2 a t, my question is , iv heard u can use the dull side off tin foil as a substitute 4 mylar is this true? and what about linin the walls with dry wall with the reflective layer on it? would the dry wall b a waste off time and energy? and will the file work? i live in ireland so if any1 knows where 2 get mylar in this country dont b shy let Rating: 5