SHINING A LIGHT ON REFLECTIVE MATERIALS
of prepping bare surfaces by purchasing a paint and primer in one product . While perusing paint labels , you might also consider a paint that contains a mold control additive that can help limit the development of mildews , molds and fungi in wet or humid locations like floors , tabletops and benches .
Mylar – is the brand name of a variety of chemically stable polyester film that can be highly reflective . Think shiny Mylar balloons and you have the general idea . This material is also referred to as BoPET , short for its technical description : biaxially oriented polyethylene terephthalate . Mylar can be up to 97 % reflective , and is available in thicknesses of 1 mm and 2 mm , and in smooth and textured finishes . It is popular for use in grow tents , where this extruded and stretched product is bonded to the interior walls , ceiling and floor , while a thick canvas fabric is used for the outer shell . Mylar is also sold in rolls . It has the advantages of being effective and flexible .
Avoid using aluminum foil as a reflective material .
Mylar reflects heat and may retain moisture long enough for it to become a problem . The 1-mm sheets can be fragile , and may lose effectiveness over time through the action of moisture , dust and dirt accumulation and the transfer of body oils through physical contact . Smooth Mylar sheets are known for producing hot spots , especially when scratched , creased or otherwise deformed . Most experts recommend paying a little more for patterned Mylar because it reduces instances of hot spots and broadcasts light the best .
Foylon – Possessing many of the same characteristics of Mylar , Foylon is a laminate made of spun polyester fabric and aluminum . It is widely considered more rugged and durable than Mylar and has a reflectivity of 95 %. Foylon is tear-resistant , which makes it relatively easy to position , clean , reposition and maintain . Like Mylar , Foylon also reflects heat , and using it may require increasing the ventilation in an enclosed space .
Black and White Polymer – This synthetic poly film is white on the front and black on the back . In part , this is to help block exterior light and maintain photoperiod integrity . Poly has a 90 % reflectivity rating . It is also waterproof and algae , mold and mildew resistant . Poly is often recommended for DIY projects because it ’ s durable and easy to work with . For heavy-duty applications , consider the thicker 6-mm rolls .
Reflective Microfiber – This fabric product has up to 94 % reflectivity and excellent diffusion thanks to the scatter pattern produced by the millions of compressed fibers on its surface . It isn ’ t as critical to maintain a smooth wall or other surface when using reflective microfiber fabric because this product ’ s enhanced diffusion features make hot spots less of an issue .
Reflective microfiber is also tear-resistant , mold resistant and easy to clean . Although it has a black , light-blocking exterior surface like poly film , it is a very different product , with better diffusion and reflectivity .
Additional Tips
There are a couple of other things to consider when adding a reflective material to your grow space . Reflected light is most effective in close proximity to plants . This is one time when “ roomy ” isn ’ t an advantage . If the airflow is good , the closer the plants are to the reflective material , the more they ’ ll benefit . Remember the inverse square law .
“ Reflective films like Mylar should hang smooth and wrinkle free . Ripples and wrinkles are what cause hot spots , and even minor imperfections like scratches and small tears can have negative consequences .”
Installation planning is another important consideration . Reflective films like Mylar should hang smooth and wrinkle free . Ripples and wrinkles are what cause hot spots , and even minor imperfections like scratches and small tears can have negative consequences . If you ’ re looking for an easier way to install these types of materials , try using adhesive hook-and-loop tape . Once the tape is mounted , adding the panels in a way that will produce a smooth finish is easier and incurs less risk of accidentally tearing the film than using staples , glue , tacks or nails . If you ’ re careful , this option also has the advantage of allowing you to more easily reposition panels or remove and install them in another location later .
84 Maximum Yield USA | June 2016