what material for reflector

I am wanting to change my lighting setup. I was wondering what kind of reflector material to use. My lights will consist of 3 175 mh and 4 to 8 t-5. I will need it to be 96 long and 24 wide. Again, just curious what material to use and any good cheap places to find it.
thnaks for any advice you have.

 

I have use the Shinny side of aluminum Foil....?? Deff cheap.. and it works but not as good as todays reflector set ups....


Good Luck..!!!

 

You can purchase parabolic reflectors in what ever length you want. I got mine 72" long from Richmond Aquarium. PM Tangster and he can get you one, he is the one I got this one through.

 

If you have access to it go for Miro Aluminum... Unless you are a fabricator though I doubt you have access to it. PLUS trying to DIY a reflector will be pretty darn tough!!!

Remember this hobby isn't about scimping, especially with lighting!

If you DO make one though, takes some pics and post them!!

Good luck!

 

what about using mylar? is that any good? indoor growers use this

 

As a reflector needs to be close to the light, I don't think mylar, being made of plastic is a good idea so close to a hot light... But that's just one fellow's opinion.

 

aluminum flashing, reflective gutter tin.....

 

I believe you can get a solar tube type reflective material from Home Depot for fairly cheap, you just have to straighten it out.

 

For a reflector to work well, it has to have pretty exacting bend angles. I love DIY, but DIY reflectors unless you are copying a good one is not a good idea, to many things to making one work well. Just spend the money on a decent reflector and you will have much much more light into the tank.

Kim

 

thx for all ur help