Aluminum Foil Buyer's Guide

Aluminum foil is a popular multi-purpose product often used in cooking, packaging, and more. Rolls of foil come in a range of thicknesses and sizes to suit different applications.

But with so much choice, it can be challenging to know which type of aluminum foil is right for you.

In this guide, our packaging experts advise on the different types of aluminum foil and the various thicknesses available and help you decide which type you need.

What is Aluminum Foil 
Aluminum foil – sometimes called cooking foil or tin foil – is a thin, malleable sheet made from aluminum metal.

It is commonly used in cooking and food storage due to its ability to withstand high temperatures, provide a barrier against moisture and air, and effectively wrap and protect food items.

What is Aluminum Foil Made From?
Aluminum foil is made primarily from its namesake, aluminum, which is a lightweight and highly malleable metal.

The manufacturing process involves rolling large aluminum sheets into thin strips, which are then further processed to achieve the desired thickness.

The resulting thin and flexible sheets of aluminum become the foil product that is widely used for various purposes, including cooking, packaging, and insulation.

Microns
When shopping for aluminum foil, you will notice products are measured in microns.

A micron is a unit of measurement that represents one-millionth of a meter (0.001 millimeters). It is used to gauge the thickness of aluminum foil.

What are the Different Types of Foils?*
There are many different types of aluminum foil - each with its own unique benefits and use cases. Some have a higher tensile strength, while others are more malleable. The most common types of foil include:

Standard Aluminum Foil: The most common type of foil used for everyday cooking, baking, and wrapping food. Versatile and available in various thicknesses. Some standard foil can be as thin as .0004 mils thick.

Heavy-Duty Aluminum Foil: Thicker and stronger than standard foil, suitable for heavy-duty applications such as grilling, roasting, and wrapping larger food items.

 

Non-Stick Aluminum Foil: Coated with a non-stick surface to prevent food from sticking during cooking and baking.

Pop-Up Aluminum Foil Sheets: Pre-cut and pre-folded aluminum foil sheets, convenient for quick and easy wrapping or covering of food.

Colored Aluminum Foil: Decorative foils are available in different colors, and often used for crafts, gift wrapping, or decorative purposes.

Aluminum Foil Pans: Disposable pans made from aluminum foil, commonly used for baking, roasting, and serving food.

Extra-Heavy-Duty Aluminum Foil: Thicker and more durable than heavy-duty foil, designed for heavier applications. Aside from consumable products, extra heavy duty foil is used for aerospace and medical applications.

Looking for your perfect aluminum foil product for your restaurant or other bulk buying uses? We stock a range of standard, heavy-duty, and extra heavy-duty rolls, sold by the case. Browse our range today.

SHOP ALUMINUM FOIL

Heavy Duty Aluminum Foil vs. Regular Foil
The main difference between regular aluminum foil and heavy-duty aluminum foil is in their comparative strength, thickness, and durability.

Regular aluminum foil is typically thinner, ranging from around 10-18 microns – making it suitable for everyday cooking, baking, and wrapping tasks. While it remains strong and versatile, it may tear when dealing with heavier or more abrasive items.

Comparatively, heavy-duty aluminum foil is thicker and stronger, typically ranging between 18 to 24 microns. It is designed to withstand tougher use cases due to its increased resistance to tearing and punctures, and ability to better withstand higher temperatures.

Heavy-duty foil is better suited to wrapping heavier loads or withstanding more intense environmental conditions, while regular aluminum foil is generally better for smaller, everyday items.

In some applications, a thinner, more pliable standard foil is ideal. Heavy duty aluminum foil does not have the same amount of flexibility, but can withstand applications a regular standard foil will tear.

Looking for a reliable aluminum foil for all your different needs? El Dorado Aluminum Foil comes in both regular and heavy-duty strengths, as well as a variety of lengths, widths, and thicknesses. Shop our range today!

Aluminum Foil Thickness Chart
To help you compare aluminum foil products and find what’s right for you, we’ve put together a table cataloging the measurements for each type of foil thickness, and their unique use cases:

What is the Thickest Aluminum Foil?
The thickest aluminum foil commonly available is typically around 40 microns (.04064 millimeters).

This is known as extra-heavy-duty foil, and offers enhanced strength and durability, making it suitable for demanding applications such as grilling or wrapping large and heavy food items. Once the thickness becomes too much, it is considered tin.

Aluminum Foil Roll Sizes

Aluminum foil rolls also come in various sizes to accommodate different projects and use cases. Common roll sizes include:

• Standard: 12-inches (30 cm) wide and typically available in lengths ranging from 30 to 500 feet (7.6 to 61 meters). Used for everyday cooking and food wrapping. Home use standard rolls are common in thirty and fifty foot lengths.
   
• Jumbo: 18 inches (45 cm) wide and commonly available in lengths ranging from 200 to 1000 feet (61 to 305 meters). Used for large-scale cooking and grilling and even catering projects. Longer jumbo rolls are heavy and can become damaged if an end is crushed.
   
• Extra-wide: Some rolls may be wider than standard or jumbo sizes, often used for specific commercial or industrial applications. May be used in commercial kitchens or for industrial applications. Wider rolls 24 inches or wider can be difficult to handle and transport in good condition. Lengths are commonly less than 500 feet to maintain a manageable weight.

For more information about the different types of aluminum foil and their different applications and uses, visit our Aluminum Foil 101 guide!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: How do I choose aluminum foil? 

A: When choosing aluminum foil, consider the thickness (thicker for heavy-duty use), size (standard or jumbo rolls), and intended purpose (cooking, wrapping, or storing). Look for quality brands that offer durability, heat resistance, and easy handling.

Q: How thick is food-grade aluminum foil? 

A: Food-grade aluminum foil comes in various thicknesses, with the most common being between 10 and 18 microns (0.01 to 0.018 millimeters). Thicker foils are often used for heavy-duty applications, while thinner foils are suitable for general cooking and wrapping purposes.

Q: What is the highest heat for aluminum foil?

A: Aluminum foil can withstand high temperatures up to approximately 660 degrees Celsius (1,220 degrees Fahrenheit) before it begins to melt or become compromised. However, it is important to refer to the specific manufacturer guidelines for safe usage.

Q: What does microns mean in aluminum foil?

A: Microns, in the context of aluminum foil, refers to the thickness of the foil. It is a unit of measurement equal to one-millionth of a meter and is used to quantify the thickness of materials, including aluminum foil.

Q: Is there a difference between the two sides of aluminum foil? 

A: Aluminum foil is made by rolling aluminum sheets, resulting in one side appearing shiny and the other side matte. However, this distinction is solely due to the manufacturing process and does not affect the foil's functional properties. Both sides can be used interchangeably for cooking, wrapping, or storing food without any difference in performance.