Gloss Aluminum vs Steel (Metallic)

How close are they?

ΔE 11.7, fair: the same colour family, but not a straight swap. Steel (Metallic) is noticeably lighter than Gloss Aluminum.

Can I use Steel (Metallic) instead of Gloss Aluminum?

Only where an exact match doesn’t matter, such as a new unit or a highlight. Fair match (ΔE 12). Steel (Metallic) is noticeably lighter than Gloss Aluminum.

Can I use Gloss Aluminum instead of Steel (Metallic)?

The same difference applies the other way round: Gloss Aluminum is noticeably darker.

ΔE is the colour difference between our two swatch estimates: under about 6 is close, over about 15 is loose. Real paints also differ in finish, coverage and how they thin, so test before you commit.