How Does Light Reflective Value Affect Paint Color?

LRV and Paint Color

One of the things I’m asked frequently is “How does light reflective value (LRV) affect paint color?”.

light reflective value scale - The Color Coach Palm Desert

First, what is light reflective value? Light reflective value, also known as reflectance, refers to the percentage of light that a surface reflects. A higher light reflective value means that a paint color will appear brighter and more vibrant, while a lower light reflective value means that a paint color will appear darker and more subdued.

The light reflective value of a paint color can also affect how it appears in different lighting conditions. For example, a paint color with a high light reflective value may appear brighter in natural light but may appear washed out or pale in artificial light. A paint color with a lower light reflective value may appear more consistent in different lighting conditions.

Overall, the LRV of a paint color can significantly affect its appearance and can be an important factor to consider when choosing a paint color for a particular space or use. For example, most real estate experts know that using paint color to stage your home for sale is a low-cost but effective way of showcasing your home. A high value LRV paint color would add to the brightness of the room and give it a more airy feeling.

If all of this is too technical for you, The Color Coach Palm Desert has over 8000 clients in the Coachella Valley and can assist you in selecting your perfect paint color palette.