SANTA ROSA BEACH – November 01, 2026 -- Before you commit to a gallon of paint, a number printed on the chip can tell you how light or dark a color will feel on your walls. It's called light reflectance value (LRV), and a new HelloNation article draws on insights from Wendy Anguiano, an interior design expert in Santa Rosa Beach, Florida, to explain how to use it.
LRV scores a color from 0 to 100 by the light it reflects
Light reflectance value measures the visible light a color reflects rather than absorbs. Lower numbers mean darker colors, and higher numbers mean lighter ones. Paint companies often list the figure on chips, fan decks, or their websites.
The article groups lighter shades at around 60 to 80, mid-tones at around 30 to 60, and deeper shades below about 30. Homeowners can use those ranges to compare options before testing them on the wall.
Rooms with small windows can benefit from higher values
Higher-LRV colors can help bounce available light around rooms with small windows or limited natural light. Darker shades can create a more intimate atmosphere, but they can also make those spaces feel darker.
Brighter rooms call for a different approach. Strong sunlight reflecting off very light walls can create glare, while a slightly lower value may produce a softer effect. Anguiano notes that a higher value is not always better, since very light walls can feel harsh in strong sun and deeper shades can support a cozy feel.
Ceilings and trim matter too. Differences in reflectance create noticeable contrast, while closer values blend together.
Two colors with the same LRV can still look different
The number describes lightness, not undertone. Two colors with similar values may read quite differently, with one appearing warm and the other cool. Sheen and changing light conditions also affect how a color looks.
The article recommends viewing wall samples at different times of day and under artificial lighting.
Exterior paint adds heat and warranty limits
Darker exterior colors absorb more heat. Siding manufacturers may also restrict color choices to protect materials and warranties.