LRV Calculators
Choose which LRV (Light Reflectance Value) Calculator you require.
Stair Nosing LRV Calculator
The recommended Light Reflectance Value (LRV) of a Stair Nosing colour (tread and/or channel) can be found from the guidelines in Building Regulation Documents K & M, and British Standards BS 8300, BS 9266 and BS 5395.
The colour of the Stair Nosing is required to differ from that of the floorcovering on the stairs. Every colour has an LRV between 0 (Black) and 100 (White). There should be at least 30 points difference between the Stair Nosing LRV and the floorcovering LRV, e.g. If the floorcovering has a LRV of 50, then the Stair Nosing should have a LRV of between 0–20 or 80–100. This creates a ‘ladder effect’ which helps the partially sighted when ascending or descending stairs. The Quantum Flooring range of tread and channel (uPVC) colours have LRVs, ranging from 5 to 81.
Enter the LRV number of your floor covering into the LRV calculator below to find out which of Quantum Flooring’s tread colours will meet with Building Regulations guidelines.
Dementia Friendly LRV Calculator
Light reflectance values (LRV) are very important in designing environments for people living with dementia. This is because LRV can affect both mood and way-finding. Dementia patients can experience anxiety crossing a visible line, this can go as far as preventing a patient from being able to cross. Contrast sensitivity is a common visual issue.
Adjoining flooring should be tonally similar, to reduce the risk of falls with flooring LRVs should be within 10 degrees of each other.
Transition strips should match the tones of both flooring surfaces, with an ideal LRV difference of no more than 10 degrees. Skirtings should also contrast with both the wall and the door where possible.
Both DSDC and BS 8300:2018 recommend a minimum difference of 30 degrees of LRV between critical surfaces such as floors to walls, doors to walls, floors to steps or stairs, and on stair or step noses.
