Why Measuring Building Material Color Is Important
One of the primary reasons that color is critical for building materials is consistency inside and outside a structure. If a contractor uses a particular type of shingle for a roof, the surface must be uniform in quality and color, or it will severely jeopardize the building’s aesthetics. The same concept applies to vinyl siding or paint.
Color is a stimulant that can affect human perception both unconsciously and consciously. Just like specific colors can dictate a space’s ambiance or mood, inconsistencies within a particular area can create a sense of disarray or chaos. Using the appropriate color measurement instruments during the building process ensures consistent control and monitoring across all products, from ceramic tiles to concrete blocks to coated glass.
Building Materials Color Measurement Methods
Spectrophotometers are perfect for ensuring color consistency in an extensive range of building products. These devices measure color by reflecting controlled light rays off sample materials and analyzing the wavelengths of the reflected light against existing color standards.
Many spectrophotometers can factor in a material’s texture during measurement, a significant consideration for materials with varying degrees of roughness. Spectrophotometers are better options than color charts or human observation for bricks, siding, shingles and other materials due to the high precision of their measurements. They can create accurate numerical standards for color, increasing reliability, repeatability and consistency.
At HunterLab, we develop our color measurement instruments for building materials to meet specific characteristics, including product texture, opacity and thickness. Doing so delivers the highest consistency and accuracy levels while saving you valuable time and money. Our tools allow manufacturers to modernize their color matching process and let contractors ensure consistency during construction.