Dulux Paint Contrast Calculator

Contrast Ratio Formula:

\[ \text{Contrast Ratio} = \frac{L1 + 0.05}{L2 + 0.05} \]

Contrast Ratio:

1. What is the Contrast Ratio?

The contrast ratio measures the difference in luminance between two Dulux paint colors. It's a crucial metric in accessibility standards and visual design to ensure text and elements are easily distinguishable.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the WCAG contrast ratio formula:

\[ \text{Contrast Ratio} = \frac{L1 + 0.05}{L2 + 0.05} \]

Where:

\( L1 \) — Relative luminance of the lighter Dulux color (0-1)
\( L2 \) — Relative luminance of the darker Dulux color (0-1)
0.05 — Constant offset to handle very dark colors

Explanation: The formula calculates the ratio between the perceived brightness of two colors, with higher ratios indicating better contrast.

3. Importance of Contrast Ratio

Details: Proper contrast ratios are essential for accessibility (WCAG compliance), readability, and visual hierarchy in interior design and architectural applications using Dulux paints.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter relative luminance values between 0 and 1, ensuring L1 is greater than L2. Luminance values can be obtained from Dulux color specifications or color measurement tools.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What are the WCAG contrast ratio requirements?
A: AA level requires 4.5:1 for normal text, 3:1 for large text. AAA level requires 7:1 for normal text, 4.5:1 for large text.

Q2: How do I get relative luminance values for Dulux colors?
A: Use color measurement tools, Dulux color specifications, or convert RGB values using the relative luminance formula.

Q3: What is considered a good contrast ratio?
A: Ratios above 4.5:1 are generally acceptable for accessibility, while ratios above 7:1 provide excellent contrast.

Q4: Can this calculator be used for other paint brands?
A: Yes, the contrast ratio formula works for any colors, but this calculator is specifically designed for Dulux paint applications.

Q5: Why is the 0.05 constant used in the formula?
A: It prevents division by zero and accounts for the non-linear perception of brightness in very dark colors.