A glossmeter measures the gloss or sheen of a surface using gloss units (GU) based on a reference measurement using black glass. It includes a light source and an optical sensor, and the angle of measurement affects readings. It can be used for various materials and applications, including building finishes. A basic example is testing marble or stone floors for gloss levels.
A glossmeter is a tool used to quantify the gloss or sheen of a surface. This device measures specular reflection, or the amount of light reflected from a surface. The glossmeter relies on gloss units (GU) to express degrees of gloss and gloss. This unit is based on a reference measurement using black glass, which has an GU of 100. The higher this value, the higher the glossiness of the surface being measured, with values in the thousands possible on high gloss materials.
The average glossmeter fits in the palm of your hand and is comparable in size to a calculator or smartphone. It includes a light source, which can be applied to the surface during measurement to create a fixed lighting condition. The glossmeter also includes an optical sensor used to calculate specular reflection. A screen on the device provides the OJ of the surface. Different glossmeters are designed for specific projects and applications and may not be suitable for all jobs.
When measuring the gloss of a surface, the angle of the glossmeter can greatly affect the readings. For high-gloss surfaces, the gauge should be held at a small angle to the material. Medium-gloss finishes require a medium angle, usually between 50 and 70 degrees. Low-gloss applications generally provide the highest level of accuracy when the gauge is held at an acute angle to the surface. Metals tend to be less angle-dependent than other materials, and some products, such as plastics or vinyl, have industry-specific fixed lighting angles.
These tools can be used to measure everything from automotive trim to furniture. They can also be applied to prints and paper as well as plastic or specialty coatings. The gloss meter can also be used to measure the sheen of building materials and finishes within a completed building project.
For a basic example of the glossmeter and its benefits, consider marble or stone paving designs. These surfaces are often highly polished to bring out their natural color and beauty. This tool can be used to test a newly installed marble floor to determine if it meets project specifications. It can also be used to measure the sheen on an existing stone floor to show homeowners the potential benefits of refinishing or renovating the floor. By taking a second gloss meter reading after the restoration is complete, the contractor can provide measurable data on the improvement in the gloss or gloss of the floor.
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