> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.paintsight.com/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Paintsight preview accuracy and color match limitations

> Understand what Paintsight previews show, how accurate they are, and what factors like lighting, sheen, and surface texture can affect the result.

Paintsight previews are designed to help homeowners visualize a color and approve job details — not to guarantee an exact color match. Understanding what the preview shows, and what can affect the result, helps you set accurate expectations with every customer before the crew starts.

## What the preview shows

The preview is a generated image showing how the selected paint color would look on the chosen surface in the provided photo. It gives the homeowner a realistic sense of the color before production starts. The preview is paired with the paint brand, color name, color code, and surface details so the homeowner is approving a specific, documented choice — not just a visual impression.

## Factors that can affect accuracy

Several real-world variables mean the finished surface may look different from the preview image. Share these with homeowners before they sign off so there are no surprises after the job.

<CardGroup cols={2}>
  <Card title="Screen settings" icon="monitor">
    Colors may look different on different monitors, phones, and tablets. Encourage homeowners to view the approval in good lighting on the device they normally use at home.
  </Card>

  <Card title="Surface texture" icon="layers">
    Rough or textured surfaces — brick, stucco, wood grain — can affect how the final paint looks compared to the preview. The preview reflects a smooth rendering of the color.
  </Card>

  <Card title="Lighting conditions" icon="sun">
    The original photo was taken in specific light. The finished surface will look different in morning vs. afternoon light, and under artificial light vs. natural light.
  </Card>

  <Card title="Sheen differences" icon="sparkles">
    Flat and matte finishes absorb light; gloss finishes reflect it. This affects how the color reads in person, even when the color code is identical.
  </Card>
</CardGroup>

## Paintsight does not replace physical samples

<Note>
  Paintsight helps the customer narrow down a color and approve the job details. Final color can still vary because of lighting, sheen, screen settings, and surface texture. Physical paint samples remain the most reliable way to confirm the exact color.
</Note>

<Tip>
  Ask homeowners to view the approval link on the device they normally use at home, in the room or area where the color will be applied, if possible. This gives them the most accurate sense of how the color will read in their actual environment.
</Tip>