Seashell Gray Valspar 4003-1A

Seashell Gray LRV and undertone

Valspar Seashell Gray (4003-1A) has an LRV of 69.25, placing this light gray toward the brighter end of the paint color range. Light reflectance value measures how much visible light a color reflects, with higher numbers generally indicating brighter-looking walls. Its #DAD9D4 hex value corresponds to a light, muted gray. The calculated undertone is subtly warm, with a yellow influence rather than a distinctly cool cast.

In a room, Seashell Gray can reflect substantial light while retaining more gray depth than a white with a high LRV. Its warm undertone may become more noticeable in some lighting conditions. North-facing rooms often emphasize cooler color qualities, while south-facing rooms tend to provide warmer light. Compare a sample against flooring, trim, and other fixed finishes before choosing a coordinating palette.

Seashell Gray in other brands

Several paints from other manufacturers have measured colors close to Seashell Gray. Sherwin-Williams Drift of Mist (SW 9166) has an LRV of 69.0 and a ΔE of 1.8. Sherwin-Williams Nebulous White (SW 7063) also has a ΔE of 1.8, although its LRV is higher at 74.0. Benjamin Moore Light Pewter (1464) has an LRV of 67.52 and a ΔE of 2.3.

Here, ΔE describes the measured color difference: under 1 is near-identical, 1 to 2 is very close, 2 to 4 is close but visible side by side, and above 4 means only similar. Behr White Metal (N520-1) has a ΔE of 2.4, as does Benjamin Moore Gray Owl (OC-52). These alternatives are useful starting points, but compare physical samples because lighting and finish can change their appearance.

Lighter and darker Valspar alternatives

Valspar Modern Gray (8005-1A) has an LRV of 70, slightly above Seashell Gray’s 69.25, and a ΔE of 0.6. It is near-identical by the measured difference, with marginally greater light reflectance. Valspar Gilded Linen (6002-1A), at 73.84, and Valspar Summer Gray (7006-17), at 80.27, are also lighter alternatives by LRV.

For a darker option, Valspar Tempered Gray (4004-1A) has an LRV of 64.93 and a ΔE of 1.7. Its lower reflectance may suit a room where slightly deeper walls are preferred without moving far from the original color. Test each option on multiple walls and observe it in morning and evening light. A consistent sheen and comparable lighting help make side-by-side comparisons more meaningful.

Before you buy, compare a physical sample with the swatch on Valspar’s page for Seashell Gray.