COOL TOOLS 2025: POWERING PERFORMANCE AND TERMINATING TRADE-OFFS
INTERIOR PAINT: NATURAL INSPIRATION
November / December 2025
Castle Building Centres Group Ltd. is a Canadian member-owned, Lumber, Building Materials and Hardware buying group representing over 300 member locations across Canada.
Contractor Advantage Magazine is the exclusive publication of Castle Building Centres Group Ltd. featuring quality Castle vendor brands available at Castle Building Centres locations.
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Editorial Director Castle Castle Building Centres Group Ltd.
Jennifer Mercieca
Art Direction and Design Espress Labs Inc.
Contributors
Lawrence Cummer
Lisa Gordon
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Jennifer Mercieca
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Published and designed exclusively for Castle Building Centres Group Ltd. by Espress Labs Inc.
On the cover: Makita
NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2025
Volume 30 Issue 6
CONTRIBUTORS CONTRIBUTORS
Lawrence (“Law”) Cummer is a freelance writer and editor and has been a frequent contributor to Contractor Advantage, Ideas and Rough Construction for nearly a decade. Over his more than 20-year career, Law has written about contracting and construction, general business, information technology, health and safety, personal finance and almost every topic in between. He has a passion for storytelling and sharing how people can work better, easier — and “smarter” — from contractors to technologists to business executives.
Lisa Gordon is a freelance writer and editor based in Port Dover, Ontario. For nearly 25 years, she has specialized in creating custom content for trade and association magazines, websites, newsletters and marketing materials. Contact her at mustangmediaservices.ca.
SUSAN ROBERTSON
Susan Robertson empowers individuals, teams, and organizations to Live in Possibility™ so they can more nimbly navigate change. She is a creative thinking expert with over 20 years of experience speaking, consulting, and coaching in Fortune 500 companies. As an instructor on applied creativity at Harvard, Susan brings a scientific foundation to enhancing human creativity. To learn more, please go to: www.SusanRobertsonSpeaker.com.
LAWRENCE CUMMER
LISA GORDON
6 COOL TOOLS 2025: POWERING PERFORMANCE AND TERMINATING TRADE-OFFS
The right tool for the job: the mantra of every professional contractor
What your culture rewards is what your people repeat
THE SECRETS OF VISIONARY LEADERS: WHO THINK POSSIBILITY BEFORE PRODUCTIVITY NATURAL
Warm, earthy tones are driving the latest colour trends in paints and coatings
COOL TOOLS 2025: POWERING PERFORMANCE AND TERMINATING TRADE-OFFS
Written by Lawrence Cummer
The right tool for the job: the mantra of every professional contractor. Having the right tool, at the right time, saves time, reduces effort and improves results.
Every year, Contractor Advantage reaches out to leading vendors to find out which of their products are particularly cool, innovative, exciting or jobsite-worthy.
This year’s standout tools deliver. They cut cords, and just about everything else, and eliminate gas, terminate trade-offs, and power performance, safety and convenience. Whether it’s cordless cutting, precision measuring, airflow control, all-weather starting or easy restoration, the right tool is more than just “cool” — it solves jobsite problems, sometimes before we even know we need it.
MAKING THE CUT
Designed for residential remodelers who need a versatile, lightweight and portable tool, DEWALT’s
new 20V MAX* XR 10” Double Bevel Fixed Miter Saw (DCS714) is the most powerful among DEWALT’s compact 20V MAX* miter saws and the first 10” model compatible with both 20V MAX* and FLEXVOLT batteries. Its adjustment-free Cutline blade positioning system ensures precise results, while the Cut. Capture. Charge. system’s bevel gear transmission maximizes runtime and efficiency. Quick bevel adjustments are simple with bevel pawls, and efficient dust collection captures up to 97% of debris.
Steve Whidden, Commercialization Manager at DEWALT Canada, adds, “Ideal for professionals working with softer materials, it excels in finish work, flooring, trim and baseboard applications. As a 10” fixed saw, it offers enhanced accuracy with less play in the arm and reduced blade deflection compared to larger or sliding models. Its compact size and lighter weight make it easy to carry from room to room and convenient to store in the shop or truck.”
Photos courtesy of DEWALT
Photos courtesy of DEWALT
PRODUCTS THAT AREN’T JUST HOT AIR
Ted Fuller, Vice President at King Canada, highlights several jobsite-ready innovations with a shared focus on airflow and control.
He says his company’s new 60,000 and 125,000 BTU Forced-Air Construction Propane Heaters (KPH-60, KPH-125) are “ideal for the jobsite, with variable output heat settings to control temperature.” Their torpedo-style design includes adjustable front plates to direct airflow, and both models feature safety systems like hightemperature shutoff, flame-out fuel cutoff, and a thermocouple. Fully certified and built for
use with 20 lb propane tanks, they’re ideal for heating spaces where masonry is curing, windows are being installed, or warmth is needed to keep crews productive.
The company’s 1600 CFM High Velocity Air Mover (KC-1600AM) is perfect for drying carpets, entryways in winter, circulating air for drywall or mud curing, and moving air to keep dust clear of your workspace. Three settings, an LCD display and timer let contractors control volume and runtime. “Go home and leave this to shut off at a specific time or duration,” Fuller says.
Photos courtesy of King Canada
SUSTAINABLE CUTTING-EDGE PERFORMANCE
New Razorback Titanium-Coated Oscillating Tool Blades from EAB Tool Company (ExchangeA-Blade) are designed for professionals and serious DIYers, combining durability, precision and versatility to deliver longer cutting life across a wide range of materials.
Says EAB Product Manager Dave Cameron: “At the heart of the Razorback line is its titanium coating, which dramatically reduces wear, resists heat and maintains sharpness through extended use. Whether you’re tackling wood,
metal, or cement board, these blades are built to go the distance.”
The line includes two specialized edge technologies: Speed Edge, which is optimized for fast, clean wood cutting and ideal for framing, trim work and general carpentry; and Tough Edge, a rugged carbide tooth design that cuts through hard materials like metal and cement board with ease. Razorback blades are part of EAB’s sustainable Exchange System that lets users return worn blades for credit toward replacements.
Photos courtesy of EAB Tool Company
A HOT BOOST IN STARTER TECHNOLOGY
Milwaukee’s M18 HOTSHOT Jump Starter (384120) is a first-of-its-kind automotive solution designed for professionals who need reliable performance in all conditions.
“Our M18 HOTSHOT Jump Starter is a new-toworld solution that delivers an always-ready experience, true all-weather performance and longer life,” says Gabriel Caron, Regional Account Manager at Milwaukee Tool. The specs back it up. The HOTSHOT is ready to jump in under 70 seconds — requiring no maintenance or precharging — and built for true all-weather operation (–20.0°C to 50.0°C).
It uses internal capacitors rated for 500,000 cycles and pairs with any M18 battery to deliver up to 2000 peak amps, starting engines up to 8.1L gas and 3.0L diesel. One M18 REDLITHIUM XC5.0 battery delivers up to 70 jump starts per charge.
Photos courtesy of Milwaukee
COLD-CUTTING REBAR WITH LESS SPARKS
Adding to the M18 battery portfolio, Caron also gives a shoutout to Milwaukee’s M18 FUEL #10 (1-1/4”) Rebar Cutter. Designed for the reinforcing ironworker, he says the tool provides “faster cutting, increased cuts per charge and cold cuts with less sparks than an abrasive wheel.”
The product features POWERSTATE Brushless Motor Technology and offers two-second cuts through #5 bar. When paired with the company’s M18 REDLITHIUM High Output XC6.0 battery, the M18 FUEL Rebar Cutter delivers up to 240 cuts in #5 bar.
It boasts easy blade change with a connected cover and limited fasteners. RAPIDSTOP Blade Break provides stop times less than 1 second with the exclusively compatible Milwaukee #10 (1-1/4”)
Rebar Cutting Blade —which uses carbide teeth to cut faster and with less sparks than an abrasive wheel. “The M18 FUEL #10 Rebar Cutter provides the durability and performance to handle the toughest jobsite conditions and takes steel rod cutting to the next level,” Caron says.
HINGING ON INNOVATION
New Hinge Repair Plates (RICHINGEPLATE) from Richelieu are a cost-effective solution to restore damaged cabinets and doors with style and strength. “Our new hinge repair plates provide a quick, versatile and durable solution to repair damaged cabinets or doors, making them stronger and safer while extending their lifespan,” says Martin Robert, Merchandising Manager at Richelieu.
The plates fit most 35 mm North American and European hinges — including Blum, Richelieu,
Hettich, Liberty, Hafele, FGV and DTC — and feature a corrosion-resistant zinc finish for a clean, secure fix. “These plates are easy to install and eliminate the need to replace the entire door or cabinet,” Robert adds.
The hinge plates come in a pack of two with mounting screws for easy three-step installation. Robert calls them, “Perfect for DIY enthusiasts, contractors, cabinet makers and retailers looking for an efficient, cost-effective way to give cabinets a second life.”
Photos courtesy of Richelieu
A TOOL THAT MEASURES UP
A refreshed MegaTrak Tape Measure series from Richelieu’s Task Tool division aims to give contractors everything they need.
Available in five models — including a 25’ x 1-1/4” Left-Handed version — the tape measures each feature a nylon-wrapped blade with an extra 8” of wear protection, a high-impact ABS case and a double-ended magnetic hook with markings on both sides. The new W-blade design delivers a 13’ standout without bending, and an auto-lock mechanism adds convenience and control.
“Contractors often must make sacrifices with the features of a new tape measure,” says Tara Coen, Director of Product and Marketing at Task Tools. She suggests that’s not the case with the new Mega Trak. “It is loaded it with the best of the best features. An auto-locking, uniquely designed w-blade resists bending and twisting at long (13’+) standouts, and the double-sided markings and magnetic tip make it flexible for all applications.”
Photos courtesy of Task Tool
CUTTING THE PNEUMATIC CORD
DEWALT Canada’s Product Commercialization Manager, Miguel Aguado, says his company’s 20V MAX* Atomic Grinders reflect its commitment to cordless solutions built for professionals.
“In metalworking, we first freed users from electrical cords; with our Atomic grinders, we now extend cordless advantages to those who rely on pneumatic tools. No hoses, no complex setup, just powerful performance on a single battery platform. Experience power, speed, precision and safety without compromise.”
The new lineup includes 4” and 5” angle grinders (DCG400, DCG402), a die grinder (DCG420) and a right angle die grinder (DCG422) — all designed for high-power performance in tight spaces. The company says each model packs a performance punch in a compact size for maximum maneuverability. Select models feature DEWALT’s Perform & Protect anti-rotation system, electronic brake, variable speed up to 24,500 RPM, and Tool Connect chip compatibility.
Photos courtesy of DEWALT
A CONCRETE EXAMPLE OF CORDLESS INNOVATION
“Meet the Makita CE001GL401 — the world’s first 14” cordless power cutter running on 80V max (40V XGT x2), delivering gas performance without the gas hassles,” says David Stewart, Makita’s Business Development Manager Sales Ontario. “With a massive 5” cutting depth, instant startup and pro-grade safety features, it’s built to dominate the jobsite — clean, quiet and cordless.”
Powered by two 40V max XGT 8.0Ah batteries, the 80V max (40V max X2) XGT Brushless 14” Power Cutter with AFT and Electric Brake delivers
the cutting depth, RPM and runtime contractors expect from a 75.6cc gas model minus the emissions, noise and pull starts. Its belt-drive design reduces vibration, while an integrated water delivery system supports OSHA Table 1 compliance for concrete cutting. Safety features include Active Feedback-Sensing Technology (AFT), overload protection and a lock-off power switch. Additional highlights: Extreme Protection Technology (XPT), soft start, LED light, aluminum wheels for floor cuts, and a rubberized multiposition handle. The kit includes four batteries and a dual-port rapid charger. —
Photos courtesy of Makita
THE SECRETS OF VISIONARY LEADERS: WHO THINK POSSIBILITY BEFORE PRODUCTIVITY
What your culture rewards is what your people repeat
Written by Susan Robertson
Productivity looks good on paper. It’s measurable. It’s visible. And in many organizations, it’s worshipped. But here’s the problem: productivity isn’t the same as progress.
Many cultures confuse motion with momentum. Leaders celebrate packed calendars, rapid responses, and efficiency hacks, but often fail to ask whether all that movement is taking them somewhere that matters. That’s why visionary leaders think differently. They think in terms of possibility, not just productivity.
Visionary leaders understand that creative thinking doesn’t thrive in a culture obsessed with output. It requires white space. It requires permission. And most of all, it requires a culture that rewards curiosity as much as completion.
Let’s be clear: this isn’t an anti-productivity argument. High-functioning organizations absolutely need discipline, systems, and
execution. But when those become the only things that are recognized, something vital gets lost: the capacity to imagine what could be.
When you reward only productivity, you get compliance. When you reward possibility, you get transformation.
And possibility doesn’t happen by accident; it’s cultivated. It requires leaders to step back and ask not just what their teams are doing, but what they’re allowed—and encouraged—to think about. In cultures built around possibility, it’s normal to wonder out loud. It’s normal to challenge what’s always worked. It’s normal to say, “Let’s try something completely different,” without needing a spreadsheet to justify it.
Here’s how visionary leaders shape cultures that elevate possibility without sacrificing performance:
TRACK CURIOSITY, NOT JUST COMPLETION
Most cultures track deliverables and deadlines but never measure how often someone asks a provocative question, reframes a challenge, or proposes a completely unexpected solution.
Visionary leaders design metrics that reflect their priorities. They create space to ask, “Are we thinking differently, or just doing more of the same?” They evaluate not just the speed of delivery, but the originality of approach.
MODEL CURIOSITY IN PUBLIC
When senior leaders ask questions they don’t have answers to, and do so visibly, they send a signal that exploration isn’t a weakness. It’s a strength. Possibility thrives when leaders say, “I don’t know, but I’d love to find out,” or “What haven’t we tried yet?” That posture becomes contagious. And when it’s reinforced by real follow-through, not just rhetoric, it creates lasting cultural permission.
SLOW DOWN ON PURPOSE
Fast isn’t always better. Visionary leaders create intentional pauses for reflection; team time to step back, question what’s driving the work, and explore alternate paths. This might look like a challenge-framing session, a wild idea jam, or a thinking retreat without an agenda. These spaces shift the default from autopilot to agency. And often, the most valuable ideas surface when no one is overtly trying to be productive.
SPOTLIGHT EXPLORATION, NOT JUST EXECUTION
In most organizations, the person who gets the most done wins. But visionary leaders notice and acknowledge the person who asked the question that redirected the project or surfaced a bold new idea. They don’t wait for quarterly results to measure value; they look for creative contributions in the moment. Recognition isn’t just about what got finished. It’s about what got imagined.
DESIGN THE CULTURE, DON’T JUST DESCRIBE IT
Cultures aren’t changed by willpower. They’re changed by structure. Visionary leaders adjust expectations, language, and workflows to reinforce the behaviors they want to see. That might mean fewer status meetings and more divergent thinking sessions. It might mean swapping “What’s the update?” for “What are we learning?” It might even mean incentivizing questions instead of answers. They remove friction for reflection, and clear a path for creativity.
BUILD THINKING INTO THE WORKFLOW
Visionary leaders don’t treat creative thinking as something that happens off to the side. They embed it into how work gets done. That might mean starting meetings with generative
questions instead of status updates. It might mean using tools that prompt reframing before problem-solving. It might mean allocating time in project cycles for idea expansion before decisionmaking. When creative thinking is built into the actual flow of work, it becomes a natural reflex, not a separate event.
The result of all this? Not just better ideas, but a more adaptive, resilient, and future-ready organization. One where innovation isn’t a onetime event but a cultural norm. One where people aren’t just moving fast, they’re moving forward.
And let’s be honest: this shift doesn’t happen overnight. It requires unlearning deeply ingrained habits, especially for high achievers who’ve built careers on getting things done. The hardest part of possibility-driven leadership is often letting
go of the illusion that productivity equals value. Visionary leaders model the change they want to see before they ask anyone else to do it. They resist the pressure to fill every moment with output. They normalize reflection. They make time for idea generation and inquiry—and protect it like they would any other strategic asset.
They also help others do the same. They train teams to get comfortable with ambiguity, reward experimentation even when it doesn’t pan out, and treat creative thinking as a daily necessity, not an extracurricular.
Because when the work becomes too much about the doing, the thinking disappears. And when the thinking disappears, so does the future.
If your culture only rewards productivity, don’t be surprised when people stop imagining what else is possible. Visionary leaders don’t just get more done. They get more done because they think differently first. —
NATURAL INSPIRATION
Warm, earthy tones are driving the latest colour trends in paints and coatings
Written by Lisa Gordon
As the year draws to a close, paints and coatings manufacturers are clocking a shift from 2025’s vibrant and expressive colours to a more earthy, natural palette for 2026.
“Grounded shades, inspired by materials like wood and leather, provide a practical foundation that pairs well with a wide range of palettes,” said Trevor Maximuk, Director of Sales & Corporate Dealer Development at Cloverdale Paint Inc., a Canadian coatings company founded in 1933 in Langley, B.C.
He added that warm brown tones are becoming prominent in both residential and commercial markets, where a “focus on authenticity, long-term usability and spaces that feel approachable is trending.”
Tones that evoke such elements as earth, stone and foliage will become more popular in 2026, predicted Maximuk.
Paint colour popularity is shaped by a mix of cultural, design and lifestyle influences, he explained. One of the strongest drivers comes from textiles, like fabrics and wallpapers, and flooring materials—and paint will naturally follow these trends to complete the look. Fashion also plays a critical role. Ultimately, paint colours gain popularity when they align with the textures, materials and fashions that people are already embracing.
“Consumers are searching for products that are easy to apply and provide strong durability,” said Maximuk. “Low VOC formulations are important; however, value and longevity have become more sought-after characteristics.”
Recently, Cloverdale released its Guardian Plus Anti-Scuff acrylic interior enamel to the market, which has quickly become one of its most desirable lines.
“Anti-Scuff technology offers extraordinary durability, impeccable washability and unmatched scuff resistance. This 100 per cent acrylic paint provides maximum protection, while being delivered in a low VOC formulation.”
Photo courtesy of Cloverdale Paint Inc.
Maximuk sees the 2026 Canadian paint and coatings market being shaped by numerous factors, including “environmental regulation, rising demand for sustainable products, and innovation driven by performance and weather durability.”
He believes the demand for housing, home renovations and government incentives for green building will likely result in steady growth in the architectural coatings sector. Although colour will remain a major factor, he feels consumers, homeowners, architects and builders will increasingly choose paints for their overall performance, service life and environmental impact.
Maximuk concluded with a positive observation about the paint and coatings market in the wake of international trade tensions: “As we are a Canadian family-owned company, we have certainly seen an increase in support from across the country.”
Photos courtesy of Cloverdale Paint Inc.
WARM AND COMFORTING
Over at The Sherwin-Williams Company, paint colours are also trending more toward green, earthy tones. The 2026 colours of the year are Sage Slate, Surrender and Warm Eucalyptus, reported Andrew Garrison, Sales Manager – Eastern Canada, who has spent 14 years in sales for the Valspar brand (acquired by Sherwin-Williams in 2017). Indoors and outdoors, consumers will be attracted to natural, restorative colours and grounded neutral shades, he predicted.
When it comes to interior stains, Garrison noted the Minwax colour of the year for 2026 is Special Walnut, a warmer, darker tone. “We are seeing a totally different trend shift for 2026; our previous colour of the year was more of a violet.”
Meanwhile, Coffee Bean—a deep, earthy, dark brown—will headline the Krylon spray paint line.
“It’s gone from bold blues and violets, to very neutral tones of browns and greens for 2026,” noted Garrison.
He also reported that two new exterior stain programs, Valspar exterior stain and Cabot heatreducing stain, will officially launch in 2026.
Garrison feels recent changes in colour trends may be influenced by today’s economic uncertainty.
“That neutral, calm, settled feel of ‘I’m at home, I’m at ease, and not dealing with all the stress around me’—that’s more apt to happen when people feel more restricted with their spending,”
he explained. When economic times are more stable, he sees colour trends leaning toward more bold and vibrant hues.
Colours move in cycles, not unlike fashions or home styling, he added, noting a strong shift from cool-toned, minimalist spaces to warm, organic, lived-in spaces. For consumers, colour continues to be a big driver—and they often have an idea of what they like before walking into a store.
However, “quality, durability and value are important, and those are somewhat derived from stain-blocking ability, washability and scrub resistance.”
Price will always be a factor in a consumer decision, but Garrison warned against choosing a paint product based on price alone. “Using a higher quality paint means you are more likely to get tired of the colour before the paint starts to wear down.”
For those looking to follow the current trend by moving away from greys and vibrant shades, paints that will cover a wall with as few coats as possible will be appealing. While Garrison recommended a primer for drastic colour changes, he declared that “exceptional hide” typically means it will be effective at hiding a previously painted surface. While recognizing that painting takes some time due to the prep work, application and reassembly of the room, Garrison advised that “a high-quality paint can get the results in one or two coats, and can reduce the overall time spent on that project.”
Photos courtesy of Sherwin-Williams
Photo courtesy of Sherwin-Williams
A REFINED NEUTRAL PALETTE
Barbara Collet, Sales Coordinator at Société Laurentide Inc., sees cooler interior beiges being replaced by warmer tones inspired by sand, clay, wheat and raw linen. Adding rich evergreen, eucalyptus and moss tones will bring calming and grounding energy indoors, she said, while dusky blues and teals with muted mid-tones are gaining strength. Earthy reds and terracotta shades are returning as accent walls and decor pairings, adding warmth and depth to neutral spaces.
Collet announced that Laurentide introduced two new recycled paint products to the Canadian market in 2025.
“These two products helped launch the Boomerang Plus+ line within the Boomerang family of products, while maintaining our commitment to sustainability,” she said.
Photo courtesy of Laurentide Inc.
In the spring, Laurentide launched Boomerang Plus+ Tint Base Recycled Paint.
In the summer, it expanded its lineup with the addition of Boomerang Plus+ Kitchen and Bath Recycled Paint.
“Moonlight White, a warm white, blends beautifully with kitchen and bathroom renovation projects; this type of white should continue to be highly popular in 2026,” she said.
Collet explained that each year, Natural Color System (NCS) collaborates with specialists worldwide to define the major chromatic trends.
“Our colour inspirations are based on the international NCS Colour reference, a company with more than 80 years of expertise.”
For 2026, the “Quietude” collection highlights a refined palette of neutrals, she added.
When it comes to exterior paints and stains, Collett said, “Our exterior selection remains faithful to classic tones, reflecting the stable nature of this market where trends evolve more slowly.” She sees dark exteriors remaining strong, with undertones shifting toward charcoal,
espresso and near-black browns. Olive and sage greens are perfect for blending with outdoor surroundings. Transparent or semi-transparent stains that highlight the natural grain of wood are in demand, she continued, while subtle off-whites or sandy undertones are popular for coastal or modern rustic looks.
“The cold greys of the 2010s have almost disappeared, being replaced by warmer, more organic alternatives. Bright primary reds, blues and yellows are less anticipated in living spaces, where softer, layered palettes feel more comforting and modern.”
Many factors drive colour popularity, added Collet, including sustainability and nature, well-being and emotional balance, economic and social climate, fashion and lifestyle influence, and technology.
“In 2026, green will stand out as the must-have shade,” she predicted. “Our Evergreen and Lichen colours will be consumers’ source of inspiration.”
Finally, for 2026, Collet said one of the company’s most exciting initiatives will be the relaunch of the Laurentide brand, which will “combine our legacy of quality with a renewed focus on high-performing paint.”
Photo courtesy of Laurentide Inc.
COLOUR THAT TELLS A STORY
Oriana Gagnon Martinez, Marketing Manager for The Pittsburgh Paint Company (PPG), said CIL® and SICO® offer a wide range of high-quality interior and exterior paints and stains. Depending on their needs, consumers will be looking for everything from durable finishes for high-traffic areas to fade-resistant exterior paints that withstand Canada’s diverse climate.
“Our commitment to innovation, sustainability and local manufacturing ensures that every can of paint delivers lasting colour Canadians can be proud of,” said Gagnon Martinez.
This fall, Canadians are embracing rich, grounded hues that reflect a desire for warmth, comfort and connection to nature.
“Deep mauves, like our 2025 Colour of the Year, Starry Night, and dusty pinks continue to add sophistication and softness to interiors,” she said. Rich greens and earthy neutrals are favourites among consumers looking to create a calm and timeless atmosphere.
With 2026 fast approaching, PPG introduced its first Canadian Colour of the Year: Boreal Forest, a deep, balanced green which Gagnon Martinez said was inspired by Canadian landscapes.
“We assembled a panel of colour and design experts from all over the country to help us pick a colour that truly resonates with Canadians.” She feels the colour adds a sense of serenity indoors and harmonizes beautifully with natural materials like wood, linen and stone. If used outdoors, deep greens will pair effortlessly with classic architectural elements and neutral trim colours, she added.
Complementary fall tones include Siennese Brown, a rich, clay-inspired shade that bring warmth and depth, and Van Gogh’s Wheatfield, a golden hue that add vibrancy and contrast to more grounded palettes.
“Together, these colours capture the essence of Canadian autumn: cozy, sophisticated and deeply connected to the land,” she explained.
For exterior stains, natural and wood-inspired finishes move towards warmer, organic tones that highlight the wood grain rather than conceal it. Rich wood shades like Cedar, Driftwood, and Walnut Brown will continue to be top picks for decks and siding. Those looking for a more modern, coastal feel can opt for lighter stains, said Gagnon Martinez. “These tones pair beautifully with deep green or charcoal accents, creating cohesive outdoor spaces that feel both contemporary and inviting.”
Photos courtesy of SICO
Colour popularity is shaped by a combination of cultural influences, emotional needs and lifestyle shifts. Gagnon Martinez feels Canadians are increasingly looking for colours that bring comfort and reflect their own connection to nature. Other factors impact how consumers want their spaces to feel—whether it be calming, uplifting or energizing. “Broader design and fashion trends also play a role, as do global events.”
She concluded by noting that in recent years, there has been a move toward earthy, restorative hues that promote balance and mindfulness. Expressive accent colours are being used to help consumers showcase their individuality.
“Ultimately, popular colours resonate because they tell a story about how we live, what inspires us and the mood we want to create in our homes,” she concluded.
As we head into 2026, consumers searching for design inspiration need look no further than out their windows, where warm, earthy tones are setting the stage for a very grounded year to come. —
Photo courtesy of SICO
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