What’s Hot in Home Colors: A DIYers Guide to the Latest Sherwin Williams Report

Much like the heavily anticipated colors of the year, the Sherwin-Williams bi-annual color report is a great way to get a feel for the upcoming color trends. Whether you’re a designer or a DIYer with an upcoming painting project, this report is a great way to get some inspiration for your next redesign. The predicted color trends for 2026 came out recently; find out what color families are likely going to take the spotlight next year.

What Is the Sherwin-Williams Bi-Annual Color Report?

In short, the Sherwin-Williams bi-annual color report is the brand’s announcement regarding color trends. The Trendsight Team looks at trends in design and puts together a packet detailing the hues that are getting traction. The brief also includes several shades in each color family to get you started.

What Are the Predicted Color Trends for 2026?

Sherwin-Williams identified four color families that it says are going to be big in 2026: frosted tints, sunbaked hues, restorative darks, and foundational neutrals. Across these four families, there are a lot of similar hues, but each family has its own colors as well.

Frosted tints

First on Sherwin-Williams’ list is frosted tints. The company describes this color family as “cool, analogous tones of icy tinted pastels in whispers of blue, green, and purple—a palette of weightless and wondrous colors destined to complement each other in any combination.” It’s certainly the coolest-toned of the four families. The hues bring to mind a winter wonderland setting and cozy nights curled up under a blanket.

Sunbaked hues

If the frosted tints felt like winter, the sunbaked hues sprint to the other end of the calendar. These warm tones evoke the feeling of warm summer days in a desert. Sherwin-Williams says that “the warmth of natural clay, buttery yellow, and intensely enriched red…ignites a nostalgic reverie, dramatic potential, and the confidence to play with color.”

Restorative darks

The restorative darks feel almost academic in nature. The official description of this palette explains that you can “find sanctuary within a sophisticated palette of deep, nocturnal colors chosen to inspire restfulness, release, and a harmonious richness that makes a quietly compelling impact.”

Foundational neutrals

Last but not least are the foundational neutrals. These feel like the lighthearted younger sister of the restorative darks. While there are common colors across the palettes, the foundational neutrals tend to the lighter end of the spectrum. Sherwin-Williams describes them as “the most essential neutrals of the moment [which] expand on the concept of black and white with a gradient of strongly saturated near-black, silvery gray, extraordinary tans and taupes, and sparkling white.”

Source

2026 COLORMIX® Forecast, Anthology: Volume Two, Sherwin-Williams.

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Can a Phone Replace Your Toolbox? How Apps Compare to the Real Thing

The other day, I was hanging a picture on my wall when I realized I’d neglected to grab a level. I was too lazy to go to the shop, so instead, I used the level app on my phone. The picture looked straight, so that got me thinking: Our phones are all-in-one solutions for managing our personal lives, so can they also replace a bag of tools?

We decided to test some hardware apps. Here’s what we discovered in side-by-side comparisons of their effectiveness and accuracy with their physical tool counterparts.

Cell Phone Apps vs. The Real Thing

Ruler Apps

Ruler apps, like Rul3r, are among the most basic hardware and tool apps. They add a ruler along the edge of your smartphone screen, which works mostly like a regular ruler: Just line it up with whatever you want to measure. They are typically free, and they work… kind of.

“Ruler apps have limits,” says electronics manufacturing expert Hommer Zhao. “The screen is too small, and if you move even a little, the measurement can be off. They’re fine for estimating something small like a screw or bolt, but not for detailed work.”

Our testing reinforced this conclusion. Measuring bolts and cabinet hardware was mostly accurate, though just like with an actual ruler, it’s difficult to be precise with finer measurements. They are also limited to measuring items smaller than your cell phone screen, and the rounded edges of the screen add to the challenge.

Tape Measure Apps

Most tape measure apps, like My Measure, are based on augmented reality (AR) technology. They overlay a virtual tape measure onto your phone’s camera. You then click where you want the tape measure to start and stop, and the app tells you the distance between the two points. Some of them also work in 3D.

We tested five different apps. Some were intuitive to use, but not all. More importantly, none were very accurate.

My Measure is one of the most popular, and it measured a piece of 8.5″ x 11″ office paper at 8-5/8″ x 10-1/8″. That inaccuracy threw me for a loop, so I tried it many more times, from different angles and in varying light levels, and never could get it to recognize the correct size. I also tested it on the shop door, which it determined to be 32″ wide, though the door is actually 36″.

Some of the apps also require you to be six or more feet away from the object, which can be tricky if you’re trying to measure something in a smaller space, for example, a dishwasher in a kitchen.

To add to the mess, all of the AR measuring apps I could find required in-app purchases to do all but the most basic functions (and some wouldn’t even calculate a measurement without a subscription). Those averaged about $30 a year; not worth it for DIY or serious construction in my book, especially when accuracy isn’t these apps’ strong suit.

Leveling Apps

Leveling apps come in bubble and laser form, and use the gyroscope and accelerometer in your phone to determine if a surface is level. Most of the apps are free, though some charge a fee for advanced features.

“Some apps can be impressively precise for the casual need of hanging a shelf or figuring out if a surface is level,” says app and electronics expert Nikolay Petrov. “I’ve used them in comparison tests, with digital spirit levels, on job sites, and the difference is often less than 1°, which is plenty good enough for most DIYers.”

Indeed, in our tests, the level apps gave similar results to both our physical bubble and laser levels. However, there was a hiccup with using my iPhone 12. It has buttons on both sides, so it doesn’t sit flat. I ended up placing it vertically, which gave similar readings to horizontal, despite the buttons. With the bubble app, the angle meter also drifted a few tenths of a degree while the phone was sitting on the surface without anyone touching it. Conclusion: These are great for smaller DIY projects, but I definitely wouldn’t build a house with them.

Caliper Apps

Caliper apps are similar to ruler apps, but instead of the ruler being at the edge of the screen, it’s in the middle, along with a virtual, slidable caliper. This theoretically makes a more accurate measurement for smaller items, like screw heads.

“But of course, there are limits,” says Petrov. “I once tested a caliper app when restoring a vintage amplifier. Even with a high-res screen and stylus, it couldn’t go anywhere near my analog dial calipers for ease of use and precision. The app had to be calibrated each time, and screen parallax made fine measurement nearly impossible.”

It’s also tricky to line up the edges perfectly without the physical barriers of the caliper.

Protractor Apps

Like hand-held protractors, protractor apps can help you measure angles. In our tests, the apps proved to be decently accurate for that application, though under certain circumstances, it was difficult to hold the phone steady enough to precisely line up the angles. One task they don’t help well with is drawing a specific angle. So for that, there’s no substitution for an actual protractor or carpenter’s speed square.

Magnifying Glass Alternative

One task in which digital tools can actually top the real McCoy is using your smartphone camera in lieu of a magnifying glass (assuming you have a decent-quality smartphone, and particularly if your phone features a dedicated macro lens for extreme close-ups). This can be handy if you need to read tiny print or if you’re inspecting or soldering small electronics and other micro items. The better-lit an area is, the better this will work.

Thermal Camera Apps

Thermal cameras and their corresponding apps use infrared radiation to display differences in temperature. They are game changers for home inspection and maintenance, helping find everything from faulty wiring and plumbing leaks in the wall, to figuring out where you have air leaking in through windows and doors or are lacking insulation. They are also fun for spying on little mammals in your garden at night.

We put our handheld Ampbank H128 to the test against our Flir One Edge Pro, which connects onto a smartphone. Both gave identical temperature readings in multiple situations, and both offer an array of light spectrum options. The app-based camera takes slightly longer to activate, but has better resolution, since the cellphone screen is larger than the handheld monitor. The app also had the option to outline objects on the screen, to make it more obvious where the temperature gradations are (granted, this particular Flir is higher-end than the handheld model, so perhaps other handheld models offer that option). On the flip side, the handheld felt more rugged, and the battery tends to last longer.

Are Cell Phone Hardware Tool Apps as Good as the Real Thing?

Usually not. If all you need is a quick level for hanging a picture or a ruler to get a rough measurement, apps can be more convenient than having to go find or buy a tool. They’re also good for in-the-field backups. But if exactness matters, then you can’t beat an actual tool in your hand.

“My takeaway here is that apps are great for ballpark and on the go, but they can’t replace the tactile, application-specific tools needed for professional-grade consistency,” says Petrov. “If you’re serious about precision, such as when working on electronics or mechanical items, save the fundamental tools for your kit.”

Zhao agrees. “I do think apps are getting better, and they’re great in a pinch, when the real thing isn’t around, but I wouldn’t trust them as a full replacement.”

About the Experts

• Hommer Zhao is an electronics manufacturing expert and director at OurPCB, where he works closely with digital tools and smart devices in real manufacturing environments.
• Nikolay Petrov is founder and Chief Technology Officer at ZontSound. He has more than a decade of expertise with apps and electronics, including comparing app-based and hardware versions of tools.

Related

• See a Green Dot on Your Android Phone? Here’s What It Means 
• If You Get a USPS Scam Text, You Need To Do This Immediately 
• This Is How Often You Should Restart Your Phone 

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Prevent Frozen Pipes This Winter With This Fall Checklist

If you can prevent pipes from freezing in the winter, you’ll save yourself a lot of trouble, and I speak from experience. A cabin I bought in the Colorado Rockies, where nighttime temperature can dip to 30 below, had pipes running through the attic. They burst before I even took possession of the property, and the cleanup was a huge chore that had to be addressed before I could even start remodeling.

The purpose of this post is to help you avoid that kind of trouble, and we’ve enlisted a panel of plumbing experts to help. When it comes to frozen pipes, an ounce of prevention is definitely worth a pound of cure. So here are nine tips to help you prevent pipes from freezing and avoid the messy cleanup — not to mention the expensive plumbing repairs and the waste of precious water.

What Causes Pipes to Freeze?

The obvious answer is cold temperatures, but that’s really only a partial answer, because it doesn’t explain why all the pipes in a house don’t freeze during a cold snap. What usually happens is that some pipes freeze while others don’t. For example, the pipes feeding the kitchen and bathroom in my Colorado cabin remained intact during the cold winter while those in the attic froze.

To answer the question more accurately, one reason pipes freeze in the winter is because of exposure to cold temperatures. Burst pipes are more common outdoors or in the basement or attic because these areas are usually unheated and not well insulated. Another reason pipes freeze is because the water inside them isn’t moving. When water flows — even if the flow rate is slow — it’s less likely to freeze than if it’s standing still. Both offer clues on how to prevent pipes from freezing.

How to Prevent Pipes From Freezing Before Winter Comes

These tips come from Elizabeth Shavers, who manages an online HVAC and plumbing educational site, as well as Joe Haycock, Justin Cornforth, Joseph Wade and TJ Laury, who all manage plumbing and/or HVAC service companies.

Insulate exposed pipes

“You need to insulate a pipe if these two things are true: it’s in an unheated place like a basement, garage, or crawl space, and you can see the pipe,” advises Cornforth. Outdoor unburied pipes, like the ones that rise to feed spigots, also qualify for insulation. Foam pipe sleeves provide the best long-term insulation, but you can use an old towel and duct tape for temporary first-aid.

Drain pipes that aren’t in use in the winter

“One of the best things you can to do prevent pipes from freezing is to shut off the water supply in those pipes and drain them,” says Wade. “Disconnect hoses from the pipes and leave the outside valve open in case there’s water left in the lines.” If you plan to abandon a cabin or home for the winter, shut off the main water supply and drain all the pipes, using an outdoor faucet. If you have an irrigation system, don’t forget to shut off the water and drain it.

Allow heat to circulate

During an intense cold snap, the pipes under your kitchen and bathroom sinks could freeze, especially if they are attached to an exterior wall. Laury recommends keeping the cabinet doors open to allow warm air into the sink cabinet. It’s also a good idea, says Shavers, to keep interior doors open to allow heat to circulate freely through the house.

Keep a space heater handy, says Haycock. “In extreme cold, you can use it in places where the pipes run.”

Seal cold air leaks

This tip comes from Cornforth: “Put your hand near basement windows, crawl space vents, or where pipes come through a wall — if you feel a draft, all nearby pipes are at high risk of freezing. Cardboard or rags will buy you time, but you need to caulk or foam it as soon as possible.”

Maintain consistent water pressure

“Excessively high pressure can weaken pipes and fittings over time,” warns Shavers, and that makes them more vulnerable to bursting. Check the pressure gauge on your water system, and if it’s greater than about 50 psi, adjust the pressure downward using the valve on the pressure regulator.

Check your shut-off valves

Before winter sets in, make sure you know where all your shut-off valves are, and test each one to verify that it isn’t stuck. “In case of a pipe burst, the best thing you can do is turn off the shut-off valve quickly, says Cornforth. “Every second missed is around a gallon of water pouring into your home. It’s important not only to do things to prevent the problem but also to be ready for it — because once a pipe bursts, your only defense is how fast you can stop the water.”

Let faucets drip

This is a tried and true method to prevent pipes from freezing, and it’s something you should do if you expect a particularly cold night. “During extreme cold weather,” says Laury, “two simple things will help prevent frozen pipes: opening the cabinets under the sinks and letting the faucets drip. Keeping the cabinet door open will let warm air in, and letting the faucets drip will keep water moving. Both reduce the risk of freezing.”

Put together an anti-freeze kit

Despite your best preparations to prevent the pipes from freezing, you may need extra resources during extremely cold weather, so Cornforth suggests putting together an emergency kit. It should include a small space heater, a roll of UL-listed heat tape or a self-regulating heating cable, a couple of foam faucet covers, and even a few old towels you can wrap around a pipe in a pinch.

Consider smart technology

“Nowadays,” says Wade, “smart home technology has become a reliable source for homeowners looking to apply another line of defense. Smart sensors and automatic shut-off valves installed by professional plumbers are great tools that can detect drastic temperature changes, as well as detect water in the home where it shouldn’t be. If the sensors detect a problem, it will notify you through the app and shut off the water to prevent water damage.”

How to Prevent Pipes Freezing When You Have No Heat

It depends on how long you expect to be without heat. If it’s just a few hours or a couple of days, let the faucets drip to keep water moving in the pipes, insulate vulnerable pipes and, if necessary, use electric or propane space heaters to supply heat to those that are most vulnerable.

If you’re going to be without heat for an extended period, our experts agreed that the most effective strategy is to shut off the water and drain the pipes.

How To Prevent Water Leaks Before Winter Comes

Our experts were also in agreement on Haycock’s advice: “Address small leaks and corrosion well before winter. The tiniest leaks can become huge problems if they freeze. Make sure all fittings are tight, and water pressure is at an appropriate level.”

FAQs

At what temperature do pipes freeze?

Water freezes at 32 F, but it has to be much colder than that for pipes to freeze. Here again our experts agree that the temperature has to reach 20 F and stay there for several hours for that to happen.

What’s the minimum temperature to keep pipes from freezing?

Cornforth’s advice: “If your house is well insulated, keeping the temperature at a minimum of 55 degrees should prevent pipes from freezing. If you live in an older house with poor insulation, aim for 60.”

About the Experts

• Elizabeth Shavers is the General Manager for HVAC and Plumbing at Oncourse Home Solutions.
• Joe Haycock is Vice President at Fresh Air Concepts, LLC, a company specializing in HVAC and plumbing services.
• Justin Cornforth is the owner of Ace Home Co, a family-owned company founded in 2017.
• Joseph Wade is the Vice President of Operations at Benjamin Franklin Plumbing, which more than 300 locations across North America.
• TJ Laury is a co-owner and President of Ben’s ProServ, founded with his father, Ben, and brother-in-law, Stan.

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The Essential Guide to Home Warranty Programs: Are They Really Worth It?

While owning a home is part of the American dream, repair costs can be a nightmare. Even minor fixes add up, and major system failures can cost thousands. A recent Bankrate report found that 60 percent of U.S. households couldn’t cover a $1,000 unexpected expense without relying on a credit card. To help ease the financial pain of surprise home repairs, some homeowners turn to home warranty programs. But are they worth it? Here’s what you need to know, with insights from real estate broker Beatrice de Jong and Lindsay LaBonte of Applied Mortgage.

What Are Home Warranty Programs?

A home warranty is a service contract that homeowners purchase annually to help cover the repair or replacement costs of major home systems and appliances, such as HVAC systems and major appliances.

How Much Do Home Warranty Programs Cost?

Home warranty premium costs range from $480 to $1080 annually, depending on the company and level of coverage. In addition to the premium, you’ll pay a service fee each time a contractor visits for a repair or diagnosis. Expect to pay between $75 to $150 per visit, depending on the company, your location, and service tier.

Home Warranty Subscription Tiers, Explained

Most home warranty companies offer three coverage tiers.

• The base tier often covers appliances or HVAC, electrical and plumbing systems for $480 to $540 per year.
• Mid-level plans typically cover systems and appliances for $600 to $780 annually.
• Top-tier policies, which cost $840 to $1,080 per year, include systems, appliances and extras, like minor roof repairs.

Many companies also offer add-ons for items like central vacuums, instant hot water dispensers, pool equipment or septic systems, says DeJong.

Home Warranty Programs Pros & Cons

Pros

• Peace of mind: Home warranty programs offer protection against costly repairs, making them ideal for first-time buyers or homes with aging systems.
• Simplified repair process: File a claim, and the warranty company dispatches contractors to diagnose and fix issues.
• Assist in real estate deals: “In many cases, the seller may cover the cost of the home warranty as part of the negotiation,” de Jong says, offering buyers peace of mind.

Cons

• Delayed repair process: “Experiences with home warranty providers can differ significantly,” de Jong says. “Some companies have been criticized for slow response times or disputes over coverage eligibility.”
• Plan exclusions: Fine print can lead to your claim being denied by the company.

Are Home Warranty Programs Worth It?

“In my experience, these products rarely live up to the marketing,” LaBonte says. “Premiums tend to be high, coverage is narrow, and the fine print often excludes the very issues that arise.” Home warranty programs often don’t cover cosmetic damage, rust, corrosion and non-critical parts like shelves or knobs. Claims are also likely denied if failure results from improper installation, misuse or poor maintenance.

FAQ

When should I subscribe to a home warranty program?

You can buy a home warranty policy anytime of the year, but most have a 30-day wait period for new claims. If your appliances and systems are new, a warranty program may not be necessary. However, if they’re older and nearing the end of their lifespan, it could be a smart investment.

What is the best home warranty program?

The best home warranty program will offer what matters most to you in coverage and service. Choice Home Warranty and Select Home Warranty offer budget-friendly policies, while First American Home Warranty provides higher coverage limits ideal for luxury appliances and systems. ARW Home and American Home Shield stand out by allowing you to choose your own contractor while Cinch Home Services and Liberty Home Guard have high customer satisfaction rates.

Should I pay for a home warranty program if my appliances are under warranty?

There’s no need to have home warranty coverage for appliances still under the manufacturer’s warranty.

About the Experts

• Beatrice de Jong is a real estate broker with Beverly Hills Estates in Los Angeles, California. Ms. de Jong previously worked for Open Listings as the Director of Residential Sales and OpenDoor as a Consumer Trends Analyst. She has over ten years experience in the real estate industry.
• Lindsay LaBonte is a Loan Originator at Applied Mortgage in Northampton, Massachusetts. She has over 18 years of industry experience.

Source

• Bankrate Annual Emergency Savings Report (2025)

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