The new year often inspires homeowners to refresh their spaces, and when it comes to transforming a home’s curb appeal, color is one of the most impactful choices you can make. This January, James Hardie announced Iron Gray as its 2026 Color of the Year — a bold, deep charcoal that brings both elegance and confidence to any exterior.

Like last year’s Color of the Year, Evening Blue, Iron Gray builds on the shift toward richer, more expressive tones in the Statement Collection®. At Blue Nail, we’ve seen growing interest in these deeper hues, and Iron Gray is quickly becoming a top request.
Why Iron Gray Stands Out
Iron Gray resonates with homeowners largely because of its versatility. It offers dramatic contrast without feeling stark and complements the wide range of architectural styles found throughout neighboring communities.
Pairing Iron Gray with Style

Iron Gray’s ability to feel bold without overwhelming a home is what makes it so versatile and fun to pair. Popular combinations we see homeowners gravitating toward include:
- White trim for a crisp, classic contrast
- Black or dark metal accents for a modern, streamlined look
- Natural wood features to warm up the richness with organic texture
- Stone elements to add dimension and balance
Whether matched with architectural roofing, stonework, or cedar-look details, Iron Gray delivers a confident, polished finish.
Why Homeowners Continue to Choose James Hardie
James Hardie siding remains a leader for its durability, low maintenance, and long-lasting color technology. Its ColorPlus® finish is engineered to resist fading, peeling, and cracking. When homeowners invest in a bold color like Iron Gray, they can trust it will stay beautiful for years to come.

A Fresh Start for 2026
January is the ideal time to start envisioning exterior updates for the upcoming spring and summer seasons. Many homeowners use winter to gather inspiration, compare colors, and plan ahead before schedules fill up.
As a James Hardie Elite Preferred Contractor, we help homeowners explore samples, review real-life installs, and find combinations that complement both their home’s architecture and personal style. If you’re considering a fresh look for 2026, give our office a call. We’d love to help you bring your vision to life.