Choosing the right paint color can feel tricky. I’ve been there, standing in front of tiny swatches, hoping I’ll love how it looks on the wall.
That’s what led me to Sherwin-Williams’ Rain Cloud (SW 9639). It caught my eye with its calm, gray-blue tone, so I gave it a try in my home office. In this post, I’ll cover everything you need to know about Rain Cloud:
- What the color looks like in real life
- Its key specs and undertones
- How it compares to other Sherwin-Williams shades
If you’re thinking about painting a room or your home’s exterior and want a cool, moody option that still feels soft, this review will help you decide. Let’s get started!
What Is Rain Cloud by Sherwin-Williams?
When I first saw Sherwin-Williams’ Rain Cloud, I thought it looked like a mix of gray and blue with a soft, muted feel. It’s not too dark or too bright, just a calm, grounded color that feels easy to live with.
I’d say it leans more neutral, but the blue tone shows up more in natural light.
If you’re looking for something that’s peaceful but not boring, this could work for you. I used it in my home office, and it made the space feel focused and quiet.
Rain Cloud works well in bedrooms, bathrooms, and even on kitchen cabinets. You can also try it outside; it looks sharp on siding and trim. It’s the kind of color that gives a clean look without standing out too much.
If you want something simple that fits almost anywhere, this shade is worth checking out.
Key Color Specs and Codes
If you’re someone who likes to check the details before picking a paint, this section is for you. I always look at the basics like LRV and RGB, which helps me understand how the color might look in my space.
- Color Name: Rain Cloud
- Color Code: SW 9639
- Hex Code – #536168: Use this if you’re matching it online or in design software.
- RGB – 83, 97, 104: This shows the balance of red, green, and blue in the color.
- LRV – 13: This means it reflects low light. If your space doesn’t get much natural light, it may look darker.
Key Features and Attributes of Rain Cloud
This is what I noticed while using Rain Cloud in my home. Its look, feel, and how it worked with different spaces really stood out. I’m sharing these points to help you see if it’s the right choice for your room, style, and lighting.
1. Subtle Undertones
Rain Cloud is mostly a soft gray-blue, but it changes a bit with the light. In the morning, I saw more of the blue. In the evening, it shifted slightly, sometimes it looked a little green or even had a violet tone.
These shifts are subtle but noticeable in changing light. Test a large sample to see how it looks throughout the day.
2. Neutral or Statement, It Does Both
Rain Cloud can either blend in or stand out depending on where it’s used. On a full wall, it acts like a calm neutral that doesn’t overwhelm the space. On cabinets or an accent wall, it makes a strong impression without being too bold.
That kind of flexibility isn’t easy to find in a color.
3. Easy to Pair
Matching Rain Cloud with other finishes was simple. It works well with white and cream trims, light wood furniture, and even darker hardware like matte black or brushed nickel.
I had white trim and oak floors; this color pulled it together easily and fits most styles.
4. Works in Different Spaces
Rain Cloud fits well in small or large rooms. In tighter spaces, it feels calm and cozy. In bigger areas, it stays modern without feeling cold.
It’s a solid option if you want one color that works in different rooms and lighting conditions.
Rain Cloud vs. Other Sherwin-Williams Colors
If you’re trying to pick between Rain Cloud and other Sherwin-Williams colors, this quick chart should help. I’ve tested these myself, and while they’re all nice, they each look a bit different in a room.
| Color | Look & Feel | How It Compares to Rain Cloud |
|---|---|---|
| Misty (SW 6232) | Very light and airy gray-blue. | Misty feels cooler and more washed out. Rain Cloud has more depth, so it works better in rooms that need warmth or mood. |
| Storm Cloud (SW 6249) | Deep, rich blue-gray that feels dramatic. | Storm Cloud is darker and bolder. If you want something softer or easier to pair, Rain Cloud is more balanced. |
| Passive (SW 7064) | Light gray with a cooler, almost icy undertone. | Passive leans more toward a plain gray. Rain Cloud has more character with its slight blue tone, which gives it warmth. |
I like Rain Cloud when I need a middle ground, something that isn’t too light or too dark.
It has just enough color to feel styled but still works like a neutral. If you want one color that feels grounded without being flat, this one’s worth testing.
Durability and Longevity of Rain Cloud on Exteriors
I’ve seen Rain Cloud used on a few home exteriors, and it holds up well when applied the right way.
The color doesn’t fade quickly, even with sun exposure, which is a big plus. In areas with a lot of rain or changing seasons, it still looks solid, as long as you prep the surface properly and use good paint products.
For siding, a flat or matte finish works best to hide surface flaws, while a satin or semi-gloss finish is better for trim since it’s easier to clean and stands up to wear.
If you want the color to stay fresh longer, check for peeling or dirt every year and wash the surface when needed.
Some homeowners and painters I talked to said the color lasted five or more years without needing touch-ups, which is a good sign.
Application Tips for a Flawless Rain Cloud Finish
If you’re planning to paint with Rain Cloud, a few simple steps can help you get a clean, smooth finish. I’ve tried these myself and they made a big difference.
- Test the color in both natural and artificial light. Rain Cloud shifts slightly throughout the day, so paint a sample on your wall and check it from morning to night.
- Use high-quality brushes or rollers. I noticed that thin coats can leave marks, especially on larger walls. A dense roller or angled brush gave me the best result.
- Apply at least two coats. The first coat can look patchy, but the second one usually evens everything out and brings out the true tone.
- Use a primer if covering a darker color. A basic white or light gray primer helps the paint go on evenly and keeps the tone from getting muddied.
Conclusion
After using Rain Cloud, I can say it’s one of the most flexible colors I’ve tried. It works well in modern, farmhouse, and even coastal-style homes.
The soft gray-blue tone makes it feel calm without being dull, and it pairs easily with other colors and finishes.
You can use it inside or out, in large spaces or small ones; it really adjusts to what you need. I think it’s a safe pick if you want something a little different but not too bold.
If you’ve tried Rain Cloud in your space, I’d love to hear how it turned out.
Did it lean more blue or gray for you? Did it surprise you in any way? Feel free to share your experience or drop a question in the comments. I’m happy to help if you’re still deciding.