Paint Calculator
Planning a painting project? Calculate exactly how much paint you need to avoid multiple trips to the store or leftover gallons. Enter your room dimensions, and this calculator accounts for doors, windows, and multiple coats to give you an accurate estimate.
How We Calculate This
Wall area = perimeter × height. Subtract 20 sq ft per door and 15 sq ft per window. Multiply by number of coats. Divide by coverage rate and round up to nearest gallon.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a gallon of paint cover?
Standard paint covers about 350-400 sq ft per gallon on smooth surfaces. Textured walls, bare drywall, or porous surfaces require more paint and may only get 250-300 sq ft per gallon.
Do I need primer?
Use primer when painting over dark colors, stains, new drywall, or drastically changing colors. Many modern paints include primer, reducing the need for a separate coat.
How many coats of paint do I need?
Two coats are recommended for best coverage and durability. One coat may suffice when using paint-and-primer and not making a dramatic color change.
Should I buy extra paint?
Yes, buy 10-15% extra for touch-ups and to account for absorption on textured surfaces. Keep leftover paint for future touch-ups.
Related Calculators
You might also find these calculators helpful: Square Footage Calculator, and Home Affordability Calculator.