Estimate how many gallons of paint you need based on wall area, number of coats, and coverage rate.
How It Works
How Paint Calculator Works
Wall area is multiplied by the number of coats you plan to apply, then divided by the paint's coverage rate (how many square feet one gallon covers) — the result is rounded up to the nearest quarter gallon, since paint is typically sold in fixed container sizes.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does coverage rate vary between paints?
Coverage depends on the paint's formulation, the surface texture, and how porous the wall is — the 350 sq ft per gallon default here is a common average, but checking the actual coverage rate printed on your paint can will give a more accurate estimate.
Do I really need two coats?
Most paint jobs, especially over a different existing color or bare drywall, look noticeably better and more even with two coats — a single coat can leave visible patchiness or roller marks.
