How to Calculate Paint Needed
Wall Area = 2 × (Length + Width) × Height
Subtract: Doors (~21 sq ft each), Windows (~15 sq ft each)
Gallons = Paintable Area × Coats ÷ Coverage per Gallon
Paint Coverage Tips
- One gallon covers about 350-400 sq ft on smooth walls
- Textured or rough surfaces need more paint (250-300 sq ft/gal)
- Dark colors over light typically need 2 coats; light over dark needs 2-3
- Always buy a little extra for touch-ups (10-15%)
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a gallon of paint cover? A standard gallon covers about 350-400 square feet per coat on smooth, primed walls.
How many coats do I need? Most jobs need 2 coats. Use 1 coat for same-color touch-ups, 3 for drastic color changes.