Home
Back
Paint Calculation Formula:
The House Exterior Paint Calculator estimates the amount of paint needed to cover the exterior surfaces of a house based on total area, paint coverage rate, and number of coats required.
The calculator uses the paint calculation formula:
Where:
Explanation: The formula calculates the base amount of paint needed for one coat (Area ÷ Coverage Rate) and multiplies it by the number of coats required.
Details: Accurate paint calculation helps avoid purchasing too much or too little paint, saves money, reduces waste, and ensures consistent color matching across the entire project.
Tips: Measure total exterior surface area accurately, check the paint manufacturer's coverage rate specifications, and consider the number of coats needed based on surface condition and color change.
Q1: How do I measure exterior surface area accurately?
A: Calculate wall areas (height × width), subtract window/door areas, and add trim and detail areas. Consider using a laser measure for accuracy.
Q2: What is a typical paint coverage rate?
A: Most quality exterior paints cover 250-400 square feet per gallon, but this varies by paint type, surface texture, and application method.
Q3: How many coats are usually needed?
A: Most exterior projects require 2 coats for proper coverage and durability, especially when changing colors or painting over dark surfaces.
Q4: Should I buy extra paint for touch-ups?
A: Yes, it's recommended to purchase 10-15% extra paint for touch-ups and future maintenance, and to ensure color consistency.
Q5: Does surface texture affect paint coverage?
A: Yes, rough or textured surfaces (like stucco or brick) require more paint than smooth surfaces - reduce coverage rate by 20-30% for such surfaces.