Home Back

Paint Calculator

Paint Formula:

\[ \text{Paint (gallons)} = \frac{A}{C} \times N \]

square feet
square feet per gallon
coats

1. What is the Paint Calculator?

The Paint Calculator helps determine the exact amount of paint needed for a room based on the area to be painted, the paint's coverage rate, and the number of coats required. This prevents overbuying or underbuying paint for your project.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the paint formula:

\[ \text{Paint (gallons)} = \frac{A}{C} \times N \]

Where:

  • \( A \) — Total area to be painted (square feet)
  • \( C \) — Coverage rate of the paint (square feet per gallon)
  • \( N \) — Number of coats needed (unitless)

Explanation: The formula calculates the base amount of paint needed for one coat (Area ÷ Coverage), then multiplies by the number of coats to get the total requirement.

3. Importance of Accurate Paint Calculation

Details: Proper paint calculation saves money by avoiding excess paint purchases, ensures consistent color matching, and prevents project delays due to insufficient materials.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Measure the room's total paintable area accurately. Standard paint coverage is 350-400 sq ft per gallon. Most projects require 2 coats for optimal coverage and durability.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How do I calculate the paintable area of a room?
A: Measure wall length and height: (Length1 + Length2 + Length3 + Length4) × Height. Subtract windows and doors (approx. 20 sq ft each).

Q2: What is the standard coverage rate for paint?
A: Most quality paints cover 350-400 sq ft per gallon. Check the paint can for specific coverage information.

Q3: Why do most projects require 2 coats?
A: Two coats ensure even coverage, better color saturation, and increased durability. One coat often shows underlying colors or imperfections.

Q4: Should I buy extra paint for touch-ups?
A: Yes, it's recommended to buy 10-15% extra paint for touch-ups and future repairs. Store it properly for later use.

Q5: Does paint type affect coverage?
A: Yes, premium paints often have better coverage and may require fewer coats. Matte finishes typically cover better than glossy ones.

Paint Calculator© - All Rights Reserved 2025