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Paint Per Square Foot Calculator

Paint Calculation Formula:

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

square feet
square feet per gallon
coats

1. What is the Paint Per Square Foot Calculator?

The Paint Per Square Foot Calculator estimates the amount of paint needed for a painting project based on the area to be painted, the coverage rate of the paint, and the number of coats required.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the paint calculation formula:

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

Where:

  • \( A \) — Area to be painted (square feet)
  • \( C \) — Coverage rate of paint (square feet per gallon)
  • \( N \) — Number of coats required

Explanation: The formula calculates the total paint needed by dividing the area by the coverage rate and multiplying by the number of coats.

3. Importance of Paint Calculation

Details: Accurate paint calculation helps avoid waste, ensures you purchase the right amount of paint, and helps with budget planning for painting projects.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the total area in square feet, the paint coverage rate (typically 250-400 sq ft/gallon), and the number of coats needed. All values must be positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a typical paint coverage rate?
A: Most paints cover 250-400 square feet per gallon, but this varies by paint type, surface texture, and application method.

Q2: How do I calculate the area to be painted?
A: Measure length and height of each wall, then multiply. For ceilings, measure length and width. Subtract areas for windows and doors.

Q3: How many coats are usually needed?
A: Most projects require 2 coats for good coverage. Dark colors over light may need 3 coats, while light colors over light may need only 1.

Q4: Should I buy extra paint?
A: Yes, it's recommended to buy 10-15% extra for touch-ups and to account for surface absorption variations.

Q5: Does surface texture affect coverage?
A: Yes, rough or textured surfaces require more paint than smooth surfaces due to increased surface area.

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