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Square Feet Formula:
The square feet calculation for painting determines the actual surface area that needs to be painted by calculating total wall area and subtracting areas occupied by doors and windows. This ensures accurate paint quantity estimation and cost calculation.
The calculator uses the formula:
Where:
Explanation: The formula calculates total wall surface area and subtracts non-paintable areas like doors and windows to get the actual paintable surface.
Details: Accurate square footage calculation is essential for determining the right amount of paint needed, avoiding waste, estimating costs accurately, and ensuring proper project planning.
Tips: Measure wall length and height accurately in feet. Count all walls to be painted. Measure door and window areas separately. Standard door is about 21 sq ft, standard window about 12-15 sq ft.
Q1: Why subtract door and window areas?
A: Doors and windows don't require painting, so excluding these areas gives you the actual surface that needs paint coverage.
Q2: How do I measure irregular shaped walls?
A: Break irregular shapes into rectangles, calculate each section separately, then sum the areas.
Q3: Should I include trim and molding?
A: Trim and molding are calculated separately as they require different paint types and application methods.
Q4: How much paint do I need per square foot?
A: Typically, 1 gallon covers 350-400 sq ft for one coat. Always check paint can specifications.
Q5: What about multiple coats?
A: Multiply the paintable area by the number of coats needed to determine total paint requirement.