Paint Calculator
Calculate exactly how much paint you need for any project. Get accurate estimates for walls, ceilings, and trim with professional coverage calculations.
Room Configuration
Room Dimensions
Openings to Subtract
Paint Options
Calculate Paint Like a Pro
Take the guesswork out of your painting project with our comprehensive paint calculator. Whether you're refreshing a single room or painting your entire home, our tool accounts for windows, doors, texture, and multiple coats to ensure you buy exactly the right amount of paint—avoiding costly trips back to the store or wasted excess paint.
Calculator Features
- ✓ Room dimension calculator
- ✓ Window & door deductions
- ✓ Multiple coat calculations
- ✓ Texture adjustments
- ✓ Ceiling paint estimates
- ✓ Trim & accent walls
Paint Types Covered
- • Interior wall paint
- • Exterior house paint
- • Ceiling paint
- • Trim & door paint
- • Primer calculations
- • Specialty finishes
Paint Coverage by Finish Type
| Paint Finish | Coverage/Gallon | Best For | Durability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flat/Matte | 400 sq ft | Ceilings, low-traffic areas | Low - hard to clean |
| Eggshell | 375 sq ft | Living rooms, bedrooms | Medium - some washability |
| Satin | 350 sq ft | Hallways, kids' rooms | Good - washable |
| Semi-Gloss | 350 sq ft | Kitchens, bathrooms, trim | High - very washable |
| High Gloss | 300 sq ft | Cabinets, doors, accent | Highest - most durable |
Room-by-Room Paint Requirements
10x12 Bedroom (8' ceilings)
- • Wall area: ~350 sq ft
- • Minus openings: ~315 sq ft
- • Paint needed: 2 gallons (2 coats)
- • Ceiling: 1 gallon
- • Trim: 1 quart
15x20 Living Room (9' ceilings)
- • Wall area: ~630 sq ft
- • Minus openings: ~550 sq ft
- • Paint needed: 3-4 gallons (2 coats)
- • Ceiling: 2 gallons
- • Trim: 1-2 quarts
8x10 Bathroom (8' ceilings)
- • Wall area: ~290 sq ft
- • Minus openings/fixtures: ~230 sq ft
- • Paint needed: 1-2 gallons (2 coats)
- • Use moisture-resistant paint
- • Semi-gloss recommended
12x15 Kitchen (9' ceilings)
- • Wall area: ~490 sq ft
- • Minus cabinets/appliances: ~300 sq ft
- • Paint needed: 2 gallons (2 coats)
- • Use scrubbable finish
- • Consider backsplash area
Surface Preparation & Coverage Factors
New Drywall
Requires primer plus 2-3 coats of paint. First coat absorbs heavily, reducing coverage by 25-30%. Always use primer-sealer on new drywall to ensure even coverage and prevent flashing.
Previously Painted Walls
Usually needs 2 coats for color change, 1 coat for refresh. Dark colors over light require primer or 3 coats. Light over dark needs high-quality primer to prevent bleed-through.
Textured Surfaces
Orange peel adds 10-15%, knockdown 15-20%, skip trowel 20-30%, popcorn 25-35% to paint requirements. Use a thick-nap roller (3/4" to 1-1/4") for better coverage on texture.
Exterior Surfaces
Wood siding needs 20-30% more paint than smooth surfaces. Stucco requires 50-100% more. Brick needs special masonry paint and uses 35-50% more than smooth walls.
Professional Painting Tips
Maximize Your Paint Investment
- Buy Quality Paint: Premium paint covers better, lasts longer, and often requires fewer coats
- Use Primer: Saves paint and improves adhesion, especially on new surfaces or color changes
- Box Your Paint: Mix all gallons together to ensure color consistency throughout the project
- Right Tools: Quality brushes and rollers use less paint and provide better coverage
- Temperature Matters: Paint in 50-85°F for best coverage and drying
- Two Thin Coats: Better than one thick coat for durability and appearance
- Keep Records: Note paint brand, color, finish, and purchase date for future touch-ups
Cost Estimation Guide
| Paint Quality | Price/Gallon | Coverage | Durability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Budget | $15-25 | 250-300 sq ft | 3-5 years |
| Mid-Range | $30-45 | 350-400 sq ft | 5-8 years |
| Premium | $50-70 | 400-450 sq ft | 8-12 years |
| Designer | $80-120 | 400-500 sq ft | 12-15 years |
Frequently Asked Questions
Instant Results
Real-time calculations
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