Paint Calculator
Coverage Guide
Paint Types
Related Calculators
Painting Guide
Calculating Paint Needs
Most paint covers about 350-400 square feet per gallon on smooth surfaces. Calculate your wall area, subtract doors and windows, then divide by coverage rate.
Formula
When to Use Primer
Primer Recommended
- New drywall or plaster
- Covering dark with light color
- Stained or smoke-damaged walls
- Previously glossy surfaces
- Painting over wallpaper
Paint+Primer OK
- Previously painted surfaces
- Similar color changes
- Good condition walls
- Non-porous surfaces
Number of Coats
| Situation | Coats |
|---|---|
| Same or similar color | 1-2 |
| Light over dark | 2-3 |
| Dark over light | 2 |
| New drywall (primed) | 2 |
| Bold/bright colors (red, yellow) | 2-3 |
Paint Finishes
| Finish | Sheen | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Flat/Matte | 0-5% | Ceilings, low-traffic rooms |
| Eggshell | 10-25% | Living rooms, bedrooms |
| Satin | 25-35% | Kitchens, bathrooms, kids' rooms |
| Semi-Gloss | 35-70% | Trim, doors, cabinets |
| High-Gloss | 70%+ | Furniture, accents |
Painting Tips
- Buy 10% extra for touch-ups and to keep for future repairs
- Store paint information (color, brand) for future reference
- Higher quality paint often covers better, needing fewer coats
- Stir paint thoroughly before and during use
- Use painter's tape for clean edges
- Paint in good ventilation and proper temperature (50-85°F)
Frequently Asked Questions
How much paint do I need for a room?
Calculate wall area (perimeter x height), subtract 20 sq ft per door and 15 sq ft per window, multiply by number of coats, then divide by 350-400 sq ft (coverage per gallon). Add 10% for waste and touch-ups.
How many coats of paint do I need?
Most projects need 2 coats for even coverage. Use 1 coat for similar colors, 2-3 coats when covering dark with light colors, and always 2 coats over primer on new drywall. Quality paint often covers better in fewer coats.
Do I need primer?
Use primer for: new drywall, stained surfaces, dramatic color changes (especially dark to light), previously glossy surfaces, and covering wallpaper. Paint-and-primer combos work for minor color changes on already-painted surfaces.
What paint finish should I use?
Flat/matte for ceilings and low-traffic areas. Eggshell for living rooms and bedrooms. Satin for kitchens, bathrooms, and hallways (washable). Semi-gloss for trim, doors, and cabinets. Higher sheen = more durable but shows imperfections.