How to Estimate How Much Paint You’ll Need for a Project

24 Sep How to Estimate How Much Paint You’ll Need for a Project

Estimating the amount of paint required for a project is crucial to avoid running short or overspending. Here’s a straightforward guide to help you calculate how much paint you’ll need. After decades in the industry, we’ve gotten pretty good at estimating the quantity of paint we need for a project.

1. Measure Your Space

Start by measuring the walls you plan to paint to determine their height and width. Measure the length and width of each room (in feet). Then, multiply the length by the width to calculate that room’s square footage. For example: If a bedroom is 12 feet by 20 feet, it is 240 square feet (12 x 20 = 240).

Remember to account for surfaces you won’t paint, such as doors and windows, by subtracting their area from your total. For example, a standard door is about 20 square feet (length by width), and a standard window is about 15 square feet. Subtract these areas from your total square footage.

2. Determine Paint Coverage

Most paint cans list their coverage area, typically ranging from 350 to 400 square feet per gallon for a single coat. However, this can vary based on the paint’s quality, the surface texture, and the color change.

To estimate the paint needed, divide your total square footage by the coverage rate. For example, if your room totals 800 square feet and your paint covers 400 square feet per gallon, you’ll need 2 gallons for one coat.

3. Consider Multiple Coats

In most cases, you will need to apply more than one coat. To factor in that extra coat, multiply your total paint amount by the number of coats.

4. Buy a Little Extra

If you’re not a professional painter or have little experience painting, purchasing extra paint for touch-ups is smart. A half-gallon extra should suffice for most projects.

Mike Katounas