Paint Calculation Formula:
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The paint calculation estimates the amount of paint needed to cover the walls and ceiling of a room. It accounts for all surfaces that will be painted to help you purchase the right amount of paint for your project.
The calculator uses the paint calculation formula:
Where:
Explanation: The equation calculates the total paintable area (walls and ceiling) then divides by the coverage rate of the paint.
Details: Proper paint calculation helps avoid purchasing too much or too little paint, saving money and ensuring you have enough paint to complete the job without multiple trips to the store.
Tips: Measure your room dimensions accurately in feet. Standard paint coverage is about 350 sq ft per gallon, but check your specific paint's coverage rate. Always round up to the nearest whole gallon.
Q1: Should I include windows and doors in my calculation?
A: For precise calculation, subtract window and door areas, but for simplicity, our calculator gives a slightly generous estimate that accounts for these.
Q2: How many coats should I plan for?
A: Multiply the result by the number of coats you plan to apply. Most projects require 2 coats.
Q3: Does this work for ceilings?
A: Yes, the formula includes the ceiling (l × w component). If not painting ceiling, subtract this area.
Q4: What if my walls are different heights?
A: Use the average height or calculate each wall separately for more accuracy.
Q5: How much extra paint should I buy?
A: It's recommended to buy 10-20% extra for touch-ups and waste.