How paint is estimated
One gallon covers about 350 to 400 square feet of smooth, primed wall. Textured walls, bare drywall and big color changes use more, so lower the coverage figure or add a primer coat.
Example: a 14 × 12 ft room with 8 ft walls, one door and two windows has 366 sq ft of wall. Two coats need 2.09 gallons, so buy 2 gallons and a quart.
Paint for common room sizes
Walls only, 8 ft ceilings, one door, two windows, two coats at 350 sq ft per gallon:
| Room | Wall area | Gallons needed | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10 × 10 ft | 270 sq ft | 1.54 | 1 gal + 3 qt |
| 10 × 12 ft | 302 sq ft | 1.73 | 1 gal + 3 qt |
| 12 × 12 ft | 334 sq ft | 1.91 | 2 gal |
| 12 × 14 ft | 366 sq ft | 2.09 | 2 gal + 1 qt |
| 14 × 16 ft | 430 sq ft | 2.46 | 2 gal + 2 qt |
| 16 × 20 ft | 526 sq ft | 3.01 | 3 gal + 1 qt |
A gallon of ceiling paint covers a 12 × 14 ft ceiling (168 sq ft) twice with room to spare. If a quart and a gallon cost nearly the same, buying a second gallon leaves you paint for touch-ups.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need two coats?
Usually yes. Two coats give even color and better durability. One coat can work when repainting the same color with a quality paint.
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