Paint Calculator

The secret to a "streak-free" paint job is Surface Preparation and Priming. Paint coverage rates are based on a "sealed" surface. If you are painting new drywall or a porous material like bare wood or masonry, the first coat will "soak in," providing much less coverage (often only 200 sq ft per gallon). Professionals always use a high-quality Primer first to seal the surface and provide a uniform "tooth" for the topcoat. Our calculator helps you estimate the topcoat, but remember that you likely need an equal amount of primer for new surfaces. Priming not only saves you money on expensive colored paint but also ensures the color looks identical across the entire wall.

Another vital consideration is the Paint Finish (Sheen). Flat or Matte paints hide imperfections well but are harder to clean. Semi-gloss and Gloss paints are highly durable and moisture-resistant (perfect for kitchens and bathrooms) but will highlight every bump and ding in your drywall. When using our calculator, factor in that higher sheens often require a more meticulous "cutting-in" process. Finally, focus on The "Box" Method. If your project requires more than two gallons of the same color, professionals "box" the paint by mixing all gallons into a single 5-gallon bucket. This eliminates the tiny color variations between individual cans, ensuring a perfectly consistent look across large walls. Our tool gives you the total gallon count so you can decide if "boxing" is necessary for your project.