Paint Calculator — How Much Paint Do I Need?

Calculate exactly how many gallons of paint you need for your room. Enter your room dimensions and get an accurate estimate in seconds.

Measure the longest wall of your room
feet
Measure the wall perpendicular to the longest wall
feet
Standard ceiling height is 8 feet
feet
Standard interior doors — we subtract 20 sq ft each
Standard windows — we subtract 15 sq ft each
Most jobs need 2 coats. Use 1 for touch-ups, 3 for dramatic color changes.
Most interior paints cover 350-400 sq ft per gallon. Check your paint can.
sq ft
Gallons Needed
Total Wall Area
Paintable Area (after openings)
Total Area to Cover (with coats)
Disclaimer This calculator provides estimates for planning purposes only. Actual material requirements may vary based on surface conditions, application method, product brand, and other factors. Always consult product labels and your supplier for precise quantities. We are not responsible for material shortages or excess resulting from the use of this tool.

Assumptions

  • Standard interior door opening = 20 sq ft (3'×6'8")
  • Standard window opening = 15 sq ft (3'×5')
  • One gallon of interior paint covers approximately 350 sq ft
  • Result is rounded up to the nearest whole gallon
  • Does not account for ceiling painting — walls only
  • Textured walls may require 10-20% more paint

Frequently Asked Questions

How much paint do I need for a 12x12 room?

A 12×12 room with 8-foot ceilings has about 384 sq ft of wall area. After subtracting a door and two windows, you'll need about 2 gallons for two coats.

How many square feet does a gallon of paint cover?

Most interior paints cover 350-400 square feet per gallon on smooth walls. Textured or porous surfaces may require more paint.

Should I buy extra paint?

It's wise to buy an extra quart or half gallon for touch-ups. This calculator rounds up to the nearest gallon, which usually provides a small buffer.