This tool helps you estimate the amount of paint needed for your exterior walls.
How to Use the Paint Calculator
To calculate the amount of paint required for the exterior of your house, fill in the following details:
- Length of the house: Enter the length of your house in feet.
- Width of the house: Enter the width of your house in feet.
- Height of the house: Enter the height of your house in feet.
- Number of doors: Enter the number of doors on the exterior of your house.
- Number of windows: Enter the number of windows on the exterior of your house.
- Paint coverage: Enter how many square feet one gallon of paint can cover. This information can usually be found on the paint can.
- Number of coats: Enter the number of coats you plan to apply.
After filling in all the details, press the “Calculate” button to find out the amount of paint required.
How It Calculates
The calculator determines the paintable surface area by calculating the total area of the house’s walls and then subtracting the area taken up by doors and windows. It then divides this paintable area by the coverage capacity of the paint and multiplies this by the number of coats to determine the total amount of paint needed in gallons.
Limitations
This calculator provides an estimate based on standard sizes for doors and windows (21 sq ft per door and 12 sq ft per window). Actual requirements may vary due to variations in door and window sizes, surface conditions, the texture of the walls, and the type of paint being used. Always consult with a professional for precise calculations.
Use Cases for This Calculator
Calculate Paint Needed for Entire Exterior
Enter the dimensions of your exterior walls (length and height), excluding doors and windows. Our calculator will provide you with the total square footage of the surface area to be painted, helping you determine the amount of paint required for the entire exterior.
Estimate Paint for Doors and Windows
Input the dimensions of your doors and windows to exclude from the total paintable surface. The calculator will deduct these areas from the overall surface area to provide an accurate estimation of the amount of paint needed for the remaining exterior walls.
Choose Paint Coverage Efficiency
Select your paint type and brand to ensure precise calculations. Different brands and types of paint cover surfaces differently. By choosing the exact paint you plan to use, the calculator will adjust the paint quantity accordingly to avoid overestimation or underestimation.
Determine Number of Coats Required
Specify the number of coats you intend to apply for optimal coverage. The calculator will factor in the additional coats and adjust the paint quantity accordingly, enabling you to purchase the right amount of paint for your desired finish.
Consider Wastage and Spillage
Account for potential paint wastage and spillage during the painting process. The calculator will include a percentage for wastage to ensure you have extra paint on hand for touch-ups and unforeseen circumstances, preventing any interruptions to your project.
Calculate Paint Quantity in Gallons
Get the exact amount of paint required in gallons based on your inputs. Our calculator will convert the total paintable surface area into the precise number of gallons needed, eliminating the guesswork and ensuring you purchase the right quantity for your project.
Adjust for Trim and Accents
If you have trim, accents, or other areas that require a different paint color, input their dimensions separately for accurate calculations. The calculator will account for these additional areas, providing a comprehensive breakdown of the paint quantities needed for each section.
Compare Different Paint Options
Compare multiple paint options by inputting various brands and types to see how they affect the total paint quantity required. Our calculator allows you to make informed decisions based on cost-effectiveness and coverage efficiency, helping you choose the best paint for your exterior.
Save and Print Results
After completing your calculations, save or print the results for future reference. Keep a record of the paint quantities and estimates provided by the calculator to streamline your purchasing process and ensure a smooth and efficient painting project.
Optimize for Custom Projects
If you have a unique exterior project with specific requirements, use our customizable options to tailor the calculations to your needs. From unusual wall shapes to intricate designs, our paint calculator can be adapted to suit any custom project, providing accurate and reliable results.