Wall Paint Calculator
Calculate paint needed for a single wall by specifying width, height, coats, and coverage rate.
Formula & Explanation
This calculator is focused on a single wall or accent wall. Step 1: Calculate wall area - Wall area = Width × Height - Example: 14 ft × 8 ft = 112 square feet Step 2: Calculate gallons needed - Gallons = (Wall area × Number of coats) ÷ Coverage per gallon - Example: (112 sqft × 1 coat) ÷ 400 sqft/gal = 0.28 gallons Step 3: Round up to purchase - 0.28 gallons → purchase 1 gallon can
Assumptions
- •Wall is rectangular; no deductions for small switches or outlets
- •Interior smooth drywall surface; textured surfaces may need 25-50% more paint
- •Paint coverage: interior latex typically 350-400 sqft/gallon
- •One coat provides minimal coverage; two coats recommended for uniformity
- •Does not include primer
- •Assumes standard ceiling height (8 ft or specified)
- •Does not account for trim, baseboards, or crown molding
Example Calculation
A 14 ft wide × 8 ft tall wall (112 sqft) with one coat at 400 sqft/gallon coverage requires 0.28 gallons, round up to 1 gallon can.
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