Paint Calculator

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

For a standard 12x12 room with 8 ft ceilings, one door, and one window, you need approximately 1.5 gallons of paint for two coats. Wall area = 2 x (12+12) x 8 = 384 sq ft, minus door (21 sq ft) and window (15 sq ft) = 348 sq ft. Ceiling = 144 sq ft. Total = 492 sq ft. At 350 sq ft per gallon: 492 / 350 = 1.4 gallons, round up to 2 gallons.

How much does a gallon of paint cover?

A standard gallon of paint covers approximately 350-400 square feet for one coat on a smooth surface. Rough or textured surfaces reduce coverage to 200-250 sq ft per gallon. Higher quality paints typically provide better coverage. Always check the manufacturer specifications on the can.

Should I paint the ceiling the same color as the walls?

Not necessarily. White ceilings are traditional and make a room feel taller and brighter. Painting the ceiling the same color as the walls creates a cohesive, modern look and can make a room feel larger. For small rooms, a lighter ceiling color helps the space feel more open.

What is the difference between latex and oil-based paint?

Latex paint is water-based, dries quickly, has low VOCs, and cleans up with soap and water. Oil-based paint is solvent-based, dries slower, has a harder finish, and requires mineral spirits for cleanup. Latex is more common for walls and ceilings; oil-based is preferred for trim, cabinets, and high-traffic areas.

How many coats of paint do I need?

Most paint projects require two coats for full coverage and durability. One coat may suffice if you are painting a lighter color over a similar light color, or using a high-hide paint. Dark color changes and covering bold colors typically require three coats.

Do I need primer before painting?

Primer is recommended when painting bare drywall, patched areas, over dark colors, or when switching from oil-based to latex paint. Primer helps the paint adhere better, provides a uniform surface, and can reduce the number of top coats needed. Self-priming paints are available but may not work in all situations.

How do I calculate paint for a room with vaulted ceilings?

For vaulted ceilings, measure the height at the peak and the width of the wall. For a standard gable end, area = (base x height) / 2. For sloping ceiling surfaces, measure length x sloped width. Add these areas to the standard wall and ceiling calculations. A room with vaulted ceilings typically requires 20-40% more paint.

What sheen should I use for walls?

For interior walls, eggshell and satin are the most popular sheens. Eggshell has a subtle luster and is easy to clean, making it ideal for living rooms and bedrooms. Satin is more durable and moisture-resistant, suitable for kitchens, bathrooms, and hallways. Flat paint hides imperfections but is harder to clean.

How do I estimate paint for exterior walls?

For exterior painting, measure the perimeter of the house multiplied by the wall height, subtract windows and doors (typically 15 sq ft per window, 21 sq ft per door). Add gable end areas. Exterior surfaces are often rougher, reducing coverage to 200-300 sq ft per gallon. Exterior paint is typically thicker and may require a primer coat.

What is the standard door and window deduction for paint?

When calculating paint needs, the standard deduction is 21 square feet for a typical interior door (3 ft x 7 ft) and 15 square feet for a standard window (3 ft x 5 ft). For larger or custom sizes, measure the actual dimensions and deduct accordingly.

How much does it cost to paint a room in 2026?

In 2026, painting a standard 12x12 room costs $300-800 for professional labor plus $30-60 per gallon for paint. DIY costs are $50-150 for paint and supplies. Professional painters charge $2-5 per sq ft for walls and $1-3 per sq ft for ceilings, depending on prep work and location.

What is the best paint for bathrooms?

For bathrooms, use a satin or semi-gloss paint with mildew-resistant properties. These sheens handle humidity better and can be wiped down. Look for paints labeled specifically for bathrooms or kitchens. Eggshell or matte paints in bathrooms may develop moisture damage over time.

How do I remove paint fumes quickly?

To reduce paint fumes, use low-VOC or zero-VOC paints, ensure adequate ventilation by opening windows and using fans, place bowls of vinegar or baking soda in the room to absorb odors, and use air purifiers with activated carbon filters. Latex paints have significantly fewer fumes than oil-based paints.

What is the best paint for trim and baseboards?

For trim, baseboards, and doors, semi-gloss or high-gloss paint is recommended. These sheens are durable, easy to clean, and show off architectural details. Oil-based enamel provides the hardest finish, but water-based acrylic enamels are now excellent alternatives with easier cleanup.

How long should I wait between coats of paint?

For latex paint, wait 2-4 hours between coats under normal conditions. For oil-based paint, wait 24 hours. Always check the manufacturer instructions. Cooler temperatures and higher humidity require longer drying times. Lightly sanding between coats can improve adhesion for a smoother finish.

Can I paint over dark colors without primer?

Painting over dark colors without primer requires more coats and may not achieve full coverage. A gray or white primer blocks the dark color and provides a neutral base. Using a tinted primer (gray for dark-to-light transitions) reduces the number of top coats needed by 1-2 coats.

What type of paint is best for kitchen cabinets?

For kitchen cabinets, use a durable, washable paint. High-quality acrylic latex enamel or oil-based enamel provides a hard, smooth finish. Semi-gloss or satin sheen is recommended. Clean and degrease cabinets thoroughly before painting, and use a high-adhesion primer designed for cabinets.

How do I calculate paint for a room with many windows?

Measure each window and subtract the total window area from the wall area. For a room with multiple windows, this significantly reduces the wall area needing paint. However, you will need paint for the window frames and trim, typically requiring 1/4 to 1/2 gallon of trim paint per room.

What is the best paint for ceilings?

Use flat or matte paint specifically formulated for ceilings. Ceiling paint is thicker and designed to minimize splatter. White is the most common color, but tinted ceilings are becoming popular. One gallon typically covers 300-400 sq ft on smooth ceilings, less on textured ceilings.

How do I prepare walls before painting?

Clean walls with TSP or mild detergent to remove dirt and grease. Patch holes and cracks with spackle, sand smooth when dry. Sand glossy surfaces to improve adhesion. Apply painter's tape to trim and edges. Prime bare drywall, patched areas, or stain-prone surfaces. Cover floors and furniture with drop cloths.

What is the difference between matte and flat paint?

Flat and matte paints are similar, but matte typically has a slightly higher sheen and better washability than flat. Both hide surface imperfections well. Flat paint is very low-luster and is often used on ceilings. Matte is preferred for low-traffic areas like bedrooms and formal living rooms.

How much paint do I need for a 10x10 room?

A 10x10 room with 8 ft ceilings, one door, and one window needs about 1 gallon for two coats on the walls (excluding ceiling). Wall area: 2 x (10+10) x 8 = 320 sq ft, minus 36 sq ft for door and window = 284 sq ft. At 350 sq ft per gallon: 284 / 350 = 0.8 gallons, so 1 gallon covers two coats. Add another gallon for the ceiling if painting.

Can I use interior paint for exterior projects?

No. Interior paint is not formulated to withstand UV radiation, moisture, temperature fluctuations, or mildew growth that exterior surfaces face. Exterior paints contain UV-resistant pigments, flexible binders, and mildewcides. Always use paint specifically labeled for exterior use.

What is the most durable paint sheen?

High-gloss paint is the most durable and easiest to clean, but it shows every surface imperfection. Semi-gloss offers a good balance of durability and appearance. For high-traffic areas, satin or semi-gloss is recommended. For walls that need frequent cleaning (kitchens, children's rooms), satin or eggshell is a practical choice.

How do I store leftover paint?

Seal the can tightly, wipe excess paint from the rim, place plastic wrap over the opening before sealing, store in a cool, dry place (not where it can freeze). Label the can with the room and date. Latex paint lasts 5-10 years if properly stored. Oil-based paint lasts longer. Thinning may be needed for reuse.

What is the best way to paint a room quickly?

Use a paint sprayer for the fastest application, covering walls in minutes. For roller painting, use a wide 18-inch roller and extension pole. Cut in edges (corners, ceiling, trim) first with a brush, then roll the walls. Work from top to bottom. Use high-quality paint for better coverage and fewer coats.

How do I fix paint bubbles and peeling?

Paint bubbles and peeling are caused by moisture, poor adhesion, or painting over dirty surfaces. Scrape off loose paint, sand the area, clean thoroughly, apply primer, and repaint. Use mildew-resistant paint in bathrooms. Ensure proper surface preparation and compatible paint types.

What is the best paint for a home office?

For a home office, choose colors that promote productivity. Blues and greens are calming and focus-enhancing. Use eggshell or satin sheen for durability. Low-VOC paints are recommended for indoor air quality. Accent walls in a bolder color can add visual interest without overwhelming the space.

How much does paint weigh per gallon?

Latex paint weighs approximately 10-12 pounds per gallon. Oil-based paint weighs about 6.5-8.5 pounds per gallon. The weight varies by formulation, pigments, and additives. A 5-gallon bucket of latex paint weighs 50-60 pounds. Consider weight when transporting large quantities.

Can I paint over wallpaper?

Painting over wallpaper is not recommended because the moisture in paint can loosen the adhesive, causing bubbles and peeling. If you must paint over wallpaper, ensure it is well-adhered, clean, and sealed with an oil-based primer. Removing wallpaper and preparing the wall properly produces better, longer-lasting results.

What is the best paint for a nursery or child's room?

Use zero-VOC or low-VOC paint for nurseries and children's rooms to ensure good indoor air quality. Eggshell or satin sheen is cleanable and durable. Choose washable finishes for easy cleanup of fingerprints and marks. Bright, cheerful colors can stimulate development, while soft pastels create a calming environment.