What this estimate includes
This estimate shows paintable area, gallons, quarts, and optional primer based on your room dimensions and coverage rate.
Before you order
Surface texture, color change, primer, paint brand, and application method can change coverage. Use this as a planning estimate and confirm coverage on the paint label.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many gallons of paint do I need for a 12x12 room?
A 12x12 room has about 288 sq ft of wall area (assuming 8 ft ceilings), minus deductions for doors and windows. With 2 coats at 350 sq ft per gallon, you need roughly 1.5 to 2 gallons for walls. The ceiling is 144 sq ft -- about half a gallon per coat.
How much area does one gallon of paint cover?
Most standard interior paints cover 250 to 400 sq ft per gallon on a smooth surface. Textured walls, dark colors, and rough surfaces consume more paint. 350 sq ft per gallon is a solid mid-range estimate for most interior walls.
Should I subtract doors and windows?
Yes -- but it often does not change the gallon count much. Each door opening is roughly 21 sq ft and each window about 15 sq ft. Many painters skip the deduction and use the difference as their touch-up buffer.
Do ceilings need a separate paint estimate?
Yes. Ceiling paint and wall paint are different products with different sheens and formulations. A 12x12 ceiling is 144 sq ft. One gallon covers it in one coat -- plan two coats for a fresh ceiling or color change.
Do I need primer?
Primer is recommended when painting over bare drywall, making a drastic color change, painting over stains, or applying paint to an unpainted surface. For a similar color refresh on previously painted walls, a self-priming paint may be enough.
How many coats of paint should I calculate?
Two coats is standard for most residential jobs. One coat may be enough for a similar color refresh. Three coats may be needed for a dark-to-light change or thin paint on a textured surface.
Should I buy extra paint?
Always round up to the nearest quart or gallon. Keeping a small amount from the same batch is good practice for touch-ups. Touch-up paint from a new batch can dry a slightly different shade.