Paint Coverage per Gallon: What Number Should You Use?

Quick Answer

Most interior paint covers 350 to 400 square feet per gallon per coat on smooth walls. Textured or porous surfaces may cover only 250 to 350 square feet.

Use the [Paint Calculator](/paint-calculator) to adjust the dimensions, waste factor, product coverage, and unit price for your exact project.

Formula

``

Gallons = paintable area x coats / coverage per gallon

``

Example Estimate

1. Measure paintable wall area.

2. Choose coverage from the paint label.

3. Multiply by number of coats.

4. Round up to full gallons.

Reference Table

| Surface | Coverage per gallon |

|---|---:|

| Smooth primed wall | 375 to 400 sq ft |

| Textured wall | 250 to 350 sq ft |

| Rough masonry | 150 to 250 sq ft |

Practical Tips

- Use primer for new drywall.

- Use two coats for most finish work.

- Buy all finish paint at the same time for color consistency.

When to Round Up

Round up when the project has cuts, corners, fragile materials, uneven surfaces, delivery minimums, or any chance that matching the same product later will be difficult.

Next Step

Open the [Paint Calculator](/paint-calculator), enter your exact numbers, and save the estimate before buying materials.