Paint Calculator
Enter the area you're painting, the number of coats, and your paint's coverage rate to find how much paint to buy.
How paint quantity is calculated
The amount of paint needed is the area to cover, multiplied by the number of coats, divided by the paint's coverage rate (how much area one liter covers). Coverage rate varies significantly by paint brand, type, and the surface being painted, so check the figure printed on your specific paint can and adjust the coverage field here to match.
A coverage rate of around 10 square meters per liter is a common default for a single coat of wall paint on a primed, smooth surface, but rougher or more porous surfaces (like new drywall or masonry) typically need more paint per square meter.
Frequently asked questions
How many coats of paint do I usually need?
Two coats are standard for most walls, especially with a color change, though a single coat of paint-and-primer-in-one over a similar existing color can sometimes be enough.
How do I measure the area to paint?
Multiply the wall's width by its height for each wall, add them together, then subtract large openings like doors and windows if you want a more precise figure.
Why does my can's label suggest a different amount?
Manufacturers calculate coverage under ideal conditions; real-world texture, absorbency, and application method (roller vs. sprayer) all affect actual coverage, so treat this calculator's result as a starting estimate.