Paint Coverage Estimator

How This Tool Works

This calculator estimates paint needed based on wall area and paint type. Different paint finishes have different coverage rates per liter because they contain varying amounts of solids, pigments, and binders. Flat and matte paints typically provide the best coverage (more square meters per liter) because they contain more solids and have better hiding power. Glossy paints contain more binders and less pigment, resulting in lower coverage rates.

The calculation also considers that most painting projects require two coats for proper coverage, color depth, and durability. However, this calculator provides the amount needed for one coat - you'll need to double the amount for two coats. Always add 10-20% extra to account for waste, touch-ups, and coverage variations. Surface texture, porosity, and color changes (light to dark or vice versa) can also affect actual coverage, so it's better to have a bit extra paint than to run short mid-project.

Paint Coverage by Type

• Flat/Matte: 10-12 m² per liter - best coverage, hides imperfections well
• Eggshell: 9-11 m² per liter - good coverage, slight sheen
• Satin: 8-10 m² per liter - moderate coverage, smooth finish
• Semi-Gloss: 7-9 m² per liter - lower coverage, durable, easy to clean
• Gloss: 6-8 m² per liter - lowest coverage, very durable, high shine
• Note: Coverage varies by brand - always check the paint can label for specific coverage

Painting Tips & Best Practices

• Calculate Area: Measure length × height for each wall, subtract windows/doors (roughly 2m² each)
• Plan for Two Coats: Most projects need two coats - multiply one-coat amount by 2
• Add Extra: Add 10-20% extra for waste, touch-ups, and coverage variations
• Check Paint Label: Always check the specific paint can for coverage - it varies by brand and formula
• Surface Preparation: Properly prepared surfaces (primed, smooth) provide better coverage
• Color Changes: Dark to light or light to dark may require extra coats - plan accordingly
• Buy All at Once: Buy all paint needed at once to ensure color consistency between batches
• Test Coverage: Paint a small test area to verify coverage before committing to the full project

FAQ

• How much paint do I need?
  Paint coverage depends on paint type, surface texture, and color changes. Flat paint typically covers 10-12 m² per liter, while gloss paint covers about 6-8 m² per liter. However, always check the specific paint can label for exact coverage - it varies by brand and formula. Most projects require two coats for proper coverage, so multiply your one-coat amount by 2. Also add 10-20% extra for waste, touch-ups, and coverage variations. Rough surfaces, porous walls, or dramatic color changes may require more paint.
• Does paint type affect coverage?
  Yes, paint finish significantly affects coverage. Flat and matte paints provide the best coverage (10-12 m² per liter) because they contain more solids and pigments with better hiding power. Eggshell covers 9-11 m² per liter. Satin covers 8-10 m² per liter. Semi-gloss covers 7-9 m² per liter. Gloss provides the lowest coverage (6-8 m² per liter) because it contains more binders and less pigment. Glossier paints may also require more coats for full coverage, especially when covering dark colors with light colors.
• Do I need primer?
  Primer is recommended for: New drywall or plaster, unpainted surfaces, dramatic color changes (especially dark to light), stained or damaged surfaces, and surfaces with different textures. Primer helps paint adhere better, improves coverage, and can reduce the number of paint coats needed. Some paints are "paint and primer in one" which can work for minor color changes, but true primer is still recommended for new or problematic surfaces. Primer typically covers 10-12 m² per liter, similar to flat paint.
• How do I calculate wall area?
  Measure each wall: Length × Height = area in square meters. Add all wall areas together. Subtract areas you won't paint: Windows (roughly 1.5-2 m² each), Doors (roughly 2 m² each), Built-in cabinets or fixtures. For example, a room with 4 walls (each 4m × 2.5m) = 4 × (4 × 2.5) = 40 m² total. Subtract 2 windows (3 m²) and 1 door (2 m²) = 35 m² to paint. Don't forget to include ceilings if painting them - ceiling area = length × width of room.
• How many coats do I need?
  Most interior painting projects require two coats for proper coverage, color depth, and durability. One coat may work for: Touching up the same color, very high-quality paint on well-prepared surfaces, or minor color changes. Two coats are recommended for: New paint jobs, color changes (especially light to dark or dark to light), achieving full color depth, and ensuring durability. Some situations may need three coats: Very dark colors, covering stains, or dramatic color changes. The calculator provides one-coat amounts - multiply by 2 for two coats.
• What affects actual paint coverage?
  Several factors affect actual coverage: Surface texture (rough surfaces need more paint), surface porosity (porous surfaces absorb more paint), color change (dark to light or light to dark may need extra coats), paint quality (higher quality often provides better coverage), application method (roller vs. brush affects coverage), and environmental conditions (temperature and humidity). Always buy 10-20% more paint than calculated to account for these variables. It's better to have leftover paint for touch-ups than to run short.