Estimating the Amount of Paint You Will Need
Before you buy, make sure to measure, calculate, and estimate the number of coats you’ll need to complete your paint job.

After you determine the type of paint for your project, the best gloss level to use, and the color scheme you want to achieve, you will need to estimate the amount of paint you should buy. You can save time by doing this before you go to the paint store.
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Paint Estimation Chart
To compute the amount of paint you will need, use this worksheet. Remember, the figure below is for one coat; double the total for two-coat coverage.

*Spread rate is the typical coverage you can expect. Read the label on the can for the manufacturer’s recommendation and change this figure if necessary. The typical spread rate for a US gallon of paint is 400 square feet/11m2 per L.
Measure and Calculate Coverage
Begin by measuring the dimensions of the surface area to be painted, and then multiply the height by the width. Perform the same calculation for areas that will not be painted, such as doors and windows. Then subtract non-paint areas from the overall surface area to get an estimate of the square footage you will be painting.
Once you choose your paint, look at the label to determine the spread rate of the paint, or the number of square feet (m2) of surface each coat of paint will cover. For many paints, this will be 400 square feet per gallon (11m2 per L). Divide the total surface area by this number to determine the number of gallons/liters you will need for each coat.
Number of Coats
Many factors—including the type of paint, the color you are applying, the method of application, and the nature of the surface—determine the number of coats you should apply. For example, you will likely need a second coat of paint when covering a dark color with a lighter one. Also, certain surfaces, like exterior masonry, are very porous and absorb a great deal of paint. In such cases, a second coat is often needed to give the paint a uniform appearance. Using a brush will put on a heavier, better-hiding coat than roller application.
It is always wise to apply two coats of paint when doing exterior painting. Field tests conclusively show that it is always better to apply two coats of paint at the normal spread rate than one thick coat. Two-coat coverage does a better job of standing up to harsh weather and environmental conditions, and can extend the life of your paintjob.
One final tip: It is better to buy more paint than you think you will need than to run out before the job is done. Purchasing all your paint at once will help ensure can-to-can color consistency, and save time on trips to the store. If you have leftover paint, you can always use it for touch-ups. Unused and unopened paint may be returned for credit, unless it is a custom color.
 

 

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