Paint Calculator — Gallons You Need
Enter your dimensions for an instant answer — the exact quantity to buy (waste included), a material cost, and an estimated installed cost. Change any figure to update the result live.
Your project
Standard size shown by default. Change any value — the answer recomputes instantly.
You need
3gallons
Exact need: 2.29 gallons
Material cost
$84–$180
Installed (US avg)
$594–$870
Shopping list
| ITEM | QTY | PRICE RANGE |
|---|---|---|
| gallons | 3 | $84–$180 |
| Estimated material total | $84–$180 |
Material spec & worked example
Coverage
350 ft²/gal/coat
Waste allowance
0%
Typical price
$28–$60 gallons
400 sq ft, 2 coats: you need 2.29 gallons (buy 3 with waste), about $84–$180 in materials. See how we calculate this →
Installed cost by state
See a regionally-adjusted installed estimate — materials, labor, total.
View cost by state →Frequently asked
How much paint do I need?
One gallon covers about 350 square feet per coat. Divide your wall area by 350, multiply by coats, and round up. The calculator does this automatically.
How many coats of paint?
Two coats is standard for even coverage; three if you are covering a dark colour or bare drywall.