When it comes to home improvement projects like painting, it’s important to estimate how much paint you’ll need to finish the job. A common question that arises is how many square feet one gallon of paint will cover using two coats. The answer depends on a variety of factors, including the type of paint, the material being painted, and the application method.
Quick Answer
As a general rule of thumb, one gallon of paint will cover 300 to 400 square feet of surface area with two coats. However, this number can vary significantly based on the type of paint, the material being painted, and the application method. Flat paints will cover more area than glossy paints, porous surfaces require more paint than non-porous surfaces, and using a paint sprayer is more efficient than using a brush or roller.
What Impacts Square Footage Covered
There are several key factors that impact how far a gallon of paint will go:
Type of Paint
The type of paint used will impact coverage. Flat or matte paints contain more pigment and spread more efficiently than higher sheen paints like eggshell, satin or gloss. Because of this, flat paints will cover more square footage per gallon, while glossier paints cover less area. As a general guideline:
- Flat/matte paint – up to 400 sq ft per gallon
- Eggshell paint – 300 to 350 sq ft per gallon
- Satin paint – 300 to 350 sq ft per gallon
- Semi-gloss paint – 250 to 300 sq ft per gallon
- Gloss paint – 200 to 250 sq ft per gallon
Paint Quality
Higher quality paints often contain more solids like binders and pigments. This gives them better hiding power and spread rate compared to cheaper paints. Budget or economy paint lines will cover less area than premium or mid-range paints.
Surface Material
The material you are painting also affects coverage. Porous surfaces like drywall, plaster, wood and masonry will absorb more paint, requiring more coats for proper coverage. Non-porous surfaces like metal and plastic do not absorb paint as readily, so less paint is required.
Surface Texture
Similarly, heavily textured surfaces require more paint to fully cover compared to smooth surfaces. Textured walls or ceilings have grooves that trap paint and prevent efficient spreading. More paint is needed to adequately coat each groove.
Application Method
Using a paint sprayer is the most efficient application method in terms of coverage. Sprayers deposit a thin, even coat and minimize waste. Paint rollers or brushes require more paint to achieve full coverage without thin spots or streaks. Taking the time to properly prep surfaces and using high quality application tools will also maximize coverage.
How to Calculate Square Footage
To estimate how much paint you’ll need for a project, you first need to calculate the square footage of the surfaces to be painted. Here are some tips:
- For rectangular rooms, multiply the length by the width. For example, a 10 x 12 foot room is 120 sq ft.
- For complex wall shapes, measure each wall section separately then add them together.
- Measure wall height to account for painting above doorways or wainscoting.
- Remember to include trim, doors, windows and ceilings if painting those areas.
- Use a paint calculator to estimate irregular spaces like foyers or staircases.
Once you know the total square footage, divide by the estimated coverage rate of your paint to determine roughly how many gallons you’ll need. Provide a buffer of 10-20% more paint for safety.
Factors that Reduce Square Footage Covered
While the above estimates provide a helpful starting point, several factors can alter the actual coverage rate and require purchasing more paint:
Dark Paint Colors
Darker colors like deep reds, greens and blues are often less opaque than lighter shades. More coats may be needed to fully hide the existing color underneath, reducing overall coverage per gallon.
Bright White Paints
On the other hand, bright white paint can also cover less area. The high amount of titanium dioxide pigment allows deep penetration, but also makes the paint thinner with less hiding power.
Sealing Previously Unpainted Surfaces
Painting over raw wood, masonry or drywall for the first time requires a sealing primer coat. The sealing effect causes the primer to be absorbed more, reducing square foot coverage compared to painting over an existing coat of paint.
Applying a Second Coat Too Thin
It’s common for the second coat of paint to go further than the first coat over an unpainted surface. However, be careful not to apply the second coat too lightly or it may not provide adequate protection. Spreading a second coat too thin reduces its durability and longevity.
Surface Imperfections
Cracks, holes, indented textures and other imperfections in the surface also increase the amount of paint required. These areas soak up more paint as it fills in the voids.
Insufficient Primer
Applying primer too lightly can lead to inadequate sealing and preparation. The topcoat will then soak in more on unfinished areas, reducing coverage across the overall surface.
Tips to Maximize Square Footage Covered
To get the most out of each gallon of paint, keep these tips in mind:
- Use quality primer/sealer on bare surfaces
- Apply primer generously to properly seal porous areas
- Allow proper drying time between coats
- Use an eggshell or satin paint for easier touch-ups
- Use flat paint for ceilings and low-traffic areas
- Use gloss or semi-gloss paint only where needed
- Buy quality brushes and roller covers suited for your paint
- Maintain a wet edge to prevent lap marks while painting
- Consider using a paint sprayer for the fastest, most efficient application
How Much Paint is Needed for Various Room Sizes?
As a helpful reference, here are estimates on how much paint is required for typical room dimensions:
| Room Size | Square Footage | Paint Needed (2 coats) |
|---|---|---|
| Small bedroom | 10 x 12 ft = 120 sq ft | 1 gallon |
| Medium bedroom | 12 x 15 ft = 180 sq ft | 1-2 gallons |
| Large master bedroom | 15 x 20 ft = 300 sq ft | 2-3 gallons |
| Small living room | 12 x 15 ft = 180 sq ft | 1-2 gallons |
| Medium living room | 15 x 20 ft = 300 sq ft | 2-3 gallons |
| Large living room | 20 x 25 ft = 500 sq ft | 4-5 gallons |
| Small kitchen | 10 x 15 ft = 150 sq ft | 1-2 gallons |
| Medium kitchen | 15 x 20 ft = 300 sq ft | 2-3 gallons |
| Large kitchen | 20 x 25 ft = 500 sq ft | 4-5 gallons |
These amounts are based on a mid-range paint covering approximately 350 square feet per gallon with two coats. Flat paints may allow room sizes at the lower end of each range to be covered with one less gallon. Smaller rooms like bathrooms, laundry rooms or closets will need less than a full gallon. Unfinished basements, garages or exterior painting will require substantially more paint due to the larger surface areas involved.
Conclusion
How far a gallon of paint will go depends on several variables, but on average expect 300-400 square feet of coverage per gallon when applying two coats. Measure surface areas accurately, account for the type of paint and surfaces involved, and provide some extra as a buffer to ensure having sufficient paint. With some planning and prep work, you can minimize the amount of paint needed and avoid running out before the project is complete.
