1 Gallon Of Paint Coverage

Use the Paint Calculator tool to estimate how much paint you need for your project. Enter the measurements of the surface and choose the calculation option, and get the gallons per coat needed. Complete guide to paint coverage rates by type.

Learn how many square feet a gallon of paint covers, when to use primer, and factors that affect coverage for accurate paint estimates. Paint usually is applied at 350 to 400 square feet per gallon (primer at 200 to 300 square feet per gallon). Use the Area section below to calculate the walls and ceiling values.

"In general, a high-quality gallon of paint should cover about 400 square feet," says Nicole Gibbons, founder and CEO of paint company Clare. "Paint brands tend to have good, better, and best paint formulas with slightly different price points and quality levels. One gallon of paint typically covers between 350 to 400 square feet on smooth surfaces like drywall.

Textured surfaces, however, absorb more paint, reducing coverage to about 250 to 350 square feet per gallon. For standard interior walls, one gallon of paint usually covers between 300 and 400 square feet per coat. Smooth, primed walls maximize coverage, while textured or unprimed walls may require extra paint.

Multiple coats for color changes or full opacity will reduce the total area a gallon can cover.