Free Tool
Paint Calculator
Get an exact materials list, total cost, and time estimate — down to the tape, brushes, and trays.
Your Project
Complete Materials List
How Much Paint Do You Need?
The standard rule is one gallon of paint covers approximately 350–400 square feet per coat. But your actual number depends on wall height, how many doors and windows you're subtracting, whether you're priming first, and how many coats you apply. This calculator accounts for all of it.
For a typical 1,200 sq ft condo with 9-foot ceilings, two coats, and standard-quality paint, expect to buy 6–8 gallons of wall paint and spend $350–$550 on all materials combined.
What's the Total Cost to Paint a Home?
DIY painting costs are primarily materials — paint, prep supplies, and tools. Professional labor typically runs $2–$6 per square foot on top of materials. Doing it yourself on a 1,200 sq ft condo typically saves $1,500–$3,500 compared to hiring out.
Time to Paint a Room vs. a Whole Condo
A single room with two coats takes a full day — roughly 6–8 hours including prep, painting, waiting for coats to dry, and cleanup. A whole condo is typically a 3–4 day project spread across a weekend, especially accounting for drying time between coats.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need primer before painting?
Yes if: you're going from dark to light, covering stains or water damage, painting new drywall, or switching paint finishes (e.g., oil to latex). For same-color touch-ups or light color changes, you can skip it.
How many coats of paint do I need?
Two coats is standard for any color change and gives the most even, durable finish. One coat works for touch-ups or same-color refreshes. Three coats may be needed for very dramatic changes like white over deep red.
What's the difference between Good, Better, and Best paint?
Good-quality paint (Behr, Glidden, ~$32/gal) covers and washes acceptably. Better paint (Sherwin-Williams Cashmere, ~$58/gal) has better hide, goes on smoother, and lasts longer. Best paint (Benjamin Moore Aura, ~$78/gal) has exceptional durability, color accuracy, and is usually one-coat capable — which can offset the cost difference.
What nap roller should I use?
Use 3/8" nap for smooth to slightly textured walls (most drywall). Use 1/2" nap for orange-peel or moderate texture. Use 3/4" nap for heavy texture like stucco or brick. A 3/8" roller is correct for most interior residential painting.
How do I calculate paint for rooms with high ceilings?
Change the ceiling height input in the calculator above. Higher ceilings mean more wall area — a 12-foot ceiling adds roughly 50% more wall paint vs. an 8-foot ceiling for the same floor area.