Paint Coverage Per Gallon

Understand common paint coverage rates and when to adjust gallons for texture, primer, and extra coats.

Start with label coverage

Many interior paints list coverage around 300-400 square feet per gallon per coat. The label is the best source for the specific product.

Smooth primed drywall uses less paint than rough plaster, brick, heavy texture, or patched walls.

Going from dark to light, bright to neutral, or bare surface to finish color often needs primer or extra coats.

Buying one extra quart or rounding up to the next gallon can avoid mismatched touch-up paint later.

Is 400 square feet per gallon realistic?

It can be realistic on smooth, sealed surfaces with good paint. Rough surfaces need more.

Does primer count as a coat?

Primer is a separate product and should be estimated separately.

Should ceilings use the same coverage?

Ceilings often use similar coverage, but textured ceilings may need more paint.

Open the calculators and enter your dimensions to estimate materials before you shop.