Paint Cost Estimator
Plan your construction cost project with our free paint cost calculator. Get precise measurements, material lists, and budgets.
Formula
Gallons = (Wall Area x Coats) / Coverage per Gallon; Total = Paint Cost + Labor + Primer + Supplies
Multiply the paintable wall area by the number of coats to get the total coverage area. Divide by the coverage rate per gallon (typically 300-400 sq ft) and round up to get gallons needed. Add primer, labor (calculated per square foot of wall area), and supply costs for the total project estimate.
Worked Examples
Example 1: Standard Room Repaint
Problem: Estimate the cost to paint a 400 sq ft room with 2 coats of paint at $40/gallon (350 sq ft coverage), $2.00/sf labor.
Solution: Coverage needed = 400 x 2 = 800 sq ft\nGallons = ceil(800 / 350) = 3 gallons\nPaint cost = 3 x $40 = $120\nLabor = 400 x $2.00 = $800\nPrimer = 1 gal x $30 = $30\nSupplies = 400 x $0.15 = $60\nTotal = $120 + $800 + $30 + $60 = $1,010
Result: $1,010 total ($2.53/sq ft)
Example 2: Whole House Interior
Problem: Estimate cost for 2,500 sq ft of walls, 2 coats at $50/gallon premium paint (350 sq ft coverage), $3.00/sf labor.
Solution: Coverage needed = 2,500 x 2 = 5,000 sq ft\nGallons = ceil(5,000 / 350) = 15 gallons\nPaint cost = 15 x $50 = $750\nLabor = 2,500 x $3.00 = $7,500\nPrimer = 7 gal x $30 = $210\nSupplies = 2,500 x $0.15 = $375\nTotal = $750 + $7,500 + $210 + $375 = $8,835
Result: $8,835 total ($3.53/sq ft)
Frequently Asked Questions
How much paint do I need per square foot of wall?
One gallon of paint typically covers 300-400 square feet per coat, depending on the paint quality, surface texture, and application method. Smooth drywall offers the best coverage at around 350-400 sq ft per gallon, while textured surfaces like stucco or brick may only yield 200-300 sq ft. Dark colors over light surfaces and vice versa may require additional coats for full coverage. Always calculate based on the number of coats needed, not just the wall area.
Is it cheaper to paint yourself or hire a professional?
DIY painting eliminates the labor cost, which is typically 70-80% of a professional painting bid. For a 1,500 sq ft house interior, a professional might charge $3,000-$5,000, while DIY materials cost $500-$800. However, professionals work 3-5 times faster, deliver more consistent results, and handle preparation and cleanup. The DIY approach makes financial sense for single rooms or touch-ups. For whole-house projects or high ceilings, the time investment and quality difference often justify professional labor.
Do I need primer before painting, and how much does it cost?
Primer is recommended when painting over new drywall, stains, dark colors, or when making a dramatic color change. Self-priming paints can skip this step for routine repaints over similar colors. Primer covers approximately 300-400 sq ft per gallon and costs $25-$40 per gallon for quality products. Using primer actually saves money on paint because it seals the surface and provides a uniform base, often reducing the number of topcoats needed from three to two. Specialty primers for stain blocking and adhesion cost $35-$60 per gallon.
What factors affect the total cost of a painting project?
The major cost factors include the surface area to be painted, the number of coats required, paint quality (ranging from $25 to $75+ per gallon), surface preparation needs (patching, sanding, caulking), ceiling height and accessibility (requiring ladders or scaffolding), trim and detail work, and labor rates which vary by region from $1.50 to $4.00 per square foot. Surface condition has the biggest impact on labor time and therefore cost. A room that needs extensive patching and priming can cost twice as much as a room in good condition.
How do I estimate paint coverage for a room?
One gallon covers approximately 350-400 square feet per coat. Calculate wall area by multiplying perimeter by ceiling height, then subtract window and door openings. Most jobs need two coats, so divide total area by 175-200 per gallon. Add 10% for touch-ups and waste.
How accurate are the results from Paint Cost Estimator?
All calculations use established mathematical formulas and are performed with high-precision arithmetic. Results are accurate to the precision shown. For critical decisions in finance, medicine, or engineering, always verify results with a qualified professional.