How Much Does A Gallon of Paint Cover?
- Devin Spahr
- Jun 26
- 5 min read
Updated: 6 days ago
If you’re planning a paint project, one of the first things you’ll probably ask is, how much does a gallon of paint cover? It’s a good question and one that can save you time, money, and extra trips to the store. The answer depends on a few things like the type of surface you’re painting, the texture, and how many coats you’ll need. Keep reading, and we’ll break it down in a simple way so you can figure out exactly how much paint you’ll need for your next project. If you're looking for a painting company, we serve the entire Tucson area, including Marana and Sahuarita.
How Many Square Feet Does a Gallon of Paint Cover?
On average, one gallon covers about 350 to 400 square feet with a single coat on a smooth, primed surface. That’s roughly the size of a small bedroom, a couple of accent walls, or a large ceiling. Paint labels usually list the expected coverage range, so be sure to check before you buy.
Keep in mind, the actual number can vary depending on the paint brand and type. Thicker, high-quality paints often cover better and may stretch a little further, while thinner or budget-friendly options may require more to get solid coverage. Also, paints with built-in primer tend to go further than regular wall paint when applied over previously painted surfaces.
How to Calculate it
To get started, measure the area you plan to paint. For walls, multiply the length by the height of each wall to get the square footage, then add those together. If you’re painting a ceiling, multiply the length and width of the room. Don’t forget to subtract windows, doors, and any areas you won’t be painting. Each door is about 20 square feet and each window about 15 square feet, on average.
Once you have the total square footage, divide that number by the paint’s coverage rate. For example, if your walls add up to 800 square feet and the paint covers 400 square feet per gallon, you’ll need two gallons for one coat. Always round up to account for touch-ups and extra coverage. Buying a little extra is better than running out mid-project.
What If You’re Doing Two Coats?
If you’re doing two coats, you’ll need to double the amount of paint. So if one gallon covers about 350 square feet for a single coat, it’ll only cover about 175 square feet for two coats. Some surfaces, especially bare drywall, unpainted wood, or drastic color changes, really benefit from that second coat for even coverage and a smoother finish.
Is It The Same For Textured Walls?
Textured walls tend to soak up more paint than smooth ones, so you won’t get the same coverage per gallon. Instead of the typical 350 to 400 square feet, you might get closer to 250 to 300 square feet per gallon depending on how rough the surface is. That extra surface area from the bumps and grooves means more paint is needed to fully coat it.
Is Drywall Different?
Yes, drywall is definitely different, especially if it’s new or has never been painted. Fresh drywall tends to absorb a lot of paint, which means you won’t get as much coverage out of a gallon as you would on a sealed or previously painted surface. In many cases, it’s recommended to apply a primer first to seal the surface and help the paint go on more evenly. Without primer, you might find yourself using more paint just to get decent coverage. So while one gallon might normally cover 350 to 400 square feet, it could be much less on bare drywall without proper prep.
Do You Need More Paint For Dramatic Color Changes?
You’ll always need more paint when you're making a dramatic color change. This is especially true if you're going from a dark color to a light one or vice versa. For example, if you’re painting over a deep navy blue wall with a light beige or white, the darker color can show through unless you use extra coats. Even with high-quality paint, it can take two or even three coats to fully cover that dark base. Using a primer or a paint-and-primer-in-one can help cut down the number of coats needed, but you’ll still want to plan for extra paint in your budget.
Can a Gallon of Paint Cover a Bedroom?
A gallon of paint can usually cover a bedroom, but it really depends on the size of the room and how many coats you’re planning. On average, a gallon covers about 350 to 400 square feet. A small bedroom with four walls that are each about 10 feet wide and 8 feet high totals roughly 320 square feet, not counting windows and doors. So one gallon could be enough for a single coat.
However, most bedrooms need at least two coats for good coverage, especially if you’re switching colors or painting over a surface that’s never been painted before. In that case, you’d likely need two gallons. If the room has textured walls, vaulted ceilings, or you’re using a color that doesn’t cover well (like bright reds or yellows), it’s smart to have a little extra on hand.
What Tools Do You Need?
Before starting a DIY painting project, it helps to have all the right tools ready to go. At a minimum, you’ll need:
Paint rollers and roller covers – Great for covering large areas quickly
Angled paintbrushes – Perfect for cutting in around corners, ceilings, and trim
Painter’s tape – Helps keep clean lines around baseboards, windows, and doors
Drop cloths or plastic sheeting – To protect your floors and furniture from drips and spills
Paint tray and liners – Makes it easier to load up your roller without making a mess
Stir sticks – You’ll want to stir your paint before and sometimes during use to keep it mixed evenly
Ladder or step stool – For reaching those high spots or ceiling edges
Old rags- To wipe away the little drips or drops of paint on baseboards or the ceiling
Depending on the condition of your walls, you might also need sandpaper or a sanding sponge to smooth out rough areas, and spackling paste to fill in any holes or dents. Having everything prepped and within reach makes the job go smoother and saves you trips back and forth to the store.
How Much Does A Gallon Of Paint Cover Conclusion
When it comes to figuring out how far a gallon of paint will go, there’s more to it than just reading the label. Surface type, wall texture, room size, and even color changes all play a part in how much paint you’ll actually need. Taking the time to calculate and plan ahead can make your painting project a lot less stressful and a lot more successful.
If you’re in the Tucson area and thinking about hiring a professional instead, reach out to our team at Spahr’s Painting. Homeowners choose us for our reliable service, attention to detail, and clean, high-quality finishes. Whether it’s one room or the entire house, we take pride in delivering results you’ll feel good about every time you walk in the door.
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