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Paint Coverage Chart by Room Size
Use this paint coverage chart to estimate paintable wall area, two-coat coverage, and gallons to buy for common room sizes. Use the chart as a quick planning reference, then use Paint Coverage Calculator when you need exact numbers for your own inputs.
Chart values
| Room size | Paintable wall area | Calculated gallons | Gallons to buy |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10 x 10 room | 280 sq ft | 1.8 gal | 2 gallons |
| 12 x 12 room | 344 sq ft | 2.2 gal | 3 gallons |
| 12 x 15 room | 392 sq ft | 2.5 gal | 3 gallons |
| 15 x 20 room | 500 sq ft | 3.1 gal | 4 gallons |
Calculated from the existing paint coverage calculator inputs: wall area, opening area, coats, coverage per gallon, and waste percent.
How to use this chart
Pick the room size closest to your project, then use the gallons-to-buy column as a shopping starting point for walls only.
When to use the calculator instead
Use the calculator when your measurements, rates, room conditions, local prices, tank setup, loan terms, or classroom routine do not match the simple chart rows. The calculator lets you adjust the inputs instead of forcing your situation into a rough example.
Examples from this chart
Worked example
A 12 x 12 room with an 8 ft ceiling, 40 sq ft of openings, two coats, 350 sq ft/gallon coverage, and 10% waste calculates to about 2.2 gallons, so the chart rounds to 3 gallons to buy.
Limitations and assumptions
Rows assume 8 ft ceilings, four walls, common opening allowances, two coats, 350 sq ft/gallon paint coverage, and 10% waste. Ceilings, primer, cabinets, texture, and strong color changes need separate checks.
Save or share this chart
You can print this page, save the tall image for planning, or link to the page from a blog post, classroom resource, forum answer, or project checklist so readers can open the calculator too.
Chart questions
Chart questions
Does this paint chart include ceilings?
No. These rows are for walls only. Add ceiling area or use the calculator if you are painting ceilings too.
Should I buy extra paint for touch-ups?
Keeping a small extra amount helps with touch-ups, rough surfaces, roller loading, and future repairs.