Unit System

Input Mode

Waste / Offcuts

Room Length (ft)

Room Width (ft)

Wall Height (ft)

Include ceiling

Total Openings Area (ft²) — doors/windows

Tip: If unsure, add ~20–30 ft² for a typical door + window combo.

Sheet Size

Tip: For 9–10 ft walls, 4×12 hung horizontally reduces butt joints.

Drywall Type / Thickness

Ceilings often use 5/8" for stiffness.

Fastener Type

Rule of thumb: ~1.2 fasteners per ft² on walls, ~1.4 on ceilings.

Tape Roll Length (ft)

Joint Compound Coverage (ft²/bucket)

Corner Bead Stick Length (ft)

Outside Corners (qty)

Corner Height (ft)

Drywall Calculator – Sheets, Screws, Tape & Mud

Use this drywall calculator to estimate how many sheets and materials you need for walls and ceilings. Enter room length, width, wall height, and openings — or type in a total area — then choose a sheet size (4×8, 4×10, 4×12 or custom) and waste factor. The tool returns a complete material estimate including drywall sheets, screws or nails, joint tape rolls, joint compound buckets, and corner bead sticks.

Recommended Sizes & Tips

8′ walls: 4×8 or 4×12 hung horizontally reduces seams.
9–10′ walls: 4×12 is ideal to minimize butt joints.
Ceilings: 5/8″ board helps reduce sag, especially with insulation.
Openings: Subtract door and window area for a more precise sheet count.

How We Estimate

Net area = wall area (perimeter × height) plus optional ceiling area, minus openings. Sheets = ceil(net area ÷ sheet area × (1 + waste%)). Screws are estimated by area (~1.2 per ft² on walls, ~1.4 per ft² on ceilings). Tape is approximated from net area and seam sharing. Joint compound uses a default coverage of ~400 ft² per 4.5 gal bucket.

Related Tools

For panel projects and finishing, try the Plywood Calculator and Resin Calculator.

Important Estimate Disclaimer

The results provided by this calculator are intended as general estimates only and should not be considered precise engineering measurements. Actual material requirements, costs, and quantities can vary significantly based on site conditions, local building codes, soil type, reinforcement requirements, climate exposure, and the intended use of your project.

These calculators are designed to help you plan and budget your project more effectively, but they do not replace professional advice from a qualified contractor, engineer, or building inspector. Always verify your calculations and assumptions with trained professionals before placing material orders or commencing construction.

For more information on the assumptions, formulas, and data used in these tools, see our Data Sources and Methodology pages.

Material estimates, cost figures, and volume calculations are approximate and may not reflect your actual requirements. Always double-check dimensions and project-specific needs, and consider adding a contingency allowance for waste, over-excavation, and unforeseen conditions.

If you are unsure about any aspect of your project — including structural requirements, reinforcement needs, drainage, or load-bearing capacity — consult with a licensed professional before proceeding.