Paint Cost Calculator – Volume, Can Mix & Total Price
Use this paint cost calculator to turn your room size and coverage into a shopping list with prices. Enter your room dimensions (or a direct paintable area), choose the number of coats, set a realistic coverage rate, and add your local can prices. We calculate total litres/gallons, suggest a can mix to cover it, and provide a materials total with optional tax.
How It Works
- Room mode: wall area =
2 × (Length + Width) × Height − doors − windows, plusLength × Widthif you include the ceiling. - Direct area: enter total paintable m²/ft² (optionally including ceilings).
- Volume:
(area × coats) ÷ coverage, then add your overage for touch-ups and roller tray losses. - Can mix: we propose large cans first and top-up with smaller sizes to cover the total; cost is based on the prices you enter.
Coverage Tips
- Smooth, previously painted walls: 10–12 m²/L (≈ 350–400 ft²/gal).
- Raw drywall or porous surfaces may need a primer coat and lower coverage.
- Dramatic color changes usually need an extra coat or a tinted primer.
More Handy Calculators
- Paint Coverage Calculator – work out litres/gal from room size.
- Wallpaper Calculator – estimate rolls for walls with doors/windows.
- Stud / Framing Calculator – plan wall framing before lining.
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.