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Buying paint might seem straightforward, but if you’ve ever been halfway through a job and realised you’re short, you’ll know how frustrating that can be. On the other hand, overbuying leaves you with tins of leftover paint that’ll probably sit in the shed for years. Knowing how much paint to buy before you start can save you time, money, and stress. Here are some simple tips to help you figure out exactly how much paint you’ll need for your next project.
1. Start by calculating your paintable area
Before you can work out how much paint to buy, you need to know the total surface area you’ll be covering. Measure the height and width of each wall, multiply them together, and add up the totals for all the surfaces you plan to paint. That gives you the square footage. Then, subtract the size of any doors, windows, or built-in features. What’s left is your paintable area, the area that you would actually need to buy paint for.
2. Use paint coverage rates to estimate litres needed
Once you know your paintable area, divide it by your paint’s coverage rate. Most paints cover around 10 to 12 square metres per litre, or 300 to 400 square feet per gallon. If you’re unsure, check the paint tin or the manufacturer’s website. For example, if you’re painting a 10×10 foot room (about 9 square metres of wall per side), you’ll need roughly one gallon or four litres of paint. Bigger rooms, textured walls, or multiple coats will increase that amount.
3. Use a paint calculator
If math isn’t your thing, then you can always use a paint calculator to work out how much paint you need. You would still need to take measurements though. You just plug in your measurements and the number of coats, and it’ll tell you how much to buy. It’s a simple way to double-check your manual estimate before heading to the store.
4. Expect to add more coats when switching colours
Switching from a light colour to a dark one (or the other way around) usually means more coats. If you’re painting over navy blue with white, expect to need at least three coats for full coverage.
Bright reds, oranges, and purples can also take extra layers to look even.
If the new colour is similar to the old one, you might only need one or two coats. Using a tinted primer underneath can also help reduce how many coats you’ll need, but we’ll talk more about that later.
5. Factor in surface texture and material type
Textured walls, brick, and rough weatherboards soak up more paint than flat, smooth surfaces. The rougher the texture, the more paint you’ll need, sometimes up to 50 per cent more. If you’re painting porous materials like bare plaster or untreated timber, they’ll also absorb extra paint, especially if they haven’t been primed first, so be sure to factor that in too.
6. Always prime before applying paint
Always use a primer; it’s basically your secret weapon for saving paint. Bare wood, new plaster, and previously unpainted surfaces absorb more paint without it. A good primer seals the surface, helps the topcoat stick better, and means you’ll use fewer coats overall. Primers are cheaper than paint, so applying one coat before painting can actually save money in the long run.
7. Plan for some maintenance
When you’re painting the exterior of your own house, you will undoubtedly come across a crack or some damage that needs to be repaired before you can paint over it. It would be in your best interest to fix any issues you see before you repaint because most cracks or dampness issues are progressive, meaning they will most likely get worse the longer you leave them.
8. Budget wisely
It’s tempting to buy the cheapest paint, but cheaper options often don’t go as far or last as long. Higher-quality paints have better pigments and binders, giving you better coverage and durability.
You’ll need fewer coats, which saves money in the long run. If you’re unsure about how much to buy or which brand to choose, have a chat with the paint experts at your local store. Bring your wall measurements and photos if possible, and they can help calculate the exact amount you’ll need.
Hire a professional painter
Hiring a professional painter might be the best move if all this sounds overwhelming, or if you’ve got a big project like an entire exterior. Contact DC Decorators & Painters Brisbane, they’ll know exactly how much paint to buy, how to prep the surface, and how to get a flawless finish. Plus, you won’t have to spend your weekends on a ladder.
Final thoughts
Estimating how much paint to buy doesn’t have to be a guessing game. A few quick measurements, a calculator, and a chat with your local paint expert can make all the difference. Whether you’re freshening up a single room or tackling your whole house, taking the time to plan will help you paint smarter, buy right, and get a professional-looking result without the waste.
Disclosure: This post has been provided in accordance with my disclosure policy.
