When it comes to exterior house painting, knowing how much paint to buy is half the battle. A lot of homeowners make the mistake of simply buying the same amount of paint that worked for a smaller project or an interior room. But the exterior of your home is a whole different beast! The walls, texture, humidity, and outdoor conditions all play a role in how much paint is actually required.
So, what’s the best way to figure it out?
The Formula to Calculate Paint Quantity
Once you’ve measured the surface area and know the paint coverage per gallon, use this formula to calculate how much paint you need:
Step 1: Measure the Surface Area
The first step in calculating how much paint you need is measuring the total area to be painted. I remember when I was tackling my own home’s exterior, I initially underestimated how much surface area I needed to account for. Doors, windows, and trim all add up quickly!
How to Measure Surface Area:
- Walls: Measure the height and width of each exterior wall. Multiply these numbers together to get the square footage for each wall.
- Windows and Doors: Don’t forget to subtract the areas of any windows and doors since these don’t need paint. Measure each window and door, and subtract these areas from the total.
Once you have all your measurements, you can add them up to get the total square footage of the walls that need painting.
Step 2: Know Your Paint Coverage Per Gallon
One of the key factors that will affect your paint needs is the paint coverage per gallon. This number typically appears on the side of your paint can, but for most paints, it’s around 350 to 400 square feet per gallon for one coat. However, this can vary depending on the brand, type of paint, and surface texture.
Understanding how different surfaces affect paint coverage is crucial. Here’s a general guide to help you estimate: Note: These are approximate values and can vary based on paint brand and application method.
Step 3: Factor in the Number of Coats
I always suggest applying two coats for a long-lasting and professional finish. The first coat often absorbs into the surface, and the second provides a more even, vibrant color. Keep in mind that applying two coats will double the amount of paint needed.
If you’re just doing one coat, you can calculate the total paint needed using the square footage and coverage as described. For two coats, simply multiply your total paint estimate by 2.
Using a Paint Estimator Tool for Accuracy
I’ve found that paint estimator tools are incredibly helpful. These tools take all the guesswork out of the process. By inputting your surface area, the type of paint you’re using, and the number of coats, an exterior paint estimator can calculate the exact amount of paint you’ll need.
These tools are handy when you want an instant, accurate estimate, especially for large projects. Whether you’re painting your home yourself or hiring a pro, this tool helps you avoid wasting paint or buying too little.
Factors That Impact Paint Quantity
It’s important to note that several factors can affect how much paint you’ll need for your exterior project:
- Type of Paint: The type of paint you choose will affect coverage. Latex paints tend to cover more area than oil-based paints. Additionally, the finish (matte, satin, glossy) can affect coverage.
- Surface Texture: Smooth surfaces like siding will require less paint than rough surfaces such as brick or stucco.
- Climate: In areas like Eagle, ID, the dry climate can make paint dry quicker, leading to a thinner application. Be sure to adjust for that by buying a little extra.
Funky Painting Can Help
All of this may sound overwhelming, but if you’re ready to dive into your exterior house painting project, Funky Painting is here to help! We specialize in exterior house painting and can help you with everything from accurate estimates to top-quality finishes.
Our expert exterior house painters in Eagle, ID, have experience in handling all types of surfaces, ensuring your home gets the best possible coverage and durability.
Completing Your Perfect Exterior Makeover
Estimating how much paint you need doesn’t have to be a guessing game. With the right measurements, a solid understanding of paint coverage per gallon, and the right tools, you can make sure you get just the right amount of paint for your home. Whether you’re painting your exterior yourself or hiring a pro, Funky Painting has the tools and experience to make your project a success.
Ready to get started? We proudly serve Star, Eagle, Meridian, and the surrounding Idaho suburbs. Call us today at 208-990-5363 for your FREE estimate. We’ll help you get the perfect painting project, every time!
