How Many Sq Ft Does a Gallon of Paint Cover? (2026 Guide)
One gallon of paint covers about 350 sq ft. Full coverage table, project estimates and pro tips.
Quick answer: One gallon of paint covers about 350 sq ft on smooth, primed drywall — less on textured or rough surfaces. Use the paint calculator for your exact room.
Standard paint coverage rates
| Surface | Coverage per gallon |
|---|---|
| Smooth, primed drywall | 350-400 sq ft |
| Textured or unprimed | 250-300 sq ft |
| Wood / previously painted | 300-350 sq ft |
| Masonry / rough | 200-250 sq ft |
Why coverage varies
Paint covers differently depending on the porosity of the surface (unprimed drywall drinks paint), the texture (naps and stipples increase surface area), and the color (dark over light needs more coats). Sheen matters too — flat hides better than gloss per coat.
Coverage for common projects
| Project | Gallons (2 coats) |
|---|---|
| 12×12 bedroom | 2 gallons |
| 12×14 bedroom | 2-3 gallons |
| 14×16 master | 3 gallons |
| 1,500 sq ft house walls | 10-14 gallons |
Pro tips to stretch your paint
- Prime first — primer is cheaper than paint and lets paint cover in fewer coats
- Use a quality roller — cheap rollers leave more paint behind
- Stir properly and strain if the paint sat on the shelf
- Buy all gallons from the same batch and mix them together
FAQ
How many square feet does a quart of paint cover?
A quart covers about 85-100 sq ft (one coat) — handy for touch-ups and small walls.
Does one gallon cover a 12x12 room?
One gallon (~350 sq ft) covers about one coat of a 12×12 room's walls. Two coats need 2 gallons.
How much paint for a 1500 sq ft house?
Interior walls of a typical 1,500 sq ft house need 10-14 gallons for two coats, plus 1-2 gallons for ceilings.
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