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PaintingCeiling Paint Calculator — How Much Paint for a Ceiling?
Enter the room’s length and width and the number of coats to estimate ceiling paint. Ceilings usually take two coats, especially over patches or a color change.
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How this calculator works
We multiply length × width for the ceiling area, multiply by coats, and divide by about 350 sq ft per gallon — typical for flat ceiling paint on a smooth, primed surface.
What changes how much you need
- Two coats is standard, especially over patched drywall or when changing color.
- Textured or popcorn ceilings drink far more — figure about 250–300 sq ft per gallon.
- Flat (matte) sheen hides imperfections better than anything glossier.
- Cutting in the edges with a brush uses a little extra — round up.
Frequently asked questions
How much paint for a 12×12 ceiling?
About 1 gallon for two coats: 144 sq ft × 2 ÷ 350 ≈ 0.8 gallon, rounded up.
How many coats does a ceiling need?
Usually two for an even finish, particularly over repairs or a color change. One can do for a like-for-like refresh.
Why does a popcorn ceiling use more paint?
The texture adds surface area and soaks up paint, dropping coverage to roughly 250–300 sq ft per gallon.