How to Estimate Paint Coverage for a House Exterior

Paint can put a huge dent in your budget. Though you can return unused paint at most paint stores, it's a good idea to know how much an exterior paint project is going to cost when planning. Decide on the exact brand of paint you want to use or have similar brands in mind to compare prices. Because paint brands come in a whole host of prices, shop around first to get the best deal. Find out how to estimate the amount of paint you need to fully cover your home's exterior.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Steel tape measure

1. Measure the entire perimeter of your house with a steel tape measure. Write down the number, and measure the height of the house, excluding the roof.

2. Multiply both numbers together to get the square footage of your home. Subtract 21 feet for every door and 15 feet for every normal-size window. For large windows, measure the width and height and multiply those numbers. Subtract that number to get the total square footage of the house.

3. Read the label on the paint can that indicates the square footage the paint will cover. Generally, one gallon of paint will cover 300 to 400 square feet. Divide your home's square footage by the number on the can.

4. Take the total square footage for any shutters, trim or windows and divide that number by the number on the can.

5. Decide what you're going to use to paint the house. Airless sprayers spray two coats at one time; therefore, you will need to purchase double the amount of paint.

6. Find out what exterior material your home is made from before buying paint. Stucco or lap siding can take up to 50 percent more paint than painting smooth outside walls.

7. Bring your existing paint color with you to the paint store to ask if you need a primer. If you plan on using a radically different color, you may need to use a primer first.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep all receipts from paint purchases to return unused paint. Find out the store's return policy. Buy the best paint you can afford for an exterior paint job that lasts over 4 years.
• Avoid painting from the paint can, because the air can cause the paint to thicken and reduce the amount of paint coverage.

References

• How Much Paint to Buy
• Paint Buying Tips
• Paint Estimates