How to use the Paint Calculator
- 1 Enter the room length, width and height.
- 2 Enter the number of doors and windows.
- 3 Enter the number of coats.
- 4 Check the coverage and price per gallon.
Worked example
A 15 × 12 ft room with 10 ft walls, three doors and windows and two coats. The walls are about 477 sq ft and the ceiling 180 sq ft, a total of 657 sq ft. You need about 3.8 gallons, so buy 4 gallons, costing about Rs 18,000 at Rs 4,500 a gallon.
Features
Walls and ceiling
Total paintable area.
Openings removed
Doors and windows subtracted.
Gallons to buy
Rounded up to full gallons.
When to use it
Repainting
Plan paint for a room.
New houses
Estimate paint for each room.
Choosing paint
Compare emulsion and enamel costs.
Painters' quotes
Check material estimates.
Frequently asked questions
How much area does a gallon of paint cover?
Emulsion usually covers 350 to 400 sq ft per coat on smooth walls, less on rough or new plaster.
How many coats do I need?
Usually two coats over a primer for good coverage.
Do I need primer?
Yes, on new plaster or when changing colour sharply.
What size is a gallon in Pakistan?
Paint companies sell gallon packs of about 3.6 litres.
Emulsion or enamel?
Emulsion for walls and ceilings, enamel for doors, windows and metal.
What about weather shield?
Use weather-resistant paint for outside walls.
How long should I wait between coats?
Usually 2 to 4 hours for emulsion, longer in humid weather.
Does putty need extra paint?
Walls with putty are smoother and need less paint.
What about distemper?
Distemper is cheaper but less durable and washable than emulsion.
How much does painting labour cost?
Labour is charged per square foot or per room and varies by city.
Can I paint in winter?
Yes, but avoid very cold or damp days for outside walls.
Which brands are popular in Pakistan?
Several local and international brands sell emulsion, enamel and weather-shield paints in gallon and quarter packs, at different price levels.
How do I prepare walls?
Scrape loose paint, fill cracks with putty, sand smooth and apply primer before the finishing coats.
How long does paint last?
Good-quality interior emulsion lasts five to seven years; outside paint may need redoing sooner in harsh weather.
Is enamel paint needed for doors?
Yes. Enamel is harder and easier to clean, so it suits doors, grills and windows.
Can I mix colours myself?
Tinting machines at paint shops mix exact shades, which is easier and more consistent than mixing by hand.
Results are estimates based on the official rates linked above. Confirm important figures with the issuing authority or a qualified adviser before you act on them.
Reviewed by ToolsUnlocked Team · Last updated