Ceiling Paint Calculator

Estimate paint needs for your room

Total Area 0 Sq. Feet

Paint Needed 0 Gallons

*Based on estimates. Always buy slightly more for touch-ups.

Painting a ceiling is literally a pain in the neck—don't make it harder by running out of paint halfway through!

We designed this ceiling paint calculator to help you buy exactly the right amount of paint for your overhead project.

Whether you are refreshing a dingy white ceiling or adding a bold pop of color to a fifth wall, accurate planning is the first step to a professional finish.

How to Use This Ceiling Paint Calculator

Measure Your Room: Enter the Length and Width of your room in feet. (Round up to the nearest half-foot for safety).
Select Your Texture: This is critical!
- Smooth Drywall: Choose this for standard, previously painted ceilings.
- Textured / Popcorn: These rough surfaces absorb significantly more paint.
- New/Unprimed: Fresh drywall soaks up paint like a sponge; select this to ensure you have enough coverage.
Slide for Coats: Use the slider to select how many coats you plan to apply. We recommend 2 coats for most color changes or coverage over stains.
Calculate: Click the button to see your estimated square footage and the specific gallon amount required.

Important Notes & Limitations

Estimates Only: This tool uses industry-standard coverage rates (e.g., ~350 sq. ft. per gallon for smooth surfaces). However, specific paint brands vary in thickness and spreadability.
The "Spill" Factor: This calculator assumes perfect application. It does not account for paint stuck in the roller nap, spills, or waste in the tray.
Touch-ups: We recommend buying 10-15% more than the calculated amount to ensure you have leftover paint for future touch-ups or accidents.

💡 Pro Decor Tip: Always paint your ceiling before your walls. Gravity is real—drips and roller splatter will fall downward. By doing the ceiling first, you don't have to worry about protecting your freshly painted walls. Also, stick to Flat or Matte finishes for ceilings; they hide imperfections and roller marks much better than eggshell or satin sheens.

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