PaintCare’s Buy Right guide says most coverage rates are between 300 and 400 square feet per gallon, and suggests 350 for a rough estimate. Your can’s label is the best source.
Coverage by container (one coat, 350 sq ft per gallon)
| Can | Gallons | Covers one coat | Covers two coats |
|---|---|---|---|
| Quart | 0.25 | ≈ 88 sq ft | ≈ 44 sq ft |
| Gallon | 1 | 350 sq ft | 175 sq ft |
| 5-gallon bucket | 5 | 1,750 sq ft | 875 sq ft |
Coverage by surface (starting points)
| Surface | Sq ft per gallon |
|---|---|
| Smooth, previously painted walls | 400 |
| Standard walls | 350 |
| New drywall | 300 |
| Textured or rough walls | 250 |
| Smooth siding | 350 |
| Wood clapboard | 300 |
| Rough cedar | 250 |
| Stucco or brick | 200 |
These are the presets the calculators use. They are planning starting points, not guarantees: PaintCare notes unprimed, porous surfaces absorb more paint and rough textures can need up to 50 percent more.
Why your number may differ
- Surface: porous or rough surfaces soak up paint.
- Sheen: flat covers more than gloss.
- Color change: dark to light takes extra coats.
- Application: thick rolling covers less area.
Estimates only. Check your paint can’s label for coverage. Prices are typical 2026 US figures; use your store’s.