About this calculator
Paint for the outside of a house, including triangular gable ends, with an allowance for rough surfaces that soak up more paint.
How it’s calculated
Area = perimeter × eaves height + ½ × gable width × gable height for each gable − openings. Texture multiplies the area. Paint = area × coats ÷ coverage.
Worked example
With these inputs:
- House perimeter
- 160 ft
- Wall height (eaves)
- 10 ft
- Gable ends
- 2
- Gable width
- 28 ft
- Gable height (eaves to peak)
- 7 ft
- Doors and windows area
- 120 sq ft
- Surface
- Smooth (siding, stucco)
- Coats
- 2
- Coverage (sq ft per 3.78 L can)
- 300
the result is:
- Paint needed
- 42.3 L
- Wall area (net)
- 1,676 sq ft
- Texture-adjusted area
- 1,676 sq ft
Tips from the trade
- Soffits and fascias are extra. Add them as their own line in your job.
- Spraying uses 20–30% more than rolling because of overspray.
Results are estimates for planning and pricing. Check quantities against your drawings, the manufacturer’s data and the building code adopted in your province before ordering.