Ceiling Paint Calculator
Work out the gallons of ceiling paint needed for a flat ceiling of any size.
Calculator
| Gallons to buy (whole) | 1 gal |
|---|---|
| Ceiling area | 144 ft² |
How it is calculated
12 × 12 = 144 sq ft. At 400 sq ft per gallon with 2 coats: 0.72 gallons.
About this calculator
Ceiling paint is usually a flat finish that hides imperfections and rolls on with little spatter. The calculator multiplies the ceiling area by the number of coats and divides by about 400 square feet per gallon, a typical figure for ceiling paint.
Textured ceilings absorb more paint, and stains may need a stain-blocking primer first. Paint ceilings before walls so drips land on surfaces you will repaint anyway.
Worked examples
| Project | Gallons of ceiling paint | Rough cost |
|---|---|---|
| a 12x12 ft ceiling | 0.72 gal | $25.00 – $55.00 |
| a 10x14 ft ceiling | 0.70 gal | $25.00 – $55.00 |
| a 16x20 ft ceiling | 1.60 gal | $50.00 – $110 |
| a 20x30 ft ceiling | 1.50 gal | $50.00 – $110 |
Buying notes
- Use the coverage on your can if it differs from the 400 sq ft assumed here.
- Prime water stains and smoke or grease marks before painting.
- Buy a little extra for textured ceilings.
Quick answers by size
Click a size for the exact quantity and cost.
How to measure and use this calculator
- Measure the ceiling's length and width.
- Enter the number of coats, usually one or two.
- Read the gallons needed.
- Prime stains first; they bleed through ceiling paint.
Common mistakes
- Using wall paint, which spatters more and shows roller marks.
- Ignoring textured ceilings that need extra paint.
- Painting ceilings after the walls, which risks drips on fresh paint.
Tips
- Ceiling paint is formulated to roll on with less spatter; it usually covers about 400 sq ft per gallon.
- A coat of primer helps hide stains.
- Textured ceilings absorb more paint; add 10–20%.
Frequently asked questions
How many gallons of paint for a ceiling?
One gallon covers about a 20x20 ft ceiling in a single coat.
Do ceilings need primer?
New drywall, stains and big color changes usually benefit from primer. A clean, previously painted ceiling often does not need it.
Can I use wall paint on a ceiling?
You can, but ceiling paint is made to spatter less and hide flaws. Wall paint may show roller marks overhead.