How Much Paint Do I Need for a 12x12 Room?
The Short Answer
A 12x12 room with 8-foot ceilings requires approximately 1.5 gallons of paint for two coats. One gallon covers about 350 square feet of wall space.
The Detailed Breakdown
Paint quantity calculated as total wall area minus openings, multiplied by number of coats, divided by coverage rate.
| Calculation | Value | Assumptions |
|---|---|---|
| Total Wall Area | 384 sq ft | 4 walls x 12 ft x 8 ft |
| Paintable Area | 344 sq ft | Minus ~40 sq ft for doors and windows |
| Paint Needed (2 Coats) | 1.5 gallons | 344 sq ft x 2 coats / 350 sq ft per gallon |
Key Assumptions
- Standard 8-foot ceiling height.
- One gallon covers approximately 350 sq ft per coat.
- Subtracts about 40 sq ft for one door and two windows.
Adjust for Your Situation
Buy 2 gallons of paint for your 12x12 room to comfortably cover two coats with leftover for touch-ups.
Use the Free CalculatorWhat Affects This Result
Wall Texture
Textured walls absorb 15-25% more paint than smooth walls.
Color Change
Dark-to-light or light-to-dark transitions may need 3 coats.
Paint Quality
Premium paint often covers better in fewer coats.