How this calculator works
Litres = area × coats ÷ coverage × (1 + waste/100).
Formula
litres=(area×coats/coverage)×(1+w/100)Paint required in litres from paintable area, coats, stated coverage and waste allowance.
Worked example
Verified example is a verified test case used by the calculation engine.
Assumptions and limitations
- Area is entered in square metres.
- Coverage is entered in square metres per litre and should come from the selected paint product.
- The estimate does not model surface porosity, application losses or manufacturer-specific instructions beyond the entered coverage.
Methodology & sources
This calculator uses deterministic, versioned calculation logic. The formula and verified examples above are part of the calculation definition used by CalcuMint.
- Sherwin-Williams Painting FAQs — Paint quantity is estimated by dividing paintable area by product coverage; actual requirements vary with surface and application.
Frequently asked questions
Where do I get the coverage value?
Use the coverage stated for the paint product you plan to use.
Does the result include multiple coats?
Yes. The number of coats is an explicit input.