How Much Paint for Exterior of House? An Overview

How Much Paint for Exterior of House? An Overview

When it comes to painting your home’s exterior, the amount of paint you’ll need depends on several factors such as the size of your house, the color scheme, and the specific requirements of your local building codes. However, there are some general guidelines that can help you estimate how much paint you’ll need for an average-sized house.

Firstly, let’s consider the area you want to cover. The most common measurement used for exterior walls is square footage. To calculate this, measure each wall individually and multiply its length by its height in feet. Then add up all these measurements to get the total square footage of the walls. For example, if your house has four 20-foot-long walls with a 9-foot ceiling, you would have 720 square feet of wall space to paint.

Next, take into account any trim or moldings you may want to paint. These areas also count towards your overall square footage. If you plan to paint your porch or deck, include those spaces too.

Once you’ve determined the total square footage of your exterior walls, subtract any areas you won’t be repainting, such as windows, doors, or gutters. This will give you the remaining square footage that needs to be painted.

Finally, factor in the type of paint you choose. Different types of paints come in different coverage rates. Acrylic latex paints typically cover about 350 to 400 square feet per gallon, while oil-based paints often require two gallons to achieve full coverage. Make sure to purchase enough paint based on the number of coats you intend to apply (usually one coat covers about 250 square feet).

To ensure proper coverage, it’s best to buy slightly more than you think you’ll need. A good rule of thumb is to round up to the nearest half-gallon when purchasing paint. Additionally, check the product label for specific coverage information, as manufacturers may provide different values depending on the quality of the paint and application method.

In conclusion, determining how much paint you’ll need for your house’s exterior involves measuring the total square footage of your walls, accounting for trim and other non-paintable areas, and considering the type of paint you’re using. By following these steps, you should be able to accurately estimate the amount of paint required for your project. Remember, always consult local building codes and regulations before beginning any exterior painting job to ensure compliance and safety.

Q&A:

  1. How do I determine the square footage of my house?

    • Measure each wall individually and multiply its length by its height in feet. Add up all these measurements to get the total square footage of the walls.

  2. Should I paint all the trim and moldings?

    • Yes, all trim and moldings should be painted along with the exterior walls. This helps maintain a cohesive look throughout your home.

  3. What happens if I don’t use all the paint I bought?

    • It’s okay to have leftover paint from previous projects. Just make sure to store it properly until needed again. Some painters recommend keeping extra paint in small containers for future projects.