CALCULATE YOUR PAINT REQUIREMENTS FOR EXTERIOR PAINTING

Calculate the total surface area by multiplying the width by the height for each wall and add together for the total square feet (square metres). Adjust for large surfaces not to be painted.

Checklist for exterior painting:

Application:

Cloths/rags for clean-up
Proper rollers & tray
Angled brush & edger for “cutting in”
Trim brush – usually 2” wide (50mm)
Brushes – synthetic for latex or alkyd, natural bristle for alkyd paints. A 2” (50mm) brush is usually the easiest and most efficient size for painting any areas that your roller cannot reach
Pail hook – frees your hands when working on a ladder

Example:

The exterior front of the house to be painted, sided with new wood, is 50’ wide x 12’ high (15.24m x 3.65m) = 600 sq.ft. (55.74 sq. metres) Divide the sq. ft (sq. metres) by the coverage factor below.

Formula:

Total surface area = # of gallon (3.70 litre) cans
coverage per can

600 ÷ 250 (55.74 ÷ 23.225) = 2.4 or
2-1/2 gallon (3.70 litre) cans.

Here is a rough coverage guide, by surface type, for a one gallon (3.70 litre) can:

150 sq. ft. (13.935 sq.m) coverage for stucco
200 sq. ft. (18.58 sq.m) coverage for shingles
250 sq. ft. (23.225 sq.m) coverage for new wood
350 sq. ft. (32.515 sq.m) coverage for smooth siding

One (1) coat of premium paint will cover most previously painted surfaces of similar color if the surface is in good condition.

Two (2) coats may be required for major color changes, painting over damaged or old surfaces, or to maximize the time before painting again.