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Paint Coverage by Texture Calculator

Determines coverage rate for textured surfaces like popcorn, orange peel, and knockdown which consume more paint than smooth drywall.

Use the Wall Area Calculator if unsure.

400 is standard for latex on smooth drywall.

Results

Adjusted Coverage
--
sq ft/gal
Total Gallons
--
vs. Smooth Surface
--
extra gallons needed
Est. Paint Cost
--
Texture reduction--
Wastage factor--
Smooth coverage would need--
Textured coverage needs--

Texture reduction factors are estimates. Actual coverage varies by texture depth and paint viscosity. Heavy textures benefit from thicker nap rollers or spray application.

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How to Use This Calculator

1. Enter your total area. This is the square footage you plan to paint. Use the Wall Area Calculator if you need to measure a room first.

2. Set the base coverage rate. 400 sq ft/gal is standard for latex on smooth drywall. Check your paint can for the manufacturer's stated coverage rate.

3. Select your texture type. Each texture reduces coverage differently. Popcorn ceilings absorb the most paint (30% reduction), while light texture only reduces coverage by 5%.

4. Choose application method and coats. Sprayers work best for heavy texture but waste more paint. Two coats is standard for most jobs.

Texture Coverage Reduction Factors

Adjusted_Coverage = Base_Coverage x Texture_Reduction_Factor

Gallons = (Area / Adjusted_Coverage) x Wastage_Factor x Coats

The reduction factors account for the increased surface area created by texture. A popcorn ceiling can have up to 30% more actual surface area than its measured footprint. Deeper textures trap paint in valleys, reducing effective spread rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does texture affect paint coverage?
Textured surfaces have more surface area than smooth walls, which means paint spreads thinner and covers fewer square feet per gallon. Light texture reduces coverage by about 5%, while heavy texture like popcorn ceilings can reduce coverage by 30%. Always account for texture when estimating paint quantities.
How much paint do I need for popcorn ceilings?
Popcorn ceilings reduce paint coverage by about 30% compared to smooth surfaces. If smooth drywall covers 400 sq ft per gallon, popcorn texture drops that to roughly 280 sq ft per gallon. Use a thick-nap roller (3/4 inch or more) or spray for best results on popcorn texture.
Should I use a roller or sprayer on textured walls?
Sprayers are generally more efficient for textured surfaces because they push paint into crevices better than rollers. However, sprayers waste 15-25% of paint through overspray. For most textured walls, a 3/4-inch nap roller provides good coverage with less waste. Heavy textures like popcorn are best sprayed.
What is knockdown texture?
Knockdown texture is created by spraying joint compound onto the wall and then flattening the peaks with a knockdown knife. It creates a mottled, Mediterranean-style finish that is smoother than orange peel but more textured than smooth drywall. It reduces paint coverage by about 12% compared to smooth surfaces.

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