Paint reference tables

Every default on this site comes from one of these tables, and every table names its sources and lists the calculators that use it. If a figure on your can or your data sheet is different, the calculators let you type it in.

• Paint coverage rates by product and surface

  Coverage per coat in sq ft per gallon and m² per litre for wall, ceiling and trim paint, primers, masonry coatings, stains and floor finishes, with the surface factors for texture.

• Paint can sizes and unit conversions

  Quarts, gallons, pails and litre cans, the exact factors between them, coverage conversions and what full cans weigh.

• Painting production rates

  How much wall, ceiling and trim one painter covers in an hour by brush, roller and sprayer, with prep rates and typical room times.

• Drying and recoat times by paint type

  Touch-dry, recoat and cure times for ten product types, with the factors for temperature, humidity and airflow.

• Paint sheen comparison

  Flat to gloss compared on shine, washability and flaw hiding, the MPI gloss levels, and the usual sheen for each room.

• Standard sizes for estimating

  The door, window, trim, room, cabinet, garage door and wallpaper roll sizes the calculators assume when you give a count.