Measuring Square Footage: Painting Preparation

Before starting a painting project, it is important to calculate the square footage of the room to determine the amount of paint required and to avoid wasting money on unnecessary supplies. The first step is to measure the length and width of each wall in feet, including windows and doors, and multiply these numbers together to get the square footage of each wall. These numbers should then be added together to get the total square footage of the room. This process can be repeated for floors and ceilings, and any additional surfaces such as cabinets or cupboards. Once the total square footage is calculated, this can be used to estimate the amount of paint needed, taking into account the number of coats required and the coverage of the specific paint being used.

Measure each wall from floor to ceiling

Measuring the room correctly is essential to ensure you purchase enough paint to cover the entire area without wasting money on unnecessary supplies. To measure each wall from floor to ceiling, follow these steps:

• First, measure the width of the wall (from corner to corner) in feet. Record that number.
• Next, measure the length of the wall (from floor to ceiling) in feet. Record that number.
• If your wall has windows, doors, or other irremovable surfaces that won't be painted, measure both the width and height of each opening.
• Multiply the length and width of the wall to calculate its square footage.
• Subtract the square footage of any openings from the total square footage of the wall.
• Repeat these steps for every wall you wish to paint.

It is important to note that accurately measuring and calculating paint square footage is crucial for achieving the desired results. Take your time, measure carefully, and consider measuring each surface twice to ensure accuracy.

Additionally, when dealing with complex areas, such as basements, you can divide the floor or room into multiple rectangular or triangular sections and then add all the numbers together to get the total square footage.

Account for windows, doors and other features

When measuring a room for painting, it's important to account for windows, doors, and other features that will affect the total surface area to be painted. Here are the steps you can follow to ensure accurate measurements and estimates:

Measure Doors and Windows

Start by measuring the width and height of each door and window in the room. If all the doors and windows are the same size, you only need to measure once and then multiply by the total number of structures. For example, if you have three windows with the same dimensions and a total surface area of 17 square feet, you would multiply that by 3, giving you a total of 51 square feet.

Calculate Total Surface Area of Doors and Windows

After measuring each door and window, calculate their total surface area by multiplying the width and height of each structure. For instance, a standard door accounts for about 20 square feet, and an average window accounts for approximately 15 square feet.

Subtract Area of Doors and Windows

Once you have the total surface area of the doors and windows, subtract this value from the total wall area you need to paint. This calculation will give you the exact amount of surface area that requires painting.

Account for Other Features

In addition to doors and windows, there may be other features in the room that need to be considered, such as moulding. Include these elements to get the most precise estimate. If you have moulding, measure its total surface area and subtract it from the total wall area, similar to the process for doors and windows.

Consider Number of Coats

Remember that the amount of paint you need will also depend on the number of coats you plan to apply. Most walls are painted twice to ensure a polished and long-lasting finish. However, some ultra-deep bases might require three to four coats. The paint calculator typically defaults to two coats, but you can adjust this based on the specific paint and your desired outcome.

Calculate the total square footage

Calculating the total square footage of a room is essential to ensure you purchase the right amount of paint for your project. This process will help you determine the supplies and resources needed for an efficient job and a beautiful finish. It is also a straightforward process, requiring only a measuring tool and a calculator.

Start by measuring each wall from floor to ceiling, including windows and doors. Be sure to measure both the width and height of each opening. Record these measurements, then add up all the measurements for each wall separately. Next, multiply the length by the width of each wall to calculate its individual square footage (length x width = sq ft). Add together the square footage of each wall to get the total square footage of the room.

If any of your walls have windows, doors, or other irremovable surfaces that won't be painted, subtract their square footage from the wall they're on. You can do this by multiplying the width and height of the irremovable feature and deducting this smaller number from the wall's square footage.

If you are painting more than one room with the same colour, add up the total square footage of all the rooms. This will help you determine the total amount of paint needed for your project.

Additionally, when measuring a complex area, such as a basement, try dividing the floor or ceiling into multiple sections, then add all the numbers together to get the total square footage.

Choose the right paint type

Choosing the right paint type involves considering factors such as the room's lighting, the desired level of sheen or gloss, and the functionality of the space. Here are some guidelines to help you select the most suitable paint type for your room:

Lighting Conditions

The lighting in a room can significantly influence your paint choice. Warmer whites or light colours are ideal for rooms with limited natural light, as they can brighten up the space. Rooms with abundant natural light offer more flexibility, allowing you to experiment with both light and dark shades.

Sheen and Gloss Levels

Paint finishes vary from flat or matte to high-gloss, each offering distinct advantages. Flat or matte paint is ideal for living rooms and bedrooms, creating a subtle sheen and minimising the visibility of wall imperfections. It is, however, more challenging to clean and remove scuffs from. Semi-gloss, satin, or eggshell finishes provide a soft sheen and are generally more forgiving when cleaning. Gloss paints are durable and easy to clean, making them suitable for areas prone to wear and tear, such as trim work. Lacquer, a high-gloss sheen, is a popular choice for design enthusiasts, creating a dramatic monochromatic effect.

Room Functionality

Consider the purpose and desired mood of the room when selecting a paint type. For instance, a vibrant accent wall can energise a space, while a deeper hue adds sophistication and depth. White trim against coloured walls is a classic choice that adds a focal point to a room, especially in spaces lacking architectural interest.

Paint Durability

The durability of paint is an important consideration, especially in high-traffic areas or spaces exposed to moisture. Glossier paints, such as semi-gloss and high-gloss, are known for their durability and ease of cleaning. Matte and flat paints, while offering excellent coverage for imperfections, may be less durable and more challenging to maintain in frequently used areas.

Colour Families and Undertones

When choosing a paint colour, it's essential to consider the adjacent rooms and select colours that harmonise well. Making subtle changes within the same colour family can create a cohesive look. Additionally, understanding the different types of white and their undertones can elevate your colour scheme. Pure, "clean" whites are tint-free, while cool whites contain green, blue, or grey undertones, and warm whites have yellow, rust, pink, or brown undertones.

Remember, the right paint type can enhance the architectural features of a room, define areas, and even affect your mood. By considering these guidelines, you can choose a paint type that transforms your space and aligns with your desired functionality and aesthetic.

Prepare the surface

Preparing the surface is a crucial step in achieving good-looking and long-lasting paint results. Here are the steps you should take to prepare the surface of a room before painting:

Clean the Walls

Start by thoroughly cleaning the walls to remove any dust, grime, cobwebs, or oil and grease buildup. You can use a duster on a pole extension or cover the bristles of a broom with an old pillowcase to dust off the walls. For kitchen walls or walls with exposure to oil or grime, use a solution of water and grease-cutting detergent, followed by clean water to remove any residual cleaning agents. Finish by wiping the walls with a damp cloth. Address any mildew on the walls before painting, as paint will not hide it and will make subsequent cleaning more difficult.

Remove Old Paint and Wallpaper

Scrape away cracked, peeling, or flaking paint using a metal putty knife or sandpaper. Be cautious when removing old paint, as it may contain lead. Exposure to lead dust or fumes can be harmful, especially for children and pregnant women. If your home was painted before the late 1970s, there is a chance of lead-based paint. In such cases, consider contacting a professional for safe removal. If the walls have been previously painted with a gloss or high-gloss paint, it is necessary to sand the surface to dull the sheen and ensure the new paint adheres properly.

For wallpaper, peelable options are easy to remove. For wallpaper hung with paste, use a stripping knife carefully to avoid damaging the plaster. Soak any remaining scraps of wallpaper with a sponge and hot water to soften before stripping. Finish by sanding lightly with sandpaper.

Fill Holes and Cracks

Inspect the walls for any holes, cracks, or imperfections and fill them with patching paste, spackling, or a patching compound. Use a filling knife to push the filler carefully into the gaps, ensuring a smooth and even surface. Once the filler is dry, sand it down to create a smooth finish.

Prime the Walls

Priming the walls is essential, especially if the walls are porous or have surface stains. It helps to disguise imperfections, creates a smooth surface for the paint to adhere to, and ensures a uniform finish. You can use a primer or a ""mist coat" by diluting the paint with water (usually around 10%-to30%). For exterior surfaces, ensure that the walls are dry before priming and painting, and avoid painting immediately after rain or in cold temperatures unless using products designed for such conditions.

Tape Off the Room

Taping off the room is tedious but necessary for a polished look. Apply painter's tape along the baseboards, trim areas at the floor and ceiling, frames around windows and doors, and electrical boxes, door handles, and other fixtures. Use foot-long strips of tape, overlapping each strip by a few inches, to protect the surfaces and prevent paint bleed.

Frequently asked questions