What should you consider before calculating?
Before we jump into the calculations, there are a few factors you need to take into account:
- Type of paint: Different types of paint have varying levels of coverage. For instance, high-quality paints usually require fewer coats compared to budget-friendly options.
- Surface condition: The condition of the surface you’re painting can affect the absorption of paint. Rough or porous surfaces might require additional coats.
- Color change: If you’re changing the color of your walls, keep in mind that darker hues might need more coats to fully cover the existing color.
How to calculate the amount of paint needed?
Calculating the ideal amount of paint for your 100 sqm space involves a simple formula. Here’s how to do it:
- Measure the area: Begin by measuring the dimensions of the walls. Calculate the total square footage by multiplying the width by the height for each wall, and then summing up these measurements.
- Deduct windows and doors: Subtract the area of any windows or doors from the total square footage. Measure the width and height of each opening and multiply these dimensions together to find the area. Deduct this figure from the total square footage obtained earlier.
- Consider paint coverage: Check the paint can for the estimated coverage area. Typically, a liter of paint covers about 10-12 sqm, but this may vary depending on the brand and type of paint.
- Calculate the amount of paint needed: Divide the adjusted square footage by the estimated coverage of the paint. Round the result up to the nearest whole number.
Example Calculation:
Let’s say you have a room with four walls, each measuring 4 meters wide and 3 meters high. The total square footage of all the walls would be:
(4m x 3m) + (4m x 3m) + (4m x 3m) + (4m x 3m) = 48 sqm
Next, suppose you have a window that measures 1 meter in width and 2 meters in height. The area of this window would be:
1m x 2m = 2 sqm
To adjust the total square footage, subtract the window area:
48 sqm – 2 sqm = 46 sqm
If your chosen paint can states that it covers approximately 10 sqm per liter, divide the adjusted square footage by 10 to find the amount needed:
46 sqm / 10 sqm = 4.6 liters of paint
Rounding up to the nearest whole number, you’ll need approximately 5 liters of paint for your 100 sqm space.
Calculating the perfect amount of paint for your project is crucial to avoid either overstocking or running out of paint halfway through. By considering the type of paint, surface condition, and color change, you can accurately measure and calculate the necessary quantity of paint needed for a 100 sqm space. Remember, it’s always wise to buy a bit extra to account for touch-ups in the future. Happy painting!