Paint Coverage Reference Guide
How many square feet a gallon of paint covers on different surfaces — walls, primer, siding, stucco and brick.
Coverage per gallon depends on the surface. These are practical industry averages — check your paint can for the exact figure.
| Surface | Coverage per gallon | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Smooth interior wall (latex) | 350-400 sq ft | Two coats are standard. |
| Textured wall (knockdown, orange peel) | 250-300 sq ft | Texture soaks up more paint. |
| New drywall (first coat) | ~280 sq ft | High absorption — prime first. |
| Primer (general) | ~250 sq ft | Seals and evens out the surface. |
| Smooth wood / vinyl siding | 300-350 sq ft | Exterior conditions reduce yield. |
| Stucco | 200-250 sq ft | Very porous surface. |
| Brick / masonry | 150-200 sq ft | Roughest common surface. |
Averages from paint manufacturers' labels and contractor guides, reviewed 2026. Always defer to the label on your can.