How to Calculate Exterior Square Footage for Painting: A Comprehensive Guide
Painting the exterior of your home is a great way to give it a fresh and updated look. However, before you start purchasing paint and brushes, it is essential to determine the square footage of the area you need to cover. Calculating the exterior square footage for painting ensures that you buy the right amount of paint and avoid unnecessary expenses. In this article, we will guide you through the process of calculating exterior square footage, along with some interesting facts about painting.
Calculating Exterior Square Footage for Painting:
To calculate the exterior square footage of your house, follow these simple steps:
1. Measure the height of each wall: Use a measuring tape to determine the height of each wall individually. Measure from the foundation to the eaves or roofline, excluding any trim or overhangs.
2. Measure the length of each wall: Measure the length of each wall using the measuring tape. Exclude any areas that will not be painted, such as doors, windows, or chimney.
3. Multiply the height the length: Multiply the height of each wall its length to obtain the square footage of each wall. For example, if a wall is 10 feet high and 20 feet long, its square footage would be 200 square feet.
4. Add up the square footage of all walls: Once you have calculated the square footage for each wall, add them up to get the total exterior square footage of your house.
5 Interesting Facts about Painting:
1. Ancient Egyptians were the first to use paint as a form of decoration. They created pigments using natural materials like ground minerals and mixed them with a binder.
2. The world’s most expensive painting is Leonardo da Vinci’s “Salvator Mundi.” It was sold in 2017 for a staggering $450.3 million.
3. The term “paint the town red” originates from the practice of wealthy aristocrats celebrating literally painting the town red during wild parties in the 1800s.
4. The color blue is often associated with calmness and serenity. Researchers have found that painting a room blue can help reduce blood pressure and promote relaxation.
5. Paint can also serve as a protective layer. In addition to enhancing aesthetics, exterior paint acts as a barrier against weather elements, preventing damage from moisture, sunlight, and insects.
Common Questions about Exterior Square Footage for Painting:
1. Do I need to include windows and doors in the square footage calculation?
No, you should exclude windows and doors from the square footage calculation as they do not require painting.
2. Should I measure the height and length of each wall in feet or inches?
It is recommended to measure the height and length of each wall in feet for accurate square footage calculation.
3. How do I calculate the square footage of a wall with multiple levels?
Measure each level individually and calculate their square footage separately. Then add up the square footage of all levels.
4. What if my house has irregularly shaped walls?
Break down irregularly shaped walls into smaller, more manageable shapes, such as rectangles or triangles. Calculate the square footage of each smaller shape and add them up.
5. Should I include the garage in the total square footage calculation?
Yes, include the garage in the total square footage calculation if you plan to paint it as well.
6. How much paint do I need per square foot?
On average, one gallon of paint covers approximately 350-400 square feet. However, this may vary depending on the type of paint and surface texture.
7. What if my house has multiple stories?
Calculate the square footage of each story separately, including the exterior walls of the ground floor and any additional stories.
8. Should I deduct the area covered trim or overhangs?
Yes, exclude areas covered trim or overhangs from the square footage calculation.
9. How can I calculate the square footage for a gabled roof?
Measure the length and height of each sloping side of the gable individually. Multiply them together to obtain the square footage for each side, and then add them up.
10. Is it important to account for potential future expansions or additions?
If you plan to expand or add onto your house in the near future, it’s prudent to consider these areas when calculating the square footage for painting.
11. What if my walls are textured?
Textured walls may require additional paint to achieve complete coverage. It’s advisable to consult with a paint professional for an accurate estimate.
12. How can I calculate the square footage if my house has different materials on different sides?
Calculate the square footage for each side separately, based on the material used, and then add up the totals.
13. How can I ensure I purchase enough paint for touch-ups in the future?
It’s recommended to store a small amount (e.g., a pint) of leftover paint in a tightly sealed container for future touch-ups.
By following these guidelines, you can accurately calculate the exterior square footage of your house for painting. Remember to consider any additional areas you may want to paint, such as garages or sheds. Happy painting!