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Kitchen Paint Calculator

Kitchens are one of the trickiest rooms to estimate paint for because of cabinets, backsplashes, and appliances that reduce paintable wall space. Our estimates below are for a standard kitchen layout. Satin or semi-gloss finishes work best in kitchens for easy cleaning.

Pre-Calculated Paint Estimate

2

gallons

Low 1.5 gal
Likely 1.7 gal
High 2.0 gal

This range covers 301 square feet with 2 coats. The likely estimate is 1.51 gallons before the selected buffer. If you are buying whole gallons, plan on 2.

View Detailed Breakdown
Wall Area:352 sq ft
Deductions:-51 sq ft
Net Paintable Area:301 sq ft
Base Coverage Rate:400 sq ft/gal
Adjusted Coverage:400 sq ft/gal
With 2 Coats:602 sq ft needed
+ 15% Waste Buffer:+0.23 gal

Based on a 12x10 ft room with 8-ft ceilings, 1 door(s), and 2 window(s). Paint at 400 sq ft/gallon with a 15% buffer.

See the formula and assumptions

Your paint run

12x10 ft kitchen, 2 coats

Paint2 gal

Supplies for this room

Wall area 301 sq ft

Picked from the inputs above. Links go to Amazon and we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Details

Hiring a painter for this room usually runs $400 to $900, paint included. Prices vary with where you live and the condition of the walls. See how painters price a room.

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Semi-gloss or satin finish recommended for kitchens. These finishes are easier to clean and resist moisture.

Before using the preset

Measure this room without the usual shortcuts

The result above is a worked example using the dimensions and openings shown in the breakdown. Use these room-specific checks before treating it as a shopping quantity.

  1. Measure exposed wall sections instead of subtracting an assumed cabinet percentage. Kitchen layouts vary too much for a dependable shortcut.
  2. Do not include cabinet doors, cabinet boxes, or the backsplash in this wall-paint estimate.
  3. Record each wall section separately, then add the widths before entering a simplified room size.
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Scrub-Resistant Paint

Kitchen-grade paint that resists grease and cleans easily near cooking areas.

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Kitchen Primer

Adhesion primer for kitchen walls, cabinets, and high-moisture surfaces.

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Paint Supplies

Quality rollers, brushes, tape, and drop cloths for a professional finish.

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Product links go to Amazon.com

Frequently Asked Questions

How much paint do I need for a kitchen?

A standard 12x10 kitchen needs about 2 gallons for two coats on the walls, after deducting for doors and windows. If you have extensive cabinets, you may need less wall paint. Add 1-2 quarts for cabinet painting if needed.

What paint finish works best in a kitchen?

Semi-gloss or satin finishes are best for kitchens. They resist moisture and grease, and wipe clean easily. For kitchen cabinets, semi-gloss provides excellent durability and a professional look.

Should I paint kitchen cabinets with wall paint?

No. Kitchen cabinets should use a dedicated cabinet paint or enamel, which is harder and more durable. Wall paint will chip and wear quickly on cabinets. Budget about 1-2 quarts for a standard set of kitchen cabinets.

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