How Much Paint for a Small Bathroom
Painting a small bathroom might seem straightforward, but getting the right amount of paint takes a little calculation and know-how. Too little paint means extra trips to the store: too much, and you’re stuck with leftover cans gathering dust. In this guide, you’ll learn how to measure your bathroom, choose the ideal paint type, and estimate exactly how much paint you’ll need to transform your space with confidence.
Understanding Bathroom Dimensions and Paint Requirements
Measuring Your Small Bathroom Accurately
Start with a tape measure and jot down your bathroom’s dimensions. Measure the length and height of each wall separately to capture any variations. Don’t forget to note the ceiling height as well, some bathrooms have standard 8-foot ceilings, but yours might be different.
Calculating Wall Surface Area
Once you have the wall lengths and height, calculate the surface area for each wall by multiplying length by height. Sum these to get the total wall area that needs painting. For example, if you have two walls 8 feet long and two walls 5 feet long, and the ceiling height is 8 feet, your total wall area would be:
- (8 ft × 8 ft) × 2 = 128 sq ft
- (5 ft × 8 ft) × 2 = 80 sq ft
- Total = 208 sq ft
This total is what you’ll use to estimate paint needed.
Considering Doors, Windows, and Fixtures
You don’t typically need to paint doors or window panes, so subtract their surface areas. A standard interior door is about 20 sq ft, and a window can range between 12-15 sq ft. Fixtures like cabinets or tiles on part of the wall should also be considered if they won’t be painted. Subtracting these areas gives you a more accurate estimate.
Types of Paint Suitable for Bathrooms
Choosing the Right Finish for Moisture Resistance
Bathrooms are humid spaces prone to mold and mildew, so opt for paints with moisture-resistant finishes. Semi-gloss and satin finishes are excellent because they repel moisture and are easy to clean. Flat or matte paints absorb moisture, which isn’t ideal.
Recommended Paint Types and Brands
Look for paints labeled specifically for bathrooms or kitchens: they usually contain mildewcide additives. Popular reliable brands include Benjamin Moore’s Aura Bath & Spa, Sherwin-Williams Duration Home, and Behr Premium Plus Ultra. These paints offer durability, mildew resistance, and vibrant color retention that stands up to bathroom conditions.
Estimating Paint Quantity Needed
Average Paint Coverage Rates per Gallon
Most paints cover about 350 to 400 square feet per gallon per coat. Always check your chosen paint’s label for exact coverage information, it can vary.
How Many Coats Are Necessary for Bathrooms
Generally, bathrooms require two coats for even coverage and durability, especially since moisture can affect paint longevity. If you’re painting over a dark color or bare drywall, priming and possibly a third coat may be necessary.
Practical Calculation Example for a Typical Small Bathroom
Revisiting our 208 sq ft wall area example, subtracting a door (20 sq ft) and window (15 sq ft), you get:
- 208 – 35 = 173 sq ft to paint
Considering two coats at 350 sq ft coverage per gallon:
- Total square footage: 173 sq ft × 2 coats = 346 sq ft
- Paint needed: 346 ÷ 350 = approximately 1 gallon
So, buying a single gallon should cover your small bathroom comfortably, with a little left over for touch-ups.
Preparation Tips to Ensure Effective Paint Coverage
Cleaning and Priming Bathroom Walls
Before painting, clean the walls thoroughly to remove soap scum, grease, and mildew. Use a mixture of water and mild detergent or a specialized bathroom cleaner. After drying, apply a high-quality primer suited for bathrooms, especially if you’re painting over glossy surfaces or patchy walls.
Tools and Techniques for Efficient Painting
Use a good angled brush for corners and edges, and a 4-inch to 6-inch roller with a short nap (⅜ inch) to evenly cover smooth bathroom walls. Rollers help avoid brush marks and speed up the job.
Tips to Avoid Common Painting Mistakes in Bathrooms
Avoid painting when the room is steamy or humid to help the paint dry properly. Ventilate well and consider setting up a fan. Don’t skip primer, especially on moisture-prone surfaces. Finally, avoid heavy paint application: thin, even coats build up to a better, longer-lasting finish.
Conclusion
Understanding the dimensions and characteristics of your bathroom is key to estimating how much paint you need without waste. Focus on accurate measurements, choose moisture-resistant paints with the right finish, and plan for two coats to ensure durability. Proper preparation and the right tools make the process smooth and the results professional. With these insights, you’re well-equipped to refresh your small bathroom confidently and efficiently.
