People often rent a team of professionals for each large project to construct. They will calculate the number of buckets needed and give you a price quotation before starting work.
However, many people often choose to do it themselves for small projects such as in the bedroom, bathroom, living room, cottage, etc. It not only saves costs but also helps you comfortably create your place.
The problem many people face when painting their own home is figuring out how many buckets they need to buy. Sometimes, it is even more difficult than choosing a brand, color, and color mixing.
This article will give you the paint can sizes and calculate the number of buckets needed for your space. Keep reading for more useful information.
Table of contents
The Difference Of Paint Can Sizes
There are many different sizes on the market. In which there are seven most popular types, with diameter, height, and capacity as follows:
| Size | Diameter (inches) | Height (inches) | Volume (Fl oz) |
| ½ gallon | 5 3/8 | 5 7/8 | 64 |
| 1 gallon | 6.5 | 7.5 | 128 |
| 5 gallons | 12 | 14 1/2 | 640 |
| 1 quart | 4 7/8 | 4 1/4 | 64 |
| ¼ pint | 2 | 2.5 | 4 |
| ½ pint | 1 | 2.875 | 32 |
| 1 pint | 3 15/16 | 3 7/16 | 16 |
How Do You Calculate The Number Of Buckets Needed?
You do not need to worry too much when you don’t know exactly how many cans you need to buy. The first thing you should do is measure the area of the wall to be decorated.
When you have the area, you may convert it to the number of cans, with 1 gallon for about 400 ft2. That means 2 gallons is enough to cover 800 ft2 of a wall, 3 gallons is enough for 1200 ft2, 4 gallons equals 1600ft2.
Thus, you need to take the calculated area in square feet and divide it by 400 ft2 to get the number of gallons of paint. That is, the number of cans needed.
The Difference Of Spray Paint Can Sizes
For spray one, there are four different dimensions to choose from. Each size is specified based on its net weight:
| Size of spray | Net weight (Fl oz) |
| 4 ½ ounces | 6 |
| 6 ounces | 8 |
| 12 ounces | 16 |
| 16 ounces | 20 |
The Coverage Area Of Spray Paint
Each spray can have detailed information about the coverage area on the package. However, this information is approximate because it depends on spray skill and viscosity. So, according to the information on the can, the coverage is as follows:
- 4 1/2 oz: about 7 square ft
- 6 oz: 15 – 20 square ft
- 12 oz: from 20 – 25 square ft
- 16 oz: about 30 square ft
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Bucket Material?
Although there are different sizes, the buckets are all made from tin-coated steel. This tin layer keeps the bucket from rusting and is non-toxic.
In addition, the oil-based paint is usually placed in a bucket without a lid. Meanwhile, the water-based one is stored in an epoxy-lined bucket or barrel. Epoxy can prevent rust of iron and steel. Besides, it increases adhesion, coverage, and colorfastness.
What Should You Do With The Used Cans?
If the bucket is not in use, you should cover it and note it. At the same time, children should not touch.
When the cans are dry and finished, you can throw them in the trash. However, you should remove the lids so that the waste carrier can easily sort them.
Conclusion
There are two types of paint commonly used: can and spray. The can one comes in at least seven different sizes, while the spray comes in at least four. Besides, the coverage areas are also stated on their packaging.
To calculate the number of cans used, you should divide the area by 400 ft2, in units of 1 gallon of a can. When you know the paint can sizes and the amount needed, you can easily calculate the money to spend and the number to buy.
Last Updated on April 25, 2022 by admin
