Painting Cost Guide: How to Calculate Primer, Putty, and Paint

Painting is the final touch that brings your house to life. However, estimating the amount of paint required can be tricky because walls require multiple coats of different materials.

The 3-Step Painting Process

For newly plastered walls, you cannot apply paint directly. The standard process is:

1. Primer (1 Coat): Seals the plaster and provides a base.
2. Wall Putty (2 Coats): Fills undulations and provides a smooth, glass-like finish.
3. Paint (2 Coats): The final color application (Emulsion for interiors, Weather-proof for exteriors).

How to Calculate Paint Area

The painting area is generally built-up area × 3.5. So, if your house is 1,000 sq.ft, you will have roughly 3,500 sq.ft of wall and ceiling area to paint.

Coverage Rates

• Putty Coverage: ~12-15 sq.ft per kg (for 2 coats).
• Primer Coverage: ~120-140 sq.ft per liter.
• Emulsion Paint Coverage: ~100-120 sq.ft per liter (for 2 coats).

By knowing these coverage rates, you can buy exactly what you need and prevent contractors from over-billing you for materials.

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