Paint Sheen Guide & Coverage Calculator

Find the best paint sheen for your room, calculate how many gallons you need, and compare costs across different paint quality levels.

Room Selection

Wall Area (sq ft)

Number of Coats

Gallons Needed

2 gallons

800 sq ft total coverage (2 coats)

Cost Range

$54 – $130

Mid-range: $84.00

Best for Living Room

Eggshell

Current selection is recommended

Eggshell — Properties

Coverage: 400 sq ft/gal

Durability: Low-Medium ★★☆☆☆

Washability: Fair — handles light cleaning

Hide Quality: Very Good — slight sheen hides most flaws

Touch-Up Ease: Good — minor sheen difference possible

Best Rooms: Bedrooms, Living rooms, Dining rooms

Cost Comparison Across Sheens (Budget / Mid-Range / Premium)

Purchase Option	Quantity	Est. Cost
Flat / Matte	2 gal	$50 / $80 / $120
Eggshell ★Best value	2 gal	$54 / $84 / $130
Satin ★	3 gal	$84 / $135 / $210
Semi-Gloss	3 gal	$90 / $144 / $225
High-Gloss	3 gal	$105 / $165 / $255

★ = recommended for Living Room

Eggshell is a great choice for your Living RoomEggshell provides the right balance of durability and appearance for living room use. At 2 gallons with 2 coats, your mid-range cost is $84.00.

Primer is Essential for Color Changes or New DrywallAlways use a dedicated primer when painting over dark colors, new drywall, patched areas, or switching from oil-based to latex paint. Primer ensures proper adhesion, blocks stains, and provides a uniform base — skipping it often means needing extra topcoats that cost more than the primer would have. Tinted primer (matched to your topcoat color) can reduce the number of finish coats needed.

Coverage rates and prices are estimates based on national averages. Actual coverage varies by surface texture, paint brand, application method, and color. Dark or vivid colors may require additional coats. Always check the manufacturer's specifications on the paint can.