Drywall Calculator
Estimate your drywall needs accurately for any room or project size
Construction Disclaimer: This calculator provides estimates based on standard measurements and practices. Actual requirements may vary depending on your specific project details. We recommend adding 10-15% extra material to account for mistakes, damages, and complex cuts.
Tip: For the most accurate calculation, measure each wall individually and account for all doors, windows, and other openings to be subtracted from the total area.
Openings (Doors, Windows, etc.)
Project Options
We recommend 10-15% waste for standard rooms, 20-25% for complex layouts
Your Drywall Estimate
Total Wall Area:
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Openings Area:
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Net Area (after openings):
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With Waste Added:
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Drywall Sheets Needed:
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Total Cost:
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Materials Breakdown
- Drywall Sheets: --
- Joint Compound: --
- Drywall Tape: --
- Drywall Screws: --
Additional Materials to Consider
- Corner Bead: --
- Joint Compound Tools: Taping knife, mud pan, sanding tools
- Primer & Paint: Based on square footage of finished surface
Understanding Drywall Installation
Drywall Thickness Guide
- 1/4": For covering existing walls or curved surfaces
- 3/8": Repairs and budget-friendly projects
- 1/2": Standard for most residential walls
- 5/8": Fire-resistant, soundproofing, or ceiling use
Drywall Types
- Standard: General purpose walls and ceilings
- Moisture-resistant: Bathrooms and kitchens
- Fire-resistant: Garages and furnace rooms
- Soundproof: Home theaters and bedrooms
Installation Considerations
- Plan sheet layout to minimize seams
- Install ceiling drywall before walls
- Use the correct fasteners for your wall studs
- Leave 1/4" gap at floor level
- Score and snap for clean cuts; avoid sawing when possible
"Our drywall calculator has helped over 75,000 DIY enthusiasts and contractors plan their projects with confidence and minimize material waste."
Drywall Installation Tips
Measuring & Planning
Always measure each wall individually and account for all openings. Consider the orientation of the drywall sheets (horizontal installation generally creates fewer seams). Calculate materials before purchasing to avoid unnecessary trips to the store and excess waste.
Hanging Techniques
Start with the ceiling if applicable, then work your way down the walls. Stagger joints for better structural integrity. Keep sheet edges on the center of studs or joists. Use the appropriate screw length for your drywall thickness, typically 1-1/4" for 1/2" drywall.
Finishing Process
Apply multiple thin coats of joint compound rather than one thick coat. Allow proper drying time between coats (usually 24 hours). Sand between coats for a smoother finish. Prime the entire surface before painting to ensure even absorption and color consistency.
Pro Tip: For soundproofing, consider using resilient channels between the studs and drywall. Additionally, staggering electrical outlets on opposite sides of a wall and using acoustic sealant around penetrations can significantly improve sound isolation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How accurate is the drywall calculator?
Our calculator uses industry-standard formulas to estimate drywall needs, typically accurate within 5-10%. For best results, measure each wall precisely and enter all openings. The waste percentage option allows you to adjust for your specific project complexity.
Should I install drywall horizontally or vertically?
For residential walls, horizontal installation is generally preferred as it reduces the number of seams and creates stronger walls since the joints don't align with studs. Vertical installation may be better for commercial projects with metal studs or walls taller than standard drywall length.
How much waste should I account for?
For rectangular rooms with few openings, 10% waste is usually sufficient. For complex layouts with many angles, arches, or cutouts, consider 15-25%. Beginners should add more waste (20-25%) to account for mistakes, while experienced installers might need less (10-15%).
What additional materials do I need besides drywall?
Common supplementary materials include joint compound (approximately 0.053 gallons per square meter), drywall tape (about 0.1 linear foot per square foot of drywall), screws (about 30-40 per sheet), corner bead for outside corners, and finishing tools like taping knives, sanders, and a mud pan.
Can I use the same drywall for all areas of my home?
While standard drywall works for most areas, specialized drywall is recommended for specific locations: moisture-resistant (green board) for bathrooms and kitchens, fire-resistant (Type X) for garages and furnace rooms, and soundproof drywall for media rooms or bedrooms. Ceilings often benefit from 5/8" thickness to prevent sagging.