Project Measurements
Material Requirements
How to Use the Drywall Calculator
Follow these 4 simple steps to get accurate material estimates for your drywall project
Measure Your Room
Enter the length, width, and height of your room in feet. Be as accurate as possible for best results.
Count Openings
Input the number of doors and windows. The calculator automatically accounts for standard sizes.
Select Options
Choose whether to include ceiling, sheet size preferences, and waste factor percentage.
Get Results
View detailed material list including sheets, screws, tape, compound, and total cost estimate.
Calculation Method
Our calculator uses industry-standard formulas approved by construction professionals and building codes
Surface Area Calculation
Total wall area = (2 × length × height) + (2 × width × height)
Ceiling area = length × width (if included)
Net area = Total area - Opening areas
Material Calculations
- Drywall Sheets: (Net area ÷ Sheet area) × (1 + Waste factor)
- Screws: 1 screw per square foot + 20% extra
- Tape: Total joint length + 10% waste
- Compound: 1 gallon per 100 sq ft for 3 coats
Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to common questions about drywall material calculations and construction best practices
A 10-15% waste factor is typical for drywall projects. Use 10% for experienced installers and simple rooms, 15% for complex layouts, curved walls, or beginners. This accounts for cuts, breakage, and mistakes during installation.
4'×12' sheets minimize joints but are harder to handle and require more people to install. 4'×8' sheets are easier to work with for DIY projects. 4'×10' sheets offer a good balance. Choose based on your ceiling height, handling capability, and project complexity.
Plan for about 1 gallon of compound per 90-100 square feet for standard 3-coat application (tape coat, fill coat, and finish coat). Buy compound in 5-gallon buckets for better value and to ensure consistent texture across the project.
Use approximately 1 screw per square foot of drywall (about 32 screws per 4'×8' sheet). For tape, calculate about 0.85 linear feet per square foot of drywall surface, then add 10% for waste and repairs. Paper tape is stronger but fiber tape is easier for beginners.
Yes, our calculator uses industry-standard formulas and ratios approved by construction professionals. It accounts for standard door/window sizes, proper waste factors, and material ratios used by contractors. Results are typically within 5% of professional estimates.