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Primer Calculator

Work out how much primer you need — gallons by primer type and coats for walls, ceilings, or bare surfaces — with U.S. pricing, a primer-type comparison, and a downloadable PDF shopping list.

The right primer depends on the surface — porous block and bare wood drink far more than sealed drywall. Estimates use 2024-2025 U.S. prices. For planning purposes only.

Area & Primer
1 Area to Prime
ft
×
ft
Add up wall lengths for perimeter. Leave at 0 to prime a ceiling or slab only.
sq ft
sq ft
win
doors
Counted at ~15 sq ft per window, ~20 sq ft per door
2 Primer Type & Coats
1 coat is standard; use 2 for heavy stains, bare wood, or porous block
sq ft/gal
Auto-set by primer type; check the can (porous surfaces cover less)
3 Cost
$/ gallon
U.S. primer ranges from ~$18 (PVA) to ~$45 (shellac / bonding) per gallon
$/ sq ft
Set 0 for DIY / materials only
Primer Estimate
Primer To Buy
—
Enter your area to begin
Primer Gallons —
Area to Prime —
Coverage / Gal —
Full Cost Breakdown
Area to prime —
Primer —
TOTAL ESTIMATE—
Total cost / sq ft —
Primer Needed (exact) —
Priming labor —
Cost Breakdown Chart
Estimated cost by category ($)
Primer Type Comparison — Your Area
Primer TypeCoverageGallonsEst. Cost

For your 700 sq ft at 1 coat, using each primer's typical coverage & U.S. price.