Helpful Information Helpful Information

Your actual coverage depends upon many factors, including oddly shaped surfaces and your own drywalling skills. For your own peace of mind, consider buying 10 percent more drywall and supplies than you think you'll need. Also be sure to have your plans approved by your local building department, and that you understand local codes regarding installation of drywall.

Room Perimeter

The sum of all the lengths of the room's walls. Don't deduct for doorways and windows.

Wall Height

This assumes that all walls are the same height and that the wall tops run horizontally. If this is not the case, you should manually figure each wall's area separately. For triangular and semicircular areas, multiply the largest height and width dimensions.

Ceiling Area

This assumes you have a flat ceiling. Do not depend on this calculator if your ceiling has obstructions that must be boxed before being drywalled.

Areas Not Being Drywalled

Use this box for large deductions like sliding glass doors and solid-wood paneled walls. (Check building codes carefully -- you may need to install drywall before installing paneling or other surface materials.)

Drywall Panel waste

Panel waste depends on many factors, but particularly the complexity of the areas being covered. For basic flat walls with few openings, assume a waste factor of 10 percent. For highly complex installations, allow 20% waste factor.

Sheetrock Panels

Drywall comes in a variety of sizes. Larger sheets (4x10-foot or 4x12-foot) may allow fewer joints and smoother results.

Sheetrock Nails

Assumes standard ring-shanked drywall nails. Check with your supplier if you will be using drywall screws.