Enter the area of the deck and the number of coats into the calculator to determine the amount of paint needed.

Deck Paint Formula

The following formula is used to calculate the amount of paint needed to cover a deck.

PA = (A * C) / Y

Variables:

  • PA is the amount of paint needed (gallons)
  • A is the area of the deck (square feet)
  • C is the number of coats of paint
  • Y is the yield of the paint (square feet per gallon)

To calculate the amount of paint needed, multiply the area of the deck by the number of coats of paint. Then divide the result by the yield of the paint (how many square feet one gallon can cover).

What is a Deck Paint?

Deck paint is a specially formulated paint used to protect and enhance the aesthetic appeal of decks, porches, and other outdoor wooden structures. It is designed to withstand the elements, resist fading, chipping, and peeling, and provide a non-slip surface for safety. Deck paint can be available in a variety of colors and finishes, allowing homeowners to customize the look of their outdoor spaces.

How to Calculate Deck Paint?

The following steps outline how to calculate the amount of paint needed for a deck using the formula PA = (A * C) / Y.


  1. First, determine the area of the deck (A) in square feet.
  2. Next, determine the number of coats of paint (C).
  3. Next, determine the yield of the paint (Y) in square feet per gallon.
  4. Next, gather the formula from above = PA = (A * C) / Y.
  5. Finally, calculate the amount of paint needed (PA) in gallons.
  6. After inserting the variables and calculating the result, check your answer with the calculator above.

Example Problem : 

Use the following variables as an example problem to test your knowledge.

area of the deck (A) = 500 square feet

number of coats of paint (C) = 2

yield of the paint (Y) = 200 square feet per gallon