How much paint do you need for a 15×20 ceiling?

A 15×20 ft ceiling is 300 sq ft. Two coats on smooth drywall take 1.71 gallons — buy 2 gallons of flat ceiling paint.

Change the numbers

The calculator below is pre-filled for this project. Adjust any value — including feet and inches — and the results update instantly.

ftin
ftin
Add prices to estimate cost (optional)
$

Enter today’s prices from your store or supplier; we never guess prices for you.

Your results

Ceiling paint to buy2 gallons
Ceiling area300 sq ft
Exact paint (2 coats)1.71 gal
Coverage used350 sq ft per gallon
How much paint do you need for a 15×20 ceiling — diagram

Ceiling paint for 15×20 by texture

Ceiling1 coat2 coats
Smooth ceiling1 gallon2 gallons
Light texture1 gallon + 1 quart2 gallons + 1 quart
Popcorn / heavy texture1 gallon + 2 quarts3 gallons

The math

15 × 20 = 300 sq ft × 2 coats ÷ 350 = 1.71 gal

Common questions

How much paint for a 15x20 ceiling?

2 gallons for two coats on a smooth ceiling; 3 gallons for a popcorn ceiling.

Want the full method, tips and other sizes? See the ceiling paint calculator guide.

Last reviewed November 1, 2026. Results are estimates — confirm with your supplier.

Similar sizes

Related calculators