Drywall Calculator 🧱

How to Use the Drywall Calculator

Choose your measurement system (imperial or metric) and select your preferred drywall sheet size. Enter the total wall area and ceiling area (if applicable). The calculator automatically adds your chosen waste allowance percentage and calculates the total sheets needed, plus estimates for joint compound, tape, and screws required for installation.

Calculating Your Area

To find wall area: Measure the perimeter of the room (add all wall lengths) and multiply by the ceiling height. Subtract door and window openings. For ceiling area: Multiply room length by width. For example, a 12 ft × 10 ft room with 8 ft ceilings has wall area = (12+10+12+10) × 8 = 352 ft² and ceiling area = 12 × 10 = 120 ft².

Professional Installation Tips

• Always hang drywall perpendicular to studs/joists for maximum strength and fewer seams.
• Use longer sheets (4×12) to span entire walls when possible, reducing seams and taping work.
• For ceilings, use 5/8" thick drywall to prevent sagging; 1/2" is standard for walls.
• Stagger seams between rows (like bricks) to create stronger walls and ceilings.
• Keep screws 3/8"-1/2" from edges, and space them every 12" on walls, 8-12" on ceilings.

Material Reference Guide