Paint Calculator for New York City

Calculate the exact amount of paint needed for your NYC apartment, condo, or home. Get accurate estimates tailored for New York City living spaces.

Wall Dimensions

Deductions (Doors/Windows)

Paint Coverage

Painting in New York City: What You Need to Know

New York City apartments present unique painting challenges that our calculator accounts for. From pre-war buildings with textured plaster walls to modern high-rises with drywall, NYC homes require careful paint calculation to avoid costly overruns in this expensive city.

NYC's high humidity and temperature fluctuations mean you'll want to invest in quality paint that can handle the climate. Additionally, many NYC apartments have unique architectural features like exposed brick, high ceilings, or unusual room shapes that affect paint coverage.

NYC Apartment Types and Paint Requirements

Studio Apartments (300-500 sq ft)

  • Paint needed: 1-2 gallons for walls
  • Special considerations: Open floor plans may need color coordination
  • NYC tip: Use light colors to make small spaces feel larger
  • Coverage: Account for 8-10 foot ceilings typical in studios

One-Bedroom Apartments (500-700 sq ft)

  • Paint needed: 2-3 gallons for walls
  • Special considerations: Separate bedroom allows for accent walls
  • NYC tip: Many have galley kitchens that need minimal paint
  • Coverage: Pre-war buildings may have 9-11 foot ceilings

Two-Bedroom Apartments (700-1000 sq ft)

  • Paint needed: 3-4 gallons for walls
  • Special considerations: Multiple rooms allow for varied color schemes
  • NYC tip: Consider noise reduction with textured paints
  • Coverage: Factor in closets and hallways common in layouts

Brownstone and Townhouse Floors

  • Paint needed: 4-6 gallons per floor
  • Special considerations: Historic details and moldings
  • NYC tip: Original plaster walls may need primer
  • Coverage: High ceilings (10-12 feet) require more paint

NYC-Specific Painting Considerations

Building Regulations

  • Co-op and condo board approvals may be required
  • Some buildings restrict painting hours (typically 9am-5pm)
  • Lead paint disclosure required in pre-1978 buildings
  • Ventilation requirements in older buildings

Climate Factors

  • High humidity requires mold-resistant paints
  • Temperature swings affect paint adhesion
  • Street-facing windows need UV-resistant formulas
  • Heating system type affects paint selection

Local Paint Stores

  • Benjamin Moore stores throughout all five boroughs
  • Sherwin Williams locations in Manhattan and Brooklyn
  • Local hardware stores often offer delivery service
  • Home Depot and Lowe's in Queens and Bronx

Cost Considerations

  • Premium paint justified by NYC's harsh conditions
  • Factor in delivery costs for apartment buildings
  • Buy slightly extra due to limited storage space
  • Consider professional painting costs ($3-6 per sq ft)

NYC Paint Calculator FAQ

How much paint do I need for a typical NYC apartment?

A typical 1-bedroom NYC apartment (500-700 sq ft) requires 2-3 gallons of paint for walls. Studios need 1-2 gallons, while 2-bedroom apartments need 3-4 gallons. Always buy an extra quart for touch-ups.

What are the best paint brands available in NYC?

Popular paint brands in NYC include Benjamin Moore, Sherwin Williams, and Behr. Many hardware stores in Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Queens carry these brands with local delivery options.

How much does paint cost in New York City?

Paint prices in NYC range from $30-80 per gallon depending on quality. Premium brands cost more but offer better coverage and durability in NYC's challenging climate conditions.

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