Home Improvement Calculators

This paint coverage calculator simplifies determining how much paint you’ll need for your project. To start, measure the length, height, and width of each wall to be painted. Next, account for the number of windows and doors in the room. 

Select the number of coats you plan to apply. Two coats are ideal for achieving a smooth finish. However, if you’re changing the wall color, three coats are recommended for the best results.

Lastly, decide on the type of paint you’ll use for your project. 

Standard latex is a versatile option that works well for most walls and ceilings, while premium paint offers better durability and richer coverage. It is ideal for high-traffic areas such as the kitchen. If you’re looking to add texture or a decorative touch, textured paint can create unique finishes like stucco or sand effects.

Please note that calculations account for standard deductions for windows and doors. It’s recommended to have extra paint on hand to cover touch-ups and any necessary repairs.

This wallpaper calculator helps you determine how much wallpaper you'll need for your project. To begin, enter the dimensions of the area you want to cover. Then, input the roll width and length, as these will impact the amount of wallpaper needed. 

We've set the default roll width to 20.5 inches and the length to 33 feet, but you can adjust these values based on the wallpaper you're using. If you're working with a wallpaper pattern, the pattern’s repetition will impact the amount needed. 

Patterns often need to be aligned during installation, so the size of the repeat should be factored into the total coverage. For example, larger or more complex patterns might lead to more wallpaper waste.

The waste factor is also accounted for to make sure you have enough material. The standard is 10%, but for complex patterns, 15% is recommended, and for large patterns, 20% is better. This extra material covers pattern matching and mistakes.

This lighting calculator helps determine the right amount of light for each room based on its function. Different rooms need different levels of brightness. For instance, a living room typically requires 30-40 lumens per square foot, while a busier area like the kitchen may need 40-50 lumens.

The calculator also considers the type of lighting you need. For task lighting, a bright light is essential, whereas general lighting calls for a medium brightness, and ambient lighting works best with dimmer lights.

When choosing light bulbs, keep in mind that the higher the lumen rating, the brighter the light output. For example, an LED bulb with 800 lumens is equivalent to a 60W incandescent bulb. 

Additionally, the height of your ceiling plays a role in your lighting needs. For ceilings ranging from 10-12 feet, a higher lumen output is necessary, while for very high ceilings (over 12 feet), even more lumens may be required.

Do note that this calculation is based on recommended lighting levels for different room types. For optimal lighting, consider layering different types of lighting such as task, ambient, and accent lighting.

Begin by taking the dimensions of the area to be covered. We suggest measuring the length and width, rounding them up to the nearest inch. Always account for the widest point of the room, even if the walls aren’t perfectly straight.

Next, select your flooring material type. Different materials come with varying waste factors: hardwood typically requires 10% extra material, laminate has an 8% waste factor, and tile requires around 12% due to cuts and pattern matching. 

We’ve also factored in the installation pattern. For example, a straight lay pattern doesn't require extra material, but a diagonal pattern needs 10% more. More intricate patterns, such as herringbone need 15% more, while custom layouts may require as much as 20% extra.

You should also factor in additional material for future repairs, with a standard waste adjustment of 10%. Note that this calculation includes pattern and waste adjustments. It's also advisable to order extra material for future repairs. 

This outlet calculator helps determine the number of electrical outlets required for your space, ensuring functionality and compliance with standard guidelines. To start, input the total wall length by summing up the lengths of all the walls in the room. 

For kitchens, you also have to input the total counter length in feet, as countertops require more frequent outlet placement.

Different room types have unique outlet requirements. For example, the living room typically needs one outlet per 12 feet of wall, while kitchens require one outlet per 4 feet of countertop. Bathrooms require special Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) outlets, designed to protect against electric shock in wet areas.

Next, provide details about usage, such as the number of major appliances and regular electronics that will be plugged in. You’ll also need to select the circuit load—15-amp circuits are standard for most areas, while 20-amp circuits are recommended for spaces with heavier electrical loads, like kitchens or home workshops.

Please note that all calculations are based on the requirements outlined in the National Electrical Code (NEC). GFCI outlets, which protect against electric shocks, are mandatory in wet areas like bathrooms and kitchens. 

When planning, it’s also important to consider future needs by accounting for additional outlets to support increased appliance or device usage over time.