Question 1

How much paint do I need for one room?

Accepted Answer

A typical 12x12 room with 8ft ceilings needs about 1.5 gallons for 2 coats. One gallon covers approximately 350-400 sq ft on smooth surfaces.

Question 2

How much stain do I need for a deck?

Accepted Answer

Coverage varies by stain type: transparent stains cover ~300 sq ft/gal, semi-transparent ~250 sq ft/gal, and solid stains ~150 sq ft/gal. Porous wood like cedar absorbs 20-30% more.

Question 3

Should I use one coat or two?

Accepted Answer

Two coats are recommended for best coverage, durability, and color uniformity. One coat may suffice for touch-ups or same-color repainting on smooth surfaces.

Question 4

What is the difference between paint types?

Accepted Answer

Flat hides imperfections but scuffs easily. Eggshell/Satin offer slight sheen with better washability. Semi-Gloss and Gloss are most durable but show surface flaws.

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