How to calculate drywall sheets
Calculate total wall area from the room perimeter and wall height, add the selected waste allowance, then divide by the area of one drywall sheet.
Sheets = Adjusted wall area ÷ Area per drywall sheet
Drywall calculation example
A 12-foot by 10-foot room with 8-foot walls has 352 square feet of gross wall area. A 4 × 8 sheet covers 32 square feet before allowing for waste.
Openings and ceilings
This version estimates full wall area and does not deduct doors or windows. It also does not include the ceiling.
Frequently asked questions
How many square feet does a 4 × 8 drywall sheet cover?
32 square feet.
Should I buy extra drywall?
A waste allowance can help cover cuts, breakage and layout variation.
Does this calculator include the ceiling?
No. This calculator estimates room walls only.