Drywall Calculator
Sheets, screws and compound needed.
Enter your values
ⓘ Live results
Results
- Sheets needed
- 21
- Total area with waste
- 642 sq ft
- Screws (approx.)
- 756
- Joint tape
- 257 ft
- Joint compound
- 34 gallons
Quick answer
Divide total wall and ceiling area by the sheet size, then add 10% waste plus screws, tape and compound.
How to use the Drywall Calculator
- 1Measure room length, width and wall height.
- 2Choose the sheet size you will buy.
- 3Include the ceiling if you are boarding it.
Worked example
Using the values the calculator loads with:
Inputs
- Room length14 ft
- Room width12 ft
- Wall height8 ft
- Sheet size4×8 (32 sq ft)
- Include ceiling?Yes
Results
- Sheets needed21
- Total area with waste642 sq ft
- Screws (approx.)756
- Joint tape257 ft
- Joint compound34 gallons
Frequently asked questions
Should I subtract windows?
Only for large openings — the waste allowance usually covers small ones.
Which thickness?
1/2 inch for walls, 5/8 inch for ceilings and fire-rated assemblies.
About this calculator
- Built and reviewed by James Whitfield · How we build and test calculators
- Report an error
Results are estimates for general information. For medical, legal, structural or financial decisions, confirm with a qualified professional.