Dulux Paint Calculator
Dulux publishes its own coverage figures, different from generic paint estimates: about 16 square meters per litre for Dulux wall and ceiling emulsion, and about 14 square meters per litre for Dulux primer/undercoat. Multiply wall perimeter by height for area, then divide by the Dulux-specific coverage rate for your product.
Quick Answer
Dulux publishes its own coverage figures, different from generic paint estimates: about 16 square meters per litre for Dulux wall and ceiling emulsion, and about 14 square meters per litre for Dulux primer/undercoat. Multiply wall perimeter by height for area, then divide by the Dulux-specific coverage rate for your product.
Dulux Paint Calculator
Enter your values below for an instant result, then see the formula, worked example, and common mistakes.
Enter your values and click calculate.
How to Use This Calculator
Dulux publishes its coverage figures in square metres per litre, so this calculator uses metric measurements to match Dulux own product data directly.
Wall and ceiling emulsion, primer/undercoat, and trim/satinwood paints have different published coverage rates — select the one matching your product.
Two coats is standard for most Dulux emulsion colors on previously painted or primed walls; check your specific product’s instructions, as some deep or accent colors recommend three coats.
Dulux paint is commonly sold in 2.5L, 5L, and 10L tins — round your litres-needed figure up to the nearest available tin size combination.
Formula
Litres needed = (Perimeter x Height) x Number of Coats / Dulux Coverage Rate (m2 per litre).
Reference Table: Dulux Published Coverage Rates
| Dulux product | Published coverage |
|---|---|
| Wall, trim, and ceiling emulsion | ~16 m2 per litre |
| Primer/undercoat | ~14 m2 per litre |
| Trim/satinwood finishes | ~12 m2 per litre (varies by finish and surface) |
Figures reflect Dulux own published general guidance (UK market); exact coverage varies by specific product range, sheen level, colour, and surface, and the precise figure for your product is printed on the tin.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using a generic (non-Dulux) coverage figure like 10 m2/litre or a US-style sq ft/gallon number instead of Dulux own published rate for the specific product being used.
- Forgetting that primer and undercoat have lower coverage than topcoat emulsion, so a full repaint (primer plus 2 topcoats) needs more total litres than a simple 2-coat refresh over existing paint.
- Not checking the specific product range’s coverage on the tin — Dulux coverage guidance varies by specific range (e.g. matte vs silk finishes, trade vs retail lines).
- Buying odd litre amounts instead of the nearest standard Dulux tin size (2.5L, 5L, 10L), which is usually more cost-effective per litre.
When the Estimate May Be Wrong
Dulux published coverage rates are general guidance and can vary by specific product range, wall texture, porosity, and colour depth — deep or accent colours sometimes need an extra coat regardless of the stated coverage rate. Always check the coverage figure printed on your specific Dulux tin, as it is the most accurate figure for that exact product.
FAQs
How many square meters does a litre of Dulux paint cover?
Dulux publishes about 16 square meters per litre for its wall and ceiling emulsion, and about 14 square meters per litre for primer/undercoat, though this varies by specific product range.
How many coats of Dulux paint do I need?
Two coats is standard for most Dulux emulsion colors over previously painted or primed walls; deep or accent colors may need a third coat.
What size Dulux paint tins are available?
Dulux paint is commonly sold in 2.5L, 5L, and 10L tins — round your calculated litres up to the nearest available tin size combination.
Sources and Methodology
Coverage figures (approximately 16 m2/litre for wall/ceiling emulsion, 14 m2/litre for primer/undercoat) reflect Dulux published general guidance as of 2026 (Dulux UK and Dulux Australia product and expert-help pages). Exact coverage is printed on each specific product tin and should be confirmed there before final purchase.
