Drywall Estimator
Calculate exactly how many drywall sheets, screws, rolls of tape, and buckets of joint compound you need for any room or whole house — with door and window deductions, waste factor, and a full cost estimate.
Material Prices
Labor Rates
Labor rates are per sheet. Set all to 0 to show materials only.
Openings (deducted)
- Net area
- 804.1 sq ft
- Sheet size
- 4×8 ft (32 sq ft)
- Sheets needed
- 26
- Screws
- 884
- Tape rolls (500 ft)
- 13
- Joint compound
- 6 buckets
Finish Materials
- Corner bead
- 64.0 LF
- Primer
- 3 gal
- Paint (2 coats)
- 5 gal
Cost Breakdown
- Sheets
- $364.00
- Screws
- $30.94
- Tape
- $104.00
- Joint compound
- $108.00
- Corner bead
- $32.00
- Primer
- $66.00
- Paint
- $190.00
- Materials subtotal
- $894.94
- Labor
- $650.00
- Total estimate
- $1,544.94
Project Timeline
Includes materials and labour. Adjust labor rates or set to 0 for materials-only estimate.
Drywall installation tips
Sheet orientation
Hang drywall horizontally (perpendicular to studs) on walls whenever possible. This reduces the number of butt joints and creates a stronger wall.
Butt vs. tapered joints
Tapered edges (factory edges) require less compound. Butt joints (cut ends meeting) need extra feathering — add 6" each side. Plan cuts to minimize butt joints.
Screw spacing
On walls: 16" o.c. in the field, 8" o.c. on edges. On ceilings: 12" o.c. in the field. Use 1¼" type-W screws for ½" drywall into wood studs.
Joint compound coats
Apply 3 coats: tape coat, filler coat, finish coat. Let each coat dry fully (24 hrs). Sand lightly between coats with 120-grit.
Waste factor
10% waste is typical for simple rectangular rooms. Allow 15% for rooms with many corners, arches, or complex cuts. Never use less than 5%.
Ceiling vs. wall thickness
Use ⅝" type-X for ceilings to resist sag. ½" is standard for walls. Fire-rated assemblies may require specific thickness and type.
How to estimate drywall
Add each room with its length, width, and ceiling height. Toggle ceiling inclusion and add any doors or windows — their area is automatically deducted from the total. Adjust the sheet size, waste percentage, and unit prices to match your local market.
For the framing behind the drywall, see our Lumber Calculator. To estimate the concrete slab or floor, use the Concrete Calculator. Browse all Construction tools.
Frequently asked questions
Accuracy & Review
Reviewed by: Liam Santos. Liam reviews our construction calculators to confirm accurate material quantities and practical defaults for real-world projects.
Last updated: May 2026
Important disclaimer: Estimates are for material planning only. Actual quantities depend on room geometry, cut patterns, and installer technique. Labour, corner bead, primer, and accessory costs are not included. Always consult a licensed contractor before purchasing materials.
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