Drywall Sheets, Screws & Mud Estimator

Estimate drywall sheets and materials

Enter wall and optional ceiling areas. Pick sheet size, stud spacing, and screw/mud presets. We’ll return a tidy shopping list.

Choose inputs, then tap Estimate.

Drywall estimator — quick guide & how it works

How to use this calculator

Pick Imperial or Metric and the interface updates so every label and helper line matches your unit system. Enter total wall area (required) and ceiling area if you’re boarding above. Apply a reasonable waste percentage to cover offcuts and field variation.

  • Sheet size: choose 4×8 for most projects or 4×12 to reduce seams on tall walls.
  • Stud spacing (OC): 16 in (≈400 mm) vs 24 in (≈600 mm) affects screw counts, not sheet counts.
  • Presets: select screw density for walls/ceilings and a joint compound coverage that fits your finish level.

What your estimate includes

You’ll get sheet count by size, screws/fasteners based on area and spacing, joint tape length with roll count, and joint compound volume with bucket count. We show both unit systems so you can shop locally without mental conversions.

Tips for accurate inputs

  • Measure the covered area. Subtract large openings where sheets won’t go (wide windows, doors, garage openings).
  • Higher screw density is common on ceilings and high-traffic walls; follow your local code and manufacturer guidance.
  • Round up to whole sheets, rolls, and buckets. Keep a small buffer so you don’t stall mid-job.

Rules of thumb used

4×8 = 32 ft² (2.88 m²), 4×12 = 48 ft² (3.60 m²). Base screw rates at 16 in OC: walls ≈ 0.9/ft², ceilings ≈ 1.2/ft²; scaled for 24 in OC. Tape length ≈ 0.25 ft per ft² walls and 0.20 ft per ft² ceilings. Joint compound coverage: light 1 gal/150 ft², standard 1/100, heavy 1/80. One bucket is 4.5 gal (≈17.0 L).

Drywall estimator FAQs

Can I enter metric measurements?

Yes. Switch to Metric to enter m²; outputs also show liters and meters next to US units.

Does stud spacing change sheet counts?

No—sheet count depends on total area and sheet size. Stud spacing only affects screw counts.

How accurate are screw and tape estimates?

They’re based on common spacing practices and typical seam length per area. Always follow local code and manufacturer guidance.

What about corner bead and accessories?

Not itemized here. Add bead, adhesives, sanding supplies, and primer based on your layout.