Drywall Calculator
Estimate drywall sheets, screws, joint compound, and tape for any room. Enter dimensions and openings to get a fast materials list.
Room dimensions
4x8 or 4x12 are standard.
Drywall needed
20 sheets
Covers 561 sqft (walls 381 sqft + ceiling 180 sqft), includes 10% waste.
Screws
640
Joint compound
33.9 lb
Tape
600 ft
Frequently Asked Questions about the Drywall Calculator
What sheet size should I use, 4x8 or 4x12?
4x8 sheets (32 sqft) are easier to handle solo and fit through tight doorways. 4x12 sheets (48 sqft) reduce seams on long walls and speed up taping, but they need two people and clear access.
Why does the calculator add 10% waste?
Cuts around outlets, windows, corners, and end pieces always create offcuts you cannot reuse. 10% is the standard contractor allowance for a rectangular room. Add more for cathedral ceilings or many angles.
How many screws per sheet of drywall?
About 32 screws for a 4x8 sheet on 16-inch stud spacing, using 1-1/4 inch coarse-thread screws spaced 12 inches on the field and 8 inches on the edges. Ceilings need closer spacing.
How much joint compound and tape do I need?
Plan on roughly 1.7 lb of pre-mixed compound and 30 linear feet of paper tape per 4x8 sheet for three taping coats. Buy compound in 4.5-gallon buckets if you have more than 10 sheets.
Do I need different drywall for bathrooms or ceilings?
Yes. Use moisture-resistant (green board) or cement board for bathrooms and 5/8 inch sheets for ceilings to resist sag. This calculator estimates standard 1/2 inch gypsum quantities.