Free drywall calculator: estimate how many plasterboard sheets, joint compound, screws, and tape you need. Enter wall area and sheet size. Ideal for partition walls and renovations.
Installing drywall means buying sheets, joint compound, screws, and tape — and each of those quantities depends on both the wall area and the sheet size you choose. This calculator handles all four materials in one estimate so you can make a single trip to the hardware store.
Enter your total wall area (all walls and ceiling, summed). The default sheet size is standard 240×120 cm — adjust if you're using smaller panels or different dimensions. The waste slider accounts for offcuts around doors, windows, and corners. The results include sheets, joint compound in kilograms, screw count, and tape length.
Standard plasterboard sheets are 240 × 120 cm (8×4 ft), covering 2.88 m². Smaller 'handy panels' (180 × 90 cm / 6×3 ft) are available for small repairs and transport in standard cars. Always check what's available at your local supplier before planning your purchase.
About 0.5 kg of joint compound per square meter of board is a reliable estimate for taping and first coat. You'll need additional compound for second and finish coats — budget about 0.8–1.0 kg/m² total for a three-coat finish. Ready-mixed compound comes in tubs (typically 5, 10, or 18 kg); powdered compound is mixed on-site.
Standard spacing is every 150–200 mm (6–8 inches) along studs. Expect 25–35 screws per 240×120 cm sheet. The calculator uses 30 screws per sheet as a safe average. Use coarse-thread screws for wood studs and fine-thread for metal studs.