Read the coverage figure
A label showing 10 m²/L means one litre covers about ten square metres for one coat under the stated conditions. Two coats on the same area roughly double the volume.
Surface condition matters
Fresh plaster, bare wood, masonry and heavily textured walls can absorb more paint. Priming and sealing may reduce uneven absorption and improve the finish.
Colour changes affect coats
Moving between very dark and very light colours can require additional coats. Test a representative patch before buying the full quantity when the change is substantial.
Practical checklist
- Use the product's own coverage figure, not a generic promise.
- Do not count primer as a finish coat.