Paint coverage rate is a measurement of how much surface area a paint should cover, usually in square metres per litre.
To get a true understanding of how much paint you’ll need for your project, consider coverage rate alongside opacity.
- Coverage rate = how far the paint will spread.
- Opacity = how well it hides the colour underneath.
A paint with a good opacity rating will need fewer coats to cover the substrate you’re applying it to.
Coverage Rate Vs Real Paint Coverage
Real coverage rates will depend on surface texture, porosity, colour change and the application method you use.
Lime plaster, bare plaster, masonry and older porous walls can absorb more paint, especially on the first coat.
See our Paint Opacity Class guide for more information on understanding opacity & paint coverage.
Related Certification
EU Ecolabel - One aspect of the EU Ecolabel certification looks at coverage and opacity of eco-friendly paints. Paints with good coverage and opacity will need less product to complete a project.
For white and light coloured paints, EU Ecolabel sets minimum spreading rates at 98% hiding power. Indoor paints must reach at least 8 m²/L, while outdoor paints must reach at least 6 m²/L.
What does this mean? EU Ecolabel certification ensures that a paint is not only lower impact, but efficient in use.
