Plasterboard calculator
Enter the wall or ceiling area in m², pick a sheet size, set the number of layers and see how many sheets to buy.
Estimates only. Check the manufacturer's coverage rates.
How this is calculated
The calculator multiplies the area by the number of layers, adds a wastage allowance and divides by the area of one sheet, rounding up to whole sheets. A 2400 x 1200 mm sheet covers 2.88 m², a 2400 x 900 mm sheet covers 2.16 m² and an 1800 x 900 mm sheet covers 1.62 m².
For example, 30 m² with one layer and 10% wastage is 33 m², which is 11.46 sheets of 2400 x 1200 mm board, so you buy 12.
Boards come in several thicknesses, so check the specification for your job before ordering. Allow extra for awkward rooms with many cuts, and subtract large openings from the area. Stud partitions have two sides, so enter the total area of both sides; if you are fitting two layers on each side, set layers to 2 and enter the area of both sides. To find the area of a wall or ceiling, multiply its length by its width or height.
- Boards come in several thicknesses, so check the specification.
- Stud partitions have two sides: enter the total area of both.
- Subtract large openings and allow extra for awkward rooms with many cuts.
Frequently asked questions
How many m² does a sheet of plasterboard cover?
A 2400 x 1200 mm sheet covers 2.88 m², a 2400 x 900 mm sheet covers 2.16 m² and an 1800 x 900 mm sheet covers 1.62 m².
How do I calculate a stud partition?
Stud partitions have two sides, so enter the total area of both sides. If you are fitting two layers per side, set layers to 2.
How much wastage should I allow?
10% is the default. Allow extra for awkward rooms with many cuts.