Advanced Paint Coverage Calculator

What is Dry Film Thickness (DFT) and why is it important?

Dry Film Thickness (DFT) is the thickness of the paint film after all solvents have evaporated and the paint has fully cured. It's crucial because it directly impacts the paint's protective qualities, durability, and appearance. Manufacturers specify a recommended DFT range in their Technical Data Sheets (TDS) to ensure optimal performance. Too thin, and the paint won't protect; too thick, and it can lead to issues like cracking or solvent pop.

What is Paint Volume Solids (VS) and where do I find it?

Paint Volume Solids (VS) represents the percentage of the liquid paint that will remain on the surface as a solid film after drying. The higher the VS, the more solid material you get per liter of liquid paint, meaning better coverage. This critical information is always found on the paint manufacturer's Technical Data Sheet (TDS). It's a key indicator of a paint's true efficiency.

What is Spray Gun Transfer Efficiency (TE) and how does it affect paint usage?

Transfer Efficiency (TE) is the percentage of paint sprayed from the gun that actually lands on the target surface. The rest is lost to overspray. Higher TE means less waste and more paint on the car. Factors affecting TE include spray gun type (HVLP guns typically have higher TE than conventional guns), air pressure, spray distance, and painter technique. Our calculator helps you account for this real-world loss.