How many drywall sheets for a ceiling?

Ceiling area ÷ sheet area, then round up and add waste for cutoffs and seams.

Ceilings are easiest to estimate by area, but sheet layout (8', 10', 12' sheets) can change how much waste you generate.

Start with ceiling square footage, then choose a sheet size and apply a waste factor for cutoffs and mistakes.

Step-by-step: ceiling drywall estimate

Measure ceiling area (length × width) for each room and add them up.
Pick sheet size (e.g., 4×8, 4×10, 4×12) based on room size and handling.
Divide ceiling area by sheet area to get a base sheet count.
Add a waste factor (often 10–15% depending on layout and obstacles).
Round up to whole sheets and plan for extra around light boxes or irregular edges.

Longer sheets can reduce seams but are harder to handle—balance labor vs material efficiency.
Plan sheet orientation to reduce seams and avoid tiny strips.
Ceiling work is awkward; a little extra drywall can prevent delays.
Confirm local code requirements for thickness and type (regular vs moisture resistant).

Want the fast estimate?

Use our drywall calculator and share a link that keeps your inputs.