A drywall contractor needs to estimate joint compound for 4,800 square feet of drywall. Using the standard coverage rate of 0.053 gallons per 100 square feet, how many gallons are needed?
Correct Answer
B) 2.5 gallons
Coverage needed = (4,800 ÷ 100) × 0.053 = 48 × 0.053 = 2.544 gallons, rounded to 2.5 gallons. This calculation helps ensure adequate material for proper joint finishing.
Why This Is the Correct Answer
Option B is correct because the calculation follows the proper formula for material estimation. First, convert the total square footage to hundreds of square feet (4,800 ÷ 100 = 48), then multiply by the coverage rate (48 × 0.053 = 2.544 gallons). Rounding to the nearest tenth gives 2.5 gallons, which accounts for practical application needs.
Why the Other Options Are Wrong
Option A: 2.1 gallons
This answer is too low at 2.1 gallons, likely resulting from calculation errors or improper rounding that would leave insufficient joint compound for the project.
Option C: 3.2 gallons
This answer of 3.2 gallons overestimates the need, possibly from multiplying incorrectly or using wrong conversion factors, leading to material waste and increased costs.
Option D: 4.8 gallons
This answer of 4.8 gallons is nearly double what's needed, likely from forgetting to divide by 100 or misunderstanding the coverage rate units.
Memory Technique
Remember 'Divide by 100, then multiply through' - always convert to hundreds first when dealing with per-100-SF rates.
Reference Hint
Look up material estimation tables and drywall finishing specifications in the Construction Materials chapter or Estimating section of your reference manual.
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