Deck and Fence Stain Calculator

Gallons of stain by surface, coats and wood condition.

Project Details
Enter your measurements and requirements
$
Results
Calculated estimates for your project
Surface area400 sq ft
First coat2.29 gal
Second coat1.52 gal
Gallons to buy4
Estimated cost$160

Turn these numbers into a build plan.

  • 400 sq ft area
  • 4 gal stain
  • $160 est. cost
Materials List
Recommended materials and quantities
Stain4 gal

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Project plan · built from your numbers

Stain a deck, 400 sq ft

400 sq ft of weathered wood, 2 coats. Order 4 gallons.

Materials
$200
Time
1 weekend
Level
Easy
6 steps 4 tools 3 materials
  1. 1

    Check the forecast

    Pick two dry days within the temperature range on the can, out of direct midday sun.

  2. 2

    Clean

    Wash with cleaner, rinse well and let the wood dry for at least two days.

  3. 3

    Repair and prep

    Set proud fasteners, replace bad boards and sand rough spots.

01 · Your numbers
Area
400 sq ft
Stain
4 gal
Est. cost
$160
02 · The plan

6 steps · 4 tools · 3 materials

3 more steps, the full tool list and a shopping list you can check off as you go.

03 · Finished

Your plan is 60% built. Save it.

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Stain a deck, 400 sq ft

Finished in 1 weekend · $200 DIY

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How much stain you need

Coverage varies by product, so check the can. See deck refinishing and wood staining and finishing.

  1. Find the area. Include rails, steps and both sides of a fence.
  2. Judge the wood. Weathered and rough wood absorb much more than new wood.
  3. Divide by coverage. New wood covers about 250 sq ft per gallon, rough about 125.
  4. Count coats. A second coat usually spreads about 50% further.

Frequently asked questions

How much stain do I need for a 12 x 20 deck?

With 32 ft of rail and 4 steps, the surface is about 400 sq ft. Two coats on weathered wood take about 4 gallons.

How much stain for a 100 ft fence?

A 6 ft fence stained on both sides is 1,200 sq ft, about 5 gallons for one coat on new wood.

Do I need two coats?

Follow the can. Many semi-transparent stains want one or two thin coats, and some are one-coat products.

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