Deck Stain Calculator
How much stain do you need? Enter your deck size and coats.
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Deck area—
Estimated cost—
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How this calculator works
Deck stain covers about 200 sq ft per gallon on wood. The calculator multiplies your deck area by the number of coats and divides by that coverage.
Worked example — a 16 ft × 12 ft deck, 1 coat:
192 sq ft ÷ 200 = 1 gallon.
Rough wood drinks more
Old, dry, or rough-sawn boards soak up more stain, so coverage can drop to 150 sq ft per gallon. Round up if your deck is weathered.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a gallon of deck stain cover?
About 200 sq ft on smooth wood; less on rough or thirsty boards.
Do I need one coat or two?
Most penetrating stains are one coat; some semi-transparent and solid stains recommend two.
Planning a decking project
Board dimensions are nominal sizes and can vary by product. Include joist layout, picture framing, stairs, fascia, seams, and the direction of the boards in a final takeoff. Structural sizing and ledger details should be checked against local code or reviewed by a qualified builder.
How to use this estimate
- Measure the project in the units shown and recheck your measurements before ordering.
- Use the waste allowance as a planning buffer, not as a substitute for a detailed material takeoff.
- Compare the result with the package yield, coverage, or weight listed by your supplier.
- Prices are user-entered estimates and may change by location, product, delivery, and season.
Accuracy and limitations
Calculapedia provides educational planning estimates. It does not inspect your site, select products, guarantee quantities, or replace a contractor, engineer, architect, building official, or supplier. Confirm the final quantity and any safety or code requirements before buying or building.