Deck Stain Calculator (Gallons by Wood Type)
Enter deck area and wood type to get gallons of stain to buy.
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Deck Stain Calculator (Gallons by Wood Type) by TheCalcTools
How the Deck Stain Calculator (Gallons by Wood Type) works
Enter the deck floor area. Railings count both sides, and each step is taken as 6 sq ft.
Choose the wood condition. Rough or weathered wood soaks up more stain, so a gallon covers less area.
Gallons = surface × coats ÷ coverage per gallon.
The formula
Worked example
Using the default values shown in the calculator:
| Deck floor area (sq ft) | 300 |
|---|---|
| Railing length (ft) | 40 |
| Railing height (ft) | 3 |
| Steps | 4 |
| Wood condition | New cedar or smooth wood (200 sq ft per gal) |
| Coats | 2 coats |
| Price per gallon | $45 |
- Floor 300 + railings 40 × 3 × 2 + 4 steps × 6 = 564 sq ft.
- At 200 sq ft per gallon and 2 coats: 5.6 gal, buy 6 gal, about $270.00.
Result:
| Total surface to stain (sq ft) | 564 |
|---|---|
| Stain needed (gallons) | 5.6 |
| Gallons to buy | 6 |
| Estimated cost | $270.00 |
Frequently asked questions
How much does a gallon of deck stain cover?
Typically 100 to 300 sq ft depending on the product and how porous the wood is. Always check the can.
Do I need two coats?
Many penetrating stains need one coat; some need two. Follow the manufacturer’s directions, because too much stain can stay tacky.
Sources and further reading
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This calculator gives estimates for information only. Check important results independently before you rely on them. See our disclaimer.