Wood Stain Calculator

Never buy too much or too little stain. Our calculator accounts for surface area, wood type absorption rate, and number of coats to tell you exactly how much stain to buy. Covers decks, fences, siding, and outdoor furniture.

How to Use This Tool

Enter the total surface length in linear feet.
Enter the surface width or total linear footage (for fences, enter the total length along all sides).
Select wood type absorption factor (1.0 = sealed/previous stain, 0.5-0.8 = raw softwood, 0.3-0.5 = raw hardwood).
Enter the number of coats you plan to apply.
Click Calculate to get your stain quantity in gallons and pints.

The Formula

Coverage per gallon varies by wood type: Coverage = 300 sq ft / Absorption Factor. Raw softwood absorbs more (lower coverage), sealed or previously stained wood absorbs less. Total stain = (Surface Area x Coats) / Coverage per Gallon. We round up to ensure you have enough.

Why It Matters

You want to stain a 500 sq ft deck. Stain covers 150-200 sq ft per gallon. You need 3 gallons for two coats. For weathered wood, buy 4 gallons to be safe. Cost at $30/gallon: ~$120.

More Calculators to Explore

🛠️

Decking Calculator

Calculate boards, joists, screws, and concrete needed for your deck. Includes waste factor.

Open calculator →

🛠️

Mulch Calculator

Calculate how many cubic yards of mulch you need for your garden beds and landscaping. Order the right amount every time.

Open calculator →

🛠️

Roofing Calculator

Calculate how many bundles of shingles you need for your roof. Enter roof dimensions and pitch to get accurate material estimates.

Open calculator →

🛠️

Insulation Calculator

Calculate batt insulation rolls needed for walls, ceilings, and attics. R-value guide included.

Open calculator →

Back to all tools

Recent Activity

No recent calculations