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.
Stain Needed (Gallons):
Stain Needed (Pints):
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.