How many gallons of stain do I need for a deck?

For a typical 280 sq ft deck (20×14), you need about 1.1–1.4 gallons of semi-transparent stain for one coat, depending on wood porosity and application method. Add 10% for waste. Railings and steps add additional area — a full perimeter railing adds roughly 100–150 sq ft.

How much does it cost to stain a deck?

Professional deck staining costs $2–$5 per square foot, including materials, prep (power washing), and labor. A typical 280 sq ft deck runs $550–$1,400 depending on stain type, deck condition, and labor rates in your area.

Should I stain both sides of a fence?

For maximum protection and longevity, staining both sides of a fence is recommended. Moisture penetrates from both sides, and leaving one side bare allows water to soak in and cause warping, splitting, and premature rot. Staining both sides roughly doubles the material and labor cost.

What type of deck stain lasts the longest?

Solid stains last the longest (4–6 years) because they have the most pigment, which blocks UV damage. However, they hide the wood grain. Semi-solid stains offer a good balance of durability (3–5 years) and grain visibility. Transparent stains look most natural but need reapplication every 1–2 years.

Free Deck & Fence Stain Calculator — Gallons, Labor & Cost

Deck Dimensions

Deck Length (ft)

Deck Width (ft)

Railing

Railing Length (LF)

Total linear feet of all railing sections

Number of Steps

Each step adds ~4 sq ft

Stain Details

Stain Type

Application Method

Number of Coats

Waste Factor (%)

Deck Condition

Labor Rate ($/hr)

Results

Total stainable area 280 sq ft

Gallons needed 1.23 gal

Recommended Purchase

Buy 2 × 1-gallon cans

Staining labor —

Prep labor —

Estimated Cost

Materials (stain) —

Staining labor —

Prep labor —

Estimated Total —

Stain type comparison

Stain Type	Coverage	Durability	Reapply Cycle	Appearance
Transparent	250–300 ft²/gal	1–2 years	Annually	Shows full wood grain; natural look
Semi-Transparent	200–275 ft²/gal	2–3 years	Every 2–3 years	Tinted; grain still visible
Semi-Solid	150–225 ft²/gal	3–5 years	Every 3–4 years	Heavy pigment; grain partially hidden
Solid Stain	125–175 ft²/gal	4–6 years	Every 4–5 years	Opaque; looks like paint but penetrates

Prep requirements by condition

Condition	Prep Required	Time Factor
Good	Power wash, let dry 24–48 hours	500–1,000 ft²/hr
Weathered	Power wash + wood brightener, dry 48 hours	300–500 ft²/hr
Previously stained	Power wash + sand or chemical strip, dry 48+ hours	100–200 ft²/hr

For detailed cost breakdowns and pricing strategies, see our Deck Staining Cost Guide and Coverage Rates by Surface reference.

Deck & Fence Stain Calculator

Deck Dimensions

Stain Details

Fence Dimensions

Stain Details

Results

Stain type comparison

Prep requirements by condition

Handle decks, fences, and full exteriors in one estimate