Deck Builders
Deck Stain and Sealer Calculator
Find out how many gallons of stain or sealer you need for any deck size and number of coats.
752 sq ft × 2 coats ÷ 250 sq ft/gallon = 7 gallons. Always buy slightly more than calculated - stain can vary by brand and wood porosity.
Common Questions
How many square feet does a gallon of deck stain cover?
Most deck stains cover 200 to 350 square feet per gallon. Rough or weathered wood soaks up more stain, so use 200 square feet per gallon as your estimate. Smooth or previously sealed wood will get closer to 300 to 350 square feet per gallon.
How many coats of stain does a deck need?
New wood needs 2 to 3 coats. A maintenance coat on a deck you stained before usually only needs 1 coat. Always check the label on the can.
Do I need to stain the underside of the deck boards?
Staining the underside is optional but it helps prevent rot and moisture damage. It will roughly double your stain usage for the boards.
How often does a deck need to be restained?
Most decks need restaining every 2 to 3 years. Solid stains last longer than semi-transparent stains. If water stops beading on the surface, it is time to restain.
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