Deck Stain Calculator
Deck stain spreads farther on smooth cedar than on rough pressure-treated. Default coverage is conservative for transparent products.
Step 1: Units
Step 2
Enter project measurements
Use decimals if needed (e.g. 3.5).
Step 3
How to use this calculator
Enter deck board surface area (both faces if refinishing all sides). Add coats for build color.
What the math is doing
Uses a reduced coverage rate typical of penetrating stains on horizontal decking.
Frequently asked questions
Do I stain railings separately?
Add railing square footage to the area field.
Solid color stain?
Behaves more like paint; increase coverage toward paint values.
Weather window?
Follow label dry times and temperature ranges.
New PT lumber?
Wait until moisture content is acceptable per manufacturer.