Deck Stain Calculator

Estimate how many gallons of stain or sealant you need for your deck and railings, then compare costs across four product types to find the best value.

Deck Length (ft)

Deck Width (ft)

Railing Linear Feet

Number of Coats

Waste Factor (%)

Pricing per Gallon (edit to match local rates)

Transparent Stain ($)

Semi-Transparent ($)

Solid Stain ($)

Clear Sealant ($)

Total Stainable Area

456 sq ft

Deck: 264 sq ft · Railing: 192 sq ft

Cheapest Option

Solid Stain

3 gal · $135.00

Purchase Option	Quantity	Est. Cost
Transparent Stain	5 gal	$175.00
Semi-Transparent Stain	4 gal	$160.00
Solid StainBest value	3 gal	$135.00
Clear Sealant	6 gal	$180.00

Cheapest option: Solid Stain at $135.00Transparent and semi-transparent stains let the wood grain show through and are easier to reapply — ideal for newer decks in good condition. Solid stain covers more per gallon and hides imperfections, but is harder to strip when it peels.

Solid stain behaves like paintSolid stain covers blemishes well but forms a film that can peel over time. Make sure the deck is fully clean and dry before applying, and plan for more intensive prep when recoating in the future.

This is a material estimate only. Actual coverage varies by wood porosity, product brand, and application method — always check the coverage rate on your product label and round up.