Deck Stain Calculator

DIY deck staining costs $0.50–$2.00 per square foot for materials only (stain, brushes, tape, cleaner). A 300 sq ft deck costs $150–$600 in materials. Professional deck staining costs $1.50–$4.00 per square foot including labor, prep, and materials — roughly $450–$1,200 for a 300 sq ft deck. Costs vary by stain type, wood condition, and number of coats.

A gallon of deck stain covers 200–400 sq ft depending on the type: transparent stains cover 300–400 sq ft/gal, semi-transparent covers 250–350 sq ft/gal, and solid stains cover 200–300 sq ft/gal. For a 300 sq ft deck with 2 coats of semi-transparent stain, you’ll need approximately 2–3 gallons. Always buy an extra gallon for touch-ups.

Semi-transparent stain is the most popular choice — it adds color while showing the wood grain and provides good UV protection lasting 2–3 years. Transparent stain is best for new, premium wood but needs reapplication every 1–2 years. Solid stain is ideal for older decks with blemishes, lasting 3–5 years. Oil-based stains penetrate deeper into wood; water-based stains are easier to apply and clean up.

Transparent stains need reapplication every 1–2 years. Semi-transparent stains last 2–3 years on horizontal deck surfaces. Solid stains and deck paints last 3–5 years. Factors that shorten stain life include direct sun exposure, heavy foot traffic, moisture, and harsh winters. Perform the water test: if water soaks into the wood instead of beading, it’s time to restain.

DIY staining saves 50–70% over hiring a professional and is manageable for most homeowners. You’ll need a deck cleaner, stain, brushes/rollers, painter’s tape, and 1–2 days of work. Hire a professional if the deck needs extensive repairs, stripping of old stain, or if it’s multi-level with complex railings. Professional prep (power washing, sanding, repairs) ensures better stain adhesion and longevity.

Yes. Clean the deck thoroughly before staining. Use a deck cleaner or brightener and rinse with a garden hose or light pressure washer (under 1,500 PSI for softwoods, under 2,500 PSI for hardwoods). High pressure can damage wood fibers and cause uneven stain absorption. Let the deck dry completely (24–48 hours) before applying stain. Sanding lightly with 60–80 grit between cleaning and staining improves adhesion.

A brush provides the best stain penetration and is ideal for railings and detailed areas. A roller (with a 3/8″ nap) is faster for large flat surfaces — follow up by back-brushing. A pump sprayer is the fastest method for large decks but wastes 10–15% more stain from overspray. Many professionals spray first, then back-brush to work stain into the wood. For most DIY projects, a combination of roller (deck floor) and brush (railings) works best.

Railings should be stained along with the deck floor but require extra attention. Railing balusters, posts, and top rails add roughly 25% to the total stainable area. Use a brush for railings to ensure stain gets into all corners, joints, and end-grain surfaces. Vertical surfaces absorb less stain than horizontal deck boards, so you may use slightly less stain per coat on railings. Protect the deck floor with drop cloths when staining railings overhead.