Deck Staining Cost Calculator

Deck staining costs $1–$2 per sq ft for semi-transparent stain including prep and labor. A 300 sq ft deck costs $300–$600. Clear sealer costs $0.50–$1.50/sq ft, solid stain $1.50–$2.50/sq ft, premium oil-based $2–$3.50/sq ft. Add $0.50–$1/sq ft for cleaning/prep and $100–$300 for railing staining.

Restain decks every 2–3 years for semi-transparent stain, 3–5 years for solid stain, or 1–2 years for clear sealer. Signs you need restaining: water no longer beads on surface, wood turns gray, stain is fading or peeling. Pressure-treated wood needs initial staining 6–12 months after installation once wood dries out.

Yes, DIY deck staining is straightforward and saves 60–70% on labor. Rent pressure washer ($75/day), buy stain ($25–$60/gallon covers 200–400 sq ft), and brushes/rollers ($20–$40). Clean deck, let dry 48 hours, apply 1–2 coats. Takes 1–2 days for average deck. Professional finish requires sprayer and experience with even coverage.

Best deck stains: Oil-based penetrates deepest and lasts longest (3–5 years) but takes 48 hrs to dry. Water-based dries fast (2–4 hrs), easy cleanup, but lasts 2–3 years. Top brands: Behr Premium ($40/gal), Olympic Maximum ($45/gal), Sherwin-Williams SuperDeck ($50/gal), Cabot Australian Timber Oil ($60/gal for premium). Choose semi-transparent for natural look or solid for coverage.

Depends on condition. If old stain is peeling or flaking, strip it with deck stripper ($30/gal) or sand it off. If old stain is just faded but still adhered, clean with deck cleaner and restain directly. Never apply solid stain over semi-transparent without stripping — it won't penetrate. Wait 48 hrs after cleaning/stripping before staining.

Clear sealer ($0.50–$1.50/sq ft) protects wood and shows natural grain but requires reapplication every 1–2 years. Semi-transparent stain ($1–$2/sq ft) adds color while showing grain, lasts 2–3 years. Solid stain ($1.50–$2.50/sq ft) covers like paint, hides imperfections, lasts 3–5 years. Choose based on desired look and maintenance frequency.

Best conditions: 50–90°F, low humidity, no rain in forecast for 48 hrs. Ideal seasons: late spring (May) or early fall (September) when temps are moderate. Avoid: full sun (stain dries too fast causing lap marks), temperatures over 90°F, or when rain is expected within 24 hrs. Morning application is best — allows drying before evening dew.

Water-based stain dries in 2–4 hours, ready for second coat in 4–6 hours. Oil-based takes 24–48 hours to dry, 48–72 hours before second coat. Full cure takes 7–14 days. Avoid foot traffic for 24–48 hrs, furniture for 72 hrs. High humidity or cool temps extend drying time. Test with water drops — if water beads, it's dry.