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PaintingFence Stain Calculator — How Much Stain Do I Need?
Enter your fence length and height to estimate stain. Rough pickets soak up more than smooth wood, so coverage runs lower than wall paint.
How this calculator works
We multiply fence length × height for one side, multiply by coats, and divide by about 150 sq ft per gallon — typical for stain on rough fence pickets. Smooth wood covers more; weathered wood covers less.
What changes how much you need
- Staining both sides? Double your fence length before calculating.
- Rough, dog-eared, or weathered pickets drink more — figure 100–150 sq ft/gal.
- Most semi-transparent stains want one thorough coat; over-applying causes peeling.
- A sprayer loses some stain through the gaps between pickets — a brush uses less.
Frequently asked questions
How much stain for a fence?
Estimate the one-side area (length × height) and divide by ~150 sq ft/gal. A 50-ft, 6-ft-tall fence is ~300 sq ft per side — about 2 gallons for one side.
Do I count both sides of the fence?
If you’re staining both sides, yes — double the length (or area) in the calculator.
How many coats of fence stain?
Usually one good coat for semi-transparent stain. Follow the can — extra coats can peel on exterior wood.