Fence Paint & Stain Calculator
Wood fences absorb more stain or paint than smooth walls because of gaps between boards, end grain, and rough surfaces. This calculator applies a 1.2 surface factor to account for this. Semi-transparent stain covers only 150 sq ft per gallon; solid paint covers about 300 sq ft per gallon.
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Top PickOlympic Stain Semi-Transparent — Home Depot~$30/gal* Affiliate links — we may earn a commission at no cost to you.
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How to Use This Calculator
- 1Enter your measurements in the fields above. Use the units shown next to each field (ft, in, etc.).
- 2Click Calculate to get your material estimate instantly.
- 3Review the highlighted result — it shows the key quantity you need to order.
- 4Use Copy Results to save your estimate, or bookmark the URL — your inputs are encoded in the link.
Pro tip: Always add 10% to your material order to account for waste, cuts, and defects.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much stain do I need for a 100-foot fence?
A 100-foot privacy fence at 6 feet tall has 600 sq ft per side, or 1,200 sq ft for both sides. With the 1.2 surface factor for boards and gaps, effective coverage is about 1,440 sq ft. At 150 sq ft per gallon for semi-transparent stain, you need about 10 gallons per coat — 20 gallons for 2 coats.
Should I paint or stain a wood fence?
Stain penetrates the wood fibers and allows moisture to escape, reducing peeling and cracking. Paint sits on the surface and can peel as the wood moves seasonally. For natural wood fences, stain is the better long-term choice. Paint is better for smooth-planed boards where you want a solid color.