Fence Paint & Stain Calculator
Wood fences absorb significantly more product per square foot than smooth interior walls because of gaps between boards, exposed end grain, rough-sawn surfaces, and back coverage on the fence boards. This calculator applies a 1.2 surface factor to account for the effective area increase from board texture and gaps. Semi-transparent stain penetrates the wood and covers 150 sq ft per gallon — it needs reapplication every 2–3 years but preserves the natural wood grain. Solid color paint covers about 300 sq ft per gallon, hides the grain, and lasts 3–5 years before peeling. Spray application increases efficiency by about 25% vs. brush, but overspray onto surrounding plants and surfaces requires careful masking. For a new pressure-treated fence, wait 3–6 months before staining to allow the wood to dry and accept finish properly.
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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.
How long should I wait to stain a new pressure-treated fence?
Wait 3–6 months before staining a new pressure-treated fence. Pressure-treated wood is saturated with preservative chemicals and surface moisture when new — stain applied too early won't penetrate and will peel off quickly. Test readiness by splashing water on the boards: if it beads up, wait longer; if it absorbs, the fence is ready to stain.
How often should I restain a fence?
Semi-transparent stain needs reapplication every 2–3 years in most climates. Solid stain lasts 3–5 years. Painted fences last 4–6 years before peeling. Fences in full sun, wet climates, or coastal areas degrade faster. Regular cleaning with a deck brightener before each reapplication significantly extends the life of any finish.