Staining a wood fence protects it from rot and UV damage, but fence area adds up fast because you might be staining both sides. This calculator helps you buy the right amount of stain for your fence dimensions.
Fence Dimensions
ft
ft
Stain Options
One Side
Scenario: You're staining just the street-facing side of an 80 ft long, 6 ft tall privacy fence with 1 coat.
Result: Total area: 80 x 6 = 480 sq ft. At 200 sq ft per gallon, you need 3 gallons of fence stain.
Both Sides
Scenario: You're staining both sides of an 80 ft long, 6 ft tall privacy fence with 1 coat.
Result: Total area: 80 x 6 x 2 = 960 sq ft. At 200 sq ft per gallon, you need 5 gallons of fence stain.
Multiply fence length by height for one side. Double it if staining both sides. Divide by the coverage rate on the can (150-250 sq ft per gallon on rough-sawn wood). A 100-ft, 6-ft-tall fence needs about 3 gallons per side.
Ideally yes -- staining both sides provides balanced moisture protection, which prevents warping. If you can only do one side, prioritize the side that gets the most sun exposure, as UV damage causes the most deterioration.
Semi-transparent fence stain lasts 2-4 years depending on sun exposure and weather. Solid stain lasts 4-6 years. The south-facing side of the fence fades fastest. Plan to restain when the color starts looking washed out.
Wait 2-4 weeks for pressure-treated wood to dry before staining. Test by sprinkling water on the surface -- if it beads up, the wood isn't ready. Cedar and redwood can be stained immediately. Never stain wet or damp wood.
Want to learn more before you start your project?
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