Breakdown:
';details+='- Total Area to Cover: '+(area*coats)+' sq. ft. ('+coats+' coats)
';details+='- Gallons Needed: '+gallonsNeeded+' gal (rounded up)
';details+='- Material Cost: $'+stainTotal.toFixed(2)+'
';if(type==='pro'){details+='- Labor Cost: $'+laborTotal.toFixed(2)+'
';}details+='- Cost per Square Foot: $'+(grandTotal/area).toFixed(2);document.getElementById('detailsBox').innerHTML=details;document.getElementById('detailsBox').style.display='block';}else{document.getElementById('detailsBox').style.display='none';}}
Calculator Use
The deck stain cost calculator is designed to help homeowners and contractors estimate the total investment required to refresh a wooden deck. By inputting your deck's dimensions and the price of materials, you can quickly determine whether a DIY approach or hiring a professional fits your budget.
To get an accurate result, ensure you measure the actual floor space of your deck and account for railings if you plan to stain those as well. Most stain manufacturers recommend two coats for optimal protection, which this tool handles automatically.
- Deck Area (Sq Ft)
- The total square footage of the wood surfaces you intend to stain. For a simple rectangular deck, multiply length by width.
- Price per Gallon
- The retail cost of one gallon of stain. Quality stains typically range from $35 to $70 per gallon.
- Stain Coverage
- How many square feet one gallon covers. Transparent stains usually cover more (250-350 sq ft), while solid stains cover less (150-250 sq ft).
How It Works
Calculating the cost of staining involves three main factors: material volume, material price, and labor. The deck stain cost calculator uses a specific sequence of logic to ensure you don't run out of supplies mid-project.
Total Cost = ((Area × Coats / Coverage) × Price) + (Area × Labor Rate)
- Material Calculation: We multiply the area by the number of coats and divide by the coverage rate to find the exact gallons needed. We always round up to the nearest whole gallon because you cannot buy partial cans at most hardware stores.
- Labor Factor: If "Professional" is selected, the calculator applies a per-square-foot labor charge, which typically covers cleaning, sanding, and application.
- Coverage Variance: New wood absorbs more stain than old wood. If your deck is brand new, you may want to decrease the coverage rate in the calculator to account for higher absorption.
Calculation Example
Example: A homeowner has a 400-square-foot deck and wants to apply two coats of a premium semi-transparent stain that costs $50 per gallon. They are considering hiring a pro who charges $3.00 per square foot.
Step-by-step solution:
- Total surface area to cover: 400 sq ft × 2 coats = 800 sq ft.
- Gallons required: 800 sq ft / 250 sq ft coverage = 3.2 gallons (Must buy 4 gallons).
- Stain Material Cost: 4 gallons × $50 = $200.00.
- Labor Cost: 400 sq ft × $3.00 = $1,200.00.
- Total Project Cost = $200 + $1,200 = $1,400.00.
Common Questions
How much does it cost to stain a 12×12 deck?
A 12×12 deck is 144 square feet. For a DIY project with two coats, you would typically need 2 gallons of stain. At $45 per gallon, your material cost is roughly $90 plus supplies like brushes and cleaners. Professional services would add $400 to $600 to that total.
Should I use a solid or semi-transparent stain?
Solid stains provide more UV protection and cover imperfections but require more material (lower coverage rate). Semi-transparent stains show the wood grain but may require more frequent maintenance. Solid stains often cost more per project because they cover fewer square feet per gallon.
Does the deck stain cost calculator include prep work?
The calculator includes labor costs if the professional option is selected, which generally encompasses basic pressure washing and application. However, significant repairs, such as replacing rotted boards or heavy sanding, will usually incur additional fees not captured in a standard per-square-foot estimate.