Calculate how much stain, paint, or sealer you need for your deck. Get gallons needed, cost estimates, prep supply lists, and drying times between coats.
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The amount of stain depends on your deck area, product type, and number of coats. Transparent stains cover 150–300 sqft/gal, semi-transparent 100–200 sqft/gal, and solid stains 75–150 sqft/gal. Multiply your deck area by the number of coats, then divide by the coverage rate to get gallons needed.
The best time to stain a deck is late spring or early fall when temperatures are between 50–85°F (10–30°C) and humidity is moderate. In Ontario, May–June and September–October are ideal. Avoid staining in direct sunlight, before rain, or when temperatures drop below 50°F overnight.
Stain penetrates the wood grain and allows it to breathe, making it ideal for most decks. Paint forms a film on the surface that can peel and crack over time, especially on horizontal surfaces. Semi-transparent stain is the most popular choice as it adds color while showing wood grain. Paint is best for older decks with imperfections to hide.
Drying time between coats varies by product type: transparent stains need 2–4 hours, semi-transparent stains 4–6 hours, solid stains 4–8 hours, and paint 6–8 hours. Always follow the manufacturer's recommendations and allow extra time in humid or cool conditions.
Yes, proper prep is essential for a lasting finish. New wood should be cleaned and brightened. Weathered wood needs cleaning and may need sanding. Previously stained decks may require stripping the old finish first. Always let the wood dry 24–48 hours after cleaning before applying stain.
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