Stain Coverage Calculator
How much stain to buy — by area, coats, and wood type
Total Coverage Needed
200ft²
Gallons Needed
1.1gal
Quarts Needed
4.4qt
How to use this stain coverage calculator
Enter the total surface area you’re staining and how many coats you plan to apply — most projects want two. Pick the closest match for your wood surface, since porous or rough-sawn wood soaks up noticeably more stain per square foot than smooth, planed lumber.
Formula
Total Coverage = Area × Coats
Gallons Needed = Total Coverage ÷ Coverage Rate
Gallons Needed = Total Coverage ÷ Coverage Rate
Coverage rates are estimates — actual usage varies by stain brand, application method (rag vs. brush vs. sprayer), and how much gets wiped back off. Rounding up to the next full container is usually the safer call, since running out mid-coat on an open-grain surface can leave a visible line.