How Much Stain Do I Need for My Fence?
Multiply your fence length by its height to get square feet for one side, then double it if you are staining both sides. Most fence stains cover roughly 150–300 square feet per gallon depending on the product and how rough the wood is. Always check the coverage rate on your can.
Quick Calculator
Posts
16
Concrete
32
Pickets
320
Rails
39
Est. Cost
$1,500–$2,500
Detailed Answer
Formula: gallons = (length × height × sides) ÷ coverage per gallon.
100 ft of 6 ft privacy fence: - One side: 600 sq ft - Both sides: 1,200 sq ft - At 200 sq ft/gal: 3 gallons per side, 6 gallons for both sides
Quick estimates (6 ft fence, both sides, 200 sq ft/gal): - 150 ft: 9 gallons - 200 ft: 12 gallons - 300 ft: 18 gallons
Rough-sawn and very dry wood soaks up more stain, so the first coat often uses more than the label says. Buy an extra gallon from the same batch so the color matches.
Recommended Materials
Pressure-Treated Fence Post 4×4×8
Ground-contact rated, ideal for all fence types.
$12 – $18
Cedar Dog-Ear Picket 1×6×6
Naturally rot-resistant, smooth on one side.
$3 – $6
Quikrete 60 lb Fast-Setting Concrete
Sets in 20-40 minutes. No mixing required.
$5 – $7
Post Hole Digger – Fiberglass Handle
Heavy-duty clamshell digger for clean holes.
$35 – $55
Simpson Strong-Tie Fence Bracket
Galvanized L-bracket for rail-to-post connections.
$4 – $8
Decorative Post Cap 4×4
Copper-top cap, fits standard 4×4 posts.
$5 – $12