Deck Stain Volumes: Litres, Gallons, and Rough Timber
Rough timber drinks more stain than smooth boards, so a bare division undercounts. This post shows the allowance and the litre-to-gallon conversion.
What is the Deck Stain Gallons Calculator?
Enter the deck area and the coverage per litre, and the tool adds a 10 percent allowance for rough timber and overlap, then converts the result to gallons. The allowance is shown separately.
How to use it
- Measure the deck area in square metres.
- Enter the coverage per litre from the stain packaging.
- Click Calculate Stain.
Worked example
20 sq m at 8 sq m per litre needs 2.5 litres exactly, or 2.75 litres with waste, about 0.73 gallons.
Does a second coat double the amount?
Yes, if you plan two coats, double the single-coat figure before buying.
Frequently asked questions
Should I stain in hot sun?
No, hot sun dries stain too fast and leaves lap marks; stain in mild, dry conditions.
What about railings and steps?
Add their area to the deck area first, since they drink stain too.