Wood Stain Coverage Calculator
Professional wood stain calculator for furniture making and restoration projects. Calculate stain requirements, coverage area, and material costs with wood species analysis and application guidance.
⚠️ WOOD STAINING SAFETY NOTICE
Wood staining requires proper ventilation, protective equipment, and controlled environmental conditions. Always test stain on sample pieces and follow manufacturer's safety guidelines for application and disposal.
Project Specifications
Surface to Stain
Wood Species & Condition
Additional Surfaces
Stain Specifications
Cost Analysis
Coverage Results
Enter surface dimensions and stain specifications to calculate your wood stain coverage requirements and costs.
Wood Species Guide
Different wood species absorb stain differently. Hardwoods like oak and maple require less stain, while softwoods like pine absorb more and may need pre-conditioner.
Stain Types
Oil-based stains penetrate deeper and last longer. Water-based stains dry faster and have less odor. Gel stains provide more control and even coverage on blotchy woods.
Environmental Conditions
Temperature and humidity affect stain application. Ideal conditions are 65-75°F with 40-50% humidity. Avoid staining in direct sunlight or extreme temperatures.
Application Timing
Allow proper drying time between coats. Oil-based stains typically need 4-6 hours, while water-based stains dry in 1-2 hours. Follow manufacturer guidelines.
Frequently Asked Questions
Calculate the total surface area to be stained (length × width for each surface), consider the wood species absorption rate, and add 15-20% for waste. Different application methods and wood conditions affect coverage rates.
Generally, one quart covers 100-150 sq ft for most stains on smooth surfaces. Rough or porous woods may require 50-75% more stain. Gel stains typically cover 75-100 sq ft per quart.
Oil-based stains penetrate deeper, enhance grain patterns, and last longer but take longer to dry. Water-based stains dry faster, have less odor, and maintain the wood's natural color better but may raise the grain.
Pre-conditioner is recommended for softwoods like pine, cherry, and maple to prevent blotchy staining. It helps achieve more even color absorption. Always test on a sample piece first.
Most projects need 1-2 coats. The first coat provides the base color, and a second coat can deepen the color if desired. More than 2 coats rarely improves appearance and may cause adhesion problems with topcoats.
Brush application provides good control and penetration. Rag application gives the most even results. Spray application is fastest for large areas but requires more skill. Choose based on your project size and experience level.