Fence Paint Calculator

Calculate paint or stain needed for any fence type. Accounts for fence style (solid, picket, split rail), number of coats, and paint type. Includes primer needs, supplies estimate, labor costs, and application time estimates.

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Gallons
11
2 coat(s)
Surface Area
1,367
sq ft total
Total Cost
$688
$6.88/linear ft
DIY Time
15.9
hours (est.)
Shopping List
ItemQtyCost
Semi-Transparent Stain11 gal$440
Brushes (4" flat)1$12
Roller Covers (9")2$16
Tape, Drop Cloth, Stir Sticks--$15
Surface Prep (cleaner, sandpaper)--$205
Grand Total$688
Annual maintenance cost: ~$229/yr (reapply every 3 years)
Stain & Paint Comparison
Finish$/GalCoatsLastsNotes
Transparent Stain$3522 yrsShows grain, least protection, most recoating
Semi-Transparent StainSelected$4023 yrsBest balance of protection and grain visibility
Solid Color Stain$4525 yrsHides grain, good protection, like thin paint
Exterior Paint$5027 yrsMaximum protection, can peel over time
Water Sealer/Repellent$2511 yrClear protection, must reapply annually
Application Tips
Best Weather
50-85 F
Low humidity, no rain for 24hrs
Dry Time Between Coats
2-4 hours
Check manufacturer label
New Wood Wait
2-4 weeks
Let new wood weather before staining
Prep Matters
Clean first
Power wash 24-48 hrs before staining
Sprayer Speed
2-3x faster
Airless sprayer for large fences
Coverage
250 sqft/gal
Rough/dry wood uses more

How to Use Fence Paint Calculator

  1. 1Enter fence length and height
  2. 2Select fence style and finish type
  3. 3Set number of coats
  4. 4View gallons needed and cost estimate

Frequently Asked Questions

How much paint do I need for a fence?

Coverage depends on paint type and fence style. Latex paint covers about 350 sqft/gallon on smooth wood. Oil stain covers about 250 sqft/gallon. A 100-ft privacy fence (6 ft tall, both sides) has about 1,200 sqft of surface area, needing 4-5 gallons per coat.

Should I stain or paint my fence?

Stain is preferred for most fences — it penetrates the wood, highlights grain, and is easier to reapply. Paint provides a solid color finish and better protection but can peel and is harder to maintain. Semi-transparent stain is the most popular choice for wood fences.

How often should I restain a fence?

Transparent stain: every 1-2 years. Semi-transparent stain: every 2-3 years. Solid stain: every 3-5 years. Paint: every 5-7 years. Fences in full sun or wet climates need more frequent maintenance.

About Fence Paint Calculator

Calculate paint or stain needed for any fence type. Accounts for fence style (solid, picket, split rail), number of coats, and paint type. Includes primer needs, supplies estimate, labor costs, and application time estimates.

NexTool's Fence Paint Calculator is completely free to use with no sign-up required. Your data is processed directly in your browser and never sent to our servers, ensuring complete privacy and instant results.

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