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How Much Does Fence Staining Cost? (2026)

Staining protects a wood fence from sun, water and rot and keeps the grain visible. Pros charge by the square foot of fence, so height and doing both sides move the price as much as length. Most fences need a fresh coat every 2-3 years.

Cost breakdown

Per linear foot, 6 ft fence, one side
$5 - $12
Per square foot
$0.80 - $2.00
150 ft fence, one side
$720 - $1,800
150 ft fence, both sides
$1,300 - $3,240
DIY stain for 150 ft, one side
$180 - $360
Frequency
Every 2-3 years

Stain and paint calculator

Finish
Wood surface
Height
Sides
Surface to cover
900 sq ft
Gallons needed
6
DIY, materials only
$180 - $360
Hiring a pro
$720 - $1,800

Solid privacy fence, one coat of stain or two coats of paint. Rough or weathered boards take 40-70% more than new smooth ones. A picket fence with gaps takes about a third less, and a paint sprayer uses more than a brush or roller.

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FAQ

How much does it cost to stain a fence?
A pro charges $0.80-$2.00 per square foot, which is $5-$12 per linear foot for one side of a 6 ft privacy fence. A 150 ft fence costs $720-$1,800 for one side and $1,300-$3,240 for both. Doing it yourself costs $180-$360 in stain.
How many gallons of stain do I need for a fence?
One gallon covers about 150 sq ft of rough or weathered wood and about 250 sq ft of new smooth boards in one coat. One side of a 150 ft, 6 ft fence is 900 sq ft: about 6 gallons on rough wood or 4 on smooth. A second coat takes roughly half as much again.
How often should you stain a fence?
Every 2-3 years. It is time when water stops beading on the boards or the color has faded to gray. Cedar and solid stains can go 3-4 years between coats.
Is it better to stain or paint a fence?
Stain is better for most wood fences. It soaks into the wood, lets it breathe and shows the grain, and when it wears it fades rather than peels. Paint covers flaws and comes in any color, but it peels, needs scraping before recoating and costs more: two coats instead of one.
Can I stain a fence myself?
Yes, it is one of the easiest fence jobs to do yourself. You need the stain ($30-$60 a gallon), a pump sprayer or a roller and brush, and a dry weekend with no rain for 24-48 hours. Wash the fence and let it dry a couple of days first.

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