How much area does a litre of wood stain cover?

Most wood stains cover 12-16 m² per litre for the first coat on smooth timber. Rough or porous wood absorbs more and may only get 8-10 m² per litre. Always check the manufacturer data sheet.

How many coats of stain should I apply?

One coat gives a lighter colour; two coats are standard for most projects. Three coats can be used for very dark finishes. Always let each coat dry fully before applying the next.

Does wood species affect stain coverage?

Yes. Softwoods like pine absorb more stain, reducing coverage. Hardwoods like oak absorb less. End grain absorbs much more than face grain, so seal end grain first or pre-condition with a wood conditioner.

WoodCalcs

Wood Stain Calculator — Coverage Estimator

Calculate how much wood stain you need based on surface area, number of coats, and wood porosity.

Surface Area

Number of Coats

Coverage Rate

Check product data sheet

Price per Litre (optional)

How We Calculate This

Total area = Surface area × Number of coats

Litres needed = Total area ÷ Coverage rate

Coverage rates vary: 12-16 m²/L for smooth timber, 8-10 m²/L for rough or very porous wood. Always check the product data sheet.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Last updated: February 2026

All calculations are estimates. Always verify measurements and material quantities before cutting or purchasing.