Armstrong Clark Stain Calculator
These calculations will help you determine the proper amount of Armstrong Clark stain and prepping supplies needed to refinish your deck or fence. This is intended to provide you with an approximate estimate only. Material requirements may vary according to application method, wood porosity, and weather conditions.
- The AC Deck Stain Calculator estimates gallons needed based on measurements, wood type, condition, and number of coats.
- Hardwood and IPE decking only requires 1 coat because dense exotic woods cannot absorb a second coat without a tacky finish.
- Standard softwood coverage is 150 to 250 sq ft per gallon, while Hardwood/IPE Stain covers 300 to 400 sq ft per gallon.
- Always buy at least 10 to 15 percent more stain than estimated to avoid visible lap marks from running short.
- The AC Fence Stain Calculator handles both sides automatically and typically recommends 2 coats for rough-sawn softwood fences.
AC Deck Stain Calculator
Use the calculator below to estimate how many gallons of Armstrong Clark stain you need for your deck. Enter your measurements and select your wood type and condition for the most accurate estimate.
AC Deck Stain Estimator
Hardwood and IPE decking is too dense to absorb a second coat. Selecting Hardwood/IPE automatically sets the calculator to 1 coat.
AC Fence Stain Calculator
Use the calculator below to estimate how many gallons of Armstrong Clark stain you need for a fence. Click to expand.
Coverage Rate for Armstrong Clark Stains
| Wood Type | Coverage Per Gallon | Coats Recommended | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Deck and Siding Stain | 150 to 250 sq ft | 1 to 2 coats | Applies in direct sun and hot temperatures. Softwoods like cedar, pine, and fir. |
| Hardwood/IPE Stain | 300 to 400 sq ft | 1 coat only | For IPE, mahogany, cumaru, tigerwood, and other exotic hardwoods. Dense wood cannot absorb a second coat. |
For more aged and porous wood you could easily factor in some extra stain. On newer wood that is still smooth and dense, you probably are not going to use as much. It is better to buy more than you need than to not have enough. You can always save leftover stain for the next maintenance cycle.
If you have questions, please ask below.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Armstrong Clark Stain Calculator
How many gallons of Armstrong Clark stain do I need for a 300 square foot deck?
For a 300 square foot softwood deck floor using two coats at 150 to 250 square feet per gallon per coat, plan on 2 to 4 gallons. For hardwood or IPE decking at 300 to 400 square feet per gallon with only 1 coat, plan on 1 gallon. Add extra if you are also staining railings and steps.
Why does hardwood or IPE decking only need one coat?
Hardwoods like IPE, mahogany, cumaru, and tigerwood are extremely dense and do not absorb stain the way softer woods do. A second coat will sit on the surface instead of penetrating, leading to a tacky or uneven finish. One coat is sufficient and recommended for all exotic hardwood species.
How much stain does a gallon of Armstrong Clark cover?
Standard Armstrong Clark Deck and Siding Stain covers 150 to 250 square feet per gallon on softwoods like cedar, pine, and fir. The Hardwood/IPE Stain covers 300 to 400 square feet per gallon since exotic hardwoods absorb far less product. Coverage varies based on wood porosity and age.
Do I need to buy the Hardwood/IPE Stain separately, or is it the same product?
Armstrong Clark’s Amber, Mahogany, and Semi-Trans Black Walnut colors are the same formula whether used on softwood or hardwood decking. There is no separate “hardwood version” of the stain itself. The Hardwood/IPE product line is priced and packaged for the lower coverage rate that exotic hardwoods require, but the stain colors are shared across both softwood and hardwood applications.
How much extra Armstrong Clark stain should I buy?
Buy at least 10 to 15 percent more than your calculated estimate. Wood porosity varies board to board, and running short mid-project can leave visible lap marks. Unused, unopened stain can typically be stored for future maintenance coats if sealed properly.
Can I use this calculator for a fence stained with Armstrong Clark?
Yes, use the separate AC Fence Stain Calculator above. Enter the length of one side only and select whether you are staining both sides — the calculator automatically doubles the square footage if needed. Fences are typically rough-sawn softwood and usually need 2 coats unless the fence is a hardwood species.
