Staining a deck is essential for maintaining its appearance and longevity, especially in areas with harsh weather conditions like New York. The cost to stain a deck professionally ranges from $1.50–$4.00 per square foot, with additional factors potentially increasing this cost. For a standard 300 ft² deck, expect to pay between $450 and $1,000, with premium options adding $300–$500.
• Extends lumber life by sealing out moisture and UV rays
• Restores color and grain dulled by weather
• Increases resale value and curb appeal
• Reduces long-term maintenance costs compared to full replacement
Most professionals charge between $1.50 and $4.00 per square foot for staining a pressure-treated pine deck. Cedar and composite materials, or additional complexities, can increase costs to $5.50 per square foot.
• Labor: 55–65% of total cost
• Materials: 25–30% for stain, cleaners, and sundries
• Surface Prep: 10–15% for washing, sanding, and minor repairs
1. Deck Size – More square footage requires more materials and labor.
2. Wood Condition – Additional prep time for sanding or board replacement.
3. Railing Complexity – Increases labor for detailed work.
4. Elevation – Higher decks require more safety measures.
5. Stain Type – Semi-transparent stains are less expensive than solid-color acrylics.
6. Access & Landscaping – Limited access can slow down the process.
7. Seasonal Timing – Peak seasons can increase labor rates.
Use the CountBricks app to simplify the estimating process. Walk around the deck and speak naturally; our AI measures and calculates costs in real time, providing:
• Live material costs
• Auto-calculated labor hours
• Suggested surface-prep allowances
• Optional add-ons
• Shareable quote documents
• Power-washing & Brightening: $50
• Light Hand Sanding: $40
• Stain (3 gallons @ $30): $100
• Application Labor (12 hrs @ $20): $400
• Cleanup & Disposal: $20
Total: $800 or $2.50/ft²
DIY Savings: Potentially save 40–50% on labor, but equipment costs and errors can reduce savings.
Professional Advantage: Professionals ensure even coverage and warranty their work, completing tasks efficiently.
• Schedule staining in late summer for off-peak rates.
• Opt for semi-transparent stains to reduce coats.
• Bundle repairs to avoid additional fees.
• Use CountBricks.com to compare material options before approving estimates.
The Jameson family used CountBricks to estimate costs for their 350 ft² deck. The AI identified necessary board replacements and provided a detailed cost breakdown, projecting a two-day completion.
• Demo & Board Replacement: $300
• Surface Prep & Sanding: $150
• Premium Water-Based Solid Stain (4 gal): $200
• Labor (20 hrs): $700
Total Project Cost: $1,200 or $4.00/ft²
• Test color on an inconspicuous board.
• Spray first, then back-brush.
• Stain two boards at a time.
• Keep stain cans shaded.
• Log dimensions in the CountBricks app for future reference.
Whether you're a DIY enthusiast or a contractor, CountBricks streamlines your workflow:
1. Capture voice notes for scoped tasks.
2. Adjust estimates in the dashboard.
3. Send proposals directly from CountBricks.com.
4. Generate progress invoices easily.
