The copied URL contains your inputs so you can reopen or share the same scenario.
Switching units also converts the numbers you have entered.
Measure the deck length and depth. Subtract cut-outs like planters or hatches.
Split L-shapes or steps into rectangles. Add rows for each zone.
Already know the paintable deck area? Enter it directly and skip deck/railing details.
Area mode disables deck type, surface detail, gap, and railing inputs because the area is taken as-is.
Processing stays in your browser. Start with the sample values and adjust before ordering paint.
Net area applies your surface detail factor, board gap, and added railing area.
Deck paint workflow
Use this page to estimate paintable deck or terrace area, convert ft/m units, and turn coverage settings into gallons or liters before buying primer, stain, or topcoat.
How it works
The calculator starts with a rectangle, multiple zones, or a known area. It subtracts cut-outs, adjusts for board gaps and surface detail, adds railing or trim area, then applies coats, waste allowance, primer settings, and coverage overrides from the paint label.
When to use
Use it for decks, patios, concrete terraces, tile terraces, and small railing/trim additions where you need a material estimate before shopping. For detailed fence pickets or whole-house costs, open the linked paint calculators.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Leaving board gap above zero for concrete or tile surfaces.
- Counting railing area twice when it was already included in a known-area estimate.
- Using topcoat coverage for primer even when the can lists a different spread rate.
- Ordering exactly the raw volume without waste allowance or can-size rounding.
Worked estimate check
For a 6 m by 3 m deck with 10% board gaps, 1.8 m² of railing, two topcoats, and 12% waste, review the net paintable area first. Then compare suggested cans with the coverage printed on the product you plan to use.
See also
Notes & FAQ
How should I estimate board gaps?
Most decks use 3–8 mm gaps, which equals about 5–10%. Leave gap at 0% for concrete or tile terraces.
When should I use primer?
Turn on primer for bare wood or porous concrete. For recoats with self-priming paints, disable primer or set coats to 0 if the product label allows.
How do I include railing or steps?
If you know the railing height and run, multiply them and enter the area here. For detailed pickets/rails, estimate in the Fence Paint calculator and paste the paintable area.
Should I order exactly the calculated amount?
No. Keep the waste allowance and can-size rounding in the result, then check whether the product needs extra material for rough boards, end grain, or a third coat.
What if the paint label lists different coverage?
Enter the label coverage in the advanced override fields. Product spread rates vary by substrate, finish, and application method, so label values should override the presets.
Comments
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