Deck staining cost depends on the size of the deck, how much prep the wood needs, and the type of stain you choose. In Idaho, where decks take strong summer sun and freeze thaw winters, the finish you pick and how well the wood is prepared decide how soon you will need to restain.
In short: Homewyse estimates the national average cost to stain a deck at $3.04 to $6.28 per square foot as of September 2026, for two coats of oil based semi transparent stain with basic prep. Decks that need stripping, sanding, or board repairs cost more.
How much does it cost to stain a deck?
Professional deck staining is usually priced per square foot of deck surface. The Homewyse estimate includes worksite protection, basic preparation, two coats of oil based semi transparent stain, and cleanup. Railings, stairs, and skirting add to the total because they take more time per square foot than flat boards.
| Deck size | Example area | Estimated cost at $3.04 to $6.28 per sq ft |
|---|---|---|
| Small | 150 sq ft | About $456 to $942 |
| Medium | 300 sq ft | About $912 to $1,884 |
| Large | 500 sq ft | About $1,520 to $3,140 |
These examples simply apply the Homewyse per square foot range to common deck sizes. Small jobs may carry a minimum charge, and heavy prep can push a project above the range.
What changes deck staining cost
- Condition of the wood. Weathered gray boards, peeling old stain, or mildew need more cleaning, stripping, or sanding before new stain will soak in.
- Railings, stairs, and spindles. Detailed parts take far longer than flat decking.
- Type of finish. Clear, semi transparent, and solid stains, and paint, all cost differently and last differently.
- Repairs. Loose, cracked, or rotted boards should be replaced before staining.
- Access. Second story decks and decks over landscaping need more protection and setup.
Deck stain vs paint: which is better?
Stain soaks into the wood and lets the grain show. Paint forms a film on top that hides the grain and imperfections. On our deck and fence painting service we work with three main options:
- Oil based stains: penetrate deep into the grain for rich color and strong moisture resistance. Best for older wood and high exposure decks.
- Water based stains: fast drying, low odor, and easy to maintain, with good UV resistance. Best for newer wood and quick refreshes.
- Acrylic paints: full coverage in any color that hides imperfections. Best when the wood is in rough shape or you want a bold look.
Paint on walking surfaces can show wear in high traffic paths, so some homeowners stain the deck boards and paint the railings.
Prep is where deck staining succeeds or fails
New stain only lasts if it can soak into clean, open wood. That usually means washing the deck to remove dirt, mildew, and old loose finish, letting it dry completely, and sanding or stripping where the old coating has failed. Our guide to pressure washing in the Treasure Valley explains the cleaning step.
Weather matters too. Stain and paint need dry wood and the right temperature to cure, so the best season in the Treasure Valley runs from about April through October. Our guide to exterior paint temperature in Idaho covers the details.
How often should you restain a deck in Idaho?
There is no single schedule, because sun exposure, foot traffic, and the type of stain all change how fast a finish wears. Decks that face south or west in full sun usually need attention sooner than shaded ones. Watch for these signs:
- Water no longer beads on the surface and soaks in quickly.
- The color has faded or the wood is turning gray.
- The finish is peeling or worn through in traffic paths.
Fences, pergolas, and other outdoor wood
The same products and prep apply to fences, pergolas, sheds, and barns, and combining them with a deck in one visit can lower the deck staining cost per square foot. For fences, see our guide to fence painting and staining in Caldwell.
Get a deck staining estimate
Most of our deck and fence projects are completed in one to three days, using products from Sherwin-Williams, Benjamin Moore, and BEHR. We serve Caldwell, Nampa, Meridian, Boise, and Eagle with free onsite estimates and no surprise pricing. Request a free deck staining estimate, and for whole home budgets see the cost to paint a house in Boise.
Frequently asked questions about deck staining cost
How much does it cost to stain a deck per square foot?
Homewyse estimates $3.04 to $6.28 per square foot as of September 2026, for two coats of oil based semi transparent stain with basic preparation. Heavy prep, stripping, and repairs cost extra.
How much does it cost to stain a 300 square foot deck?
Applying the Homewyse range, a 300 square foot deck would cost roughly $912 to $1,884 to stain. Railings, stairs, and the condition of the wood can move the price up.
Is it better to stain or paint a deck?
Stain is often preferred for deck boards because it soaks into the wood and lets the grain show. Paint hides imperfections and offers any color, which can make sense for railings or very weathered wood.
Do you need to pressure wash a deck before staining?
The deck needs to be clean and dry before staining. Washing removes dirt, mildew, and loose old finish so the new stain can soak in. The wood must dry completely afterward.
When is the best time to stain a deck in Idaho?
The best season in the Treasure Valley is roughly April through October, on dry days with moderate temperatures and no rain in the forecast.
How long does deck staining take?
Most of our residential deck and fence projects take one to three days, depending on the size of the deck, the prep needed, and drying time between coats.
How much does deck stainning cost?
Deck stainning typically costs about $3.04 to $6.28 per square foot according to Homewyse, depending on prep and the type of stain.
Sources consulted
- Homewyse: Cost to Stain Deck
- Lagunas Painting: Deck and Fence Painting