How much does a five-gallon bucket of stain cover?

• <div><p>A five-gallon bucket of deck stain will cover roughly 875 square feet in a single coat. Actual coverage will vary based on the type of wood you’re staining and the number of coats. If you plan on doing multiple coats, multiply the square footage by the number of coats to calculate how many buckets of stain you’ll need.</p></div>

Get matched with top deck staining pros in Valley City, ND

Q: What costs are associated with exterior painting or staining?

• <div><p>Pricing depends on prep work, paint/stain choice, area size, scaffolding needs, and detailed trim inclusions like precision-balanced windowsills.</p></div>

Q: What happens if an oil-based stain gets wet?

• <div><p>Stains penetrate wood best when it's cool and dry, so you want to avoid moisture. If the wood is wet upon application, or if it rains before the stain dries, the water will soak into the wood and displace the staining solution. This leads to a flaky and blotchy look, which is the opposite of a sumptuous even coat. Once the stain has fully cured, after about 3 days, rain shouldn&rsquo;t cause you any problems.</p></div>

Q: Do limewash and whitewash harm surfaces?

• <div><p>Limewash and whitewash do not harm surfaces if you apply them correctly. Use on non-suitable surfaces can cause issues. For instance, applying limewash or whitewash to surfaces with existing sealants or incompatible materials may lead to poor adhesion or flaking. Also, harsh cleaning agents on limewashed or whitewashed surfaces can damage the finish. Proper preparation, application, and maintenance ensure that limewash and whitewash do not harm surfaces. </p></div>

Q: Should decks be painted or stained?

• <div><p>Whether to paint or stain a deck depends on your personal preference for appearance and budget. Stain provides a natural look with a range of undertones, is typically less expensive, and may only require one coat, but it does not last as long as paint. Paint offers a sleeker finish with a virtually unlimited color palette. Both options will protect your deck from outdoor elements like rain, snow, and general wear and tear.</p></div>

Enter your zip and get matched with up to 5 pros

Need a pro for your deck staining project in Valley City, ND?

Select your specific project to find the pro for you.

Verified Reviews for Deck Staining pros in Valley City, ND

*The Angi rating for Deck Staining companies in Valley City, ND is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Deck Staining needs.

*The HomeAdvisor rating for Deck Staining companies in Valley City, ND is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Deck Staining needs.

Last update on May 21, 2026

Reviewed in May 2026
Alli was very polite, professional with her presentation it was very informative, she made me feel very comfortable
DaBella - Fargo (Roofing/Windows)
Request a quote
Reviewed in November 2025
Great work by mad city windows and bath - can be some expensive work but definitely worth it knowing you have a lifetime warranty in case anything goes wrong
Mad City Windows & Baths
Request a quote
Reviewed in August 2025
After receiving a fair bid for tree and stump removal, Johnny B's crew completed the task and left my lot smooth and clean so I was able to mow the grass in the area the next day.
Johhny B's Trees and Service
Request a quote
Reviewed in November 2023
Our church hired Ace Plumbing to do remodeling or our sanctuary, offices, fellowship hall, bathrooms, kitchen, and much more. His work has been top-notch. We will continue to utilize Ace Plumbing!
Ace Plumbing
Request a quote
Reviewed in May 2023
The deck started peeling. Peak Pro Painting is willing to work with us and the new owned of the house to resolve the issue.
Peak Pro Painting
Request a quote
Reviewed in May 2023
We had some issues with the deck peeling. Peak Pro Painting is willing to work with us and the new owner to resolve the issue. Much appreciated!
Peak Professional Painting, LLC
Request a quote
Reviewed in February 2023
I was visiting my GrandMother and spotted some Mold in her Bathroom and in her Bedroom. I called Stephen and he came out right away. The professionalism he had was out of this world. He walked me through everything in a manner we could understand. I would recommend this company of 1-800 WATER...
SM Kerley, LLC
Request a quote
Reviewed in October 2021
Hard working, polite, An honest contractor.
MBF Drain Tile Systems, LLC
Request a quote
Reviewed in October 2021
Midas Remodeling is fabulous A+++ We needed a total reroof on our home and before the winter rains. Jason (owner) is friendly, knows his roofing and his staff are friendly and easy to work with. The roofing crew were friendly, knowledgeable, efficient and respectful of the property. Thank you...
Midas Remodeling, LLC
Request a quote
Reviewed in December 2020
Great. Very professional, polite and clean. Work is done in a timely manner. Very satisfied.
High Plains Water, Inc.
Request a quote

Find Deck staining pros in Valley City

Welcome Home Moving Services

5.0(

)

Exterior Home or Structure - Paint or StainExterior Home or Structure - Paint or Stain: LargeExterior Home or Structure - Paint or Stain: Medium

Serving Valley City, ND and surrounding areas

In business since 2020

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"Tanya and her crew are professional and get the job done."

Recommended by100%of homeowners

Request Quote

Hampton Enterprise LLC

3.7(

)

Exterior Home or Structure - Paint or StainExterior Home or Structure - Paint or Stain: LargeExterior Home or Structure - Paint or Stain: Medium

Serving Valley City, ND and surrounding areas

In business since 1989

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"I only use James when I need some work done to my house. He responds fast, gets the work done quicker than just about anyone else I've ever used and seems very concerned with leaving his customers happy."

Recommended by60%of homeowners

Request Quote

J&J Painting and Drywalls

3.0(

)

Exterior Home or Structure - Paint or Stain: LargeExterior Home or Structure - Paint or Stain: Medium

Serving Valley City, ND and surrounding areas

In business since 2014

Free estimates

"They're amazing he exceeded his job I have recommended him my sister I am very satisfied with the work he did. He went above and beyond to help me."

Response time5 hrs

Recommended by100%of homeowners

Request Quote

Deck Staining questions, answered by experts

Pricing depends on prep work, paint/stain choice, area size, scaffolding needs, and detailed trim inclusions like precision-balanced windowsills.

A five-gallon bucket of deck stain will cover roughly 875 square feet in a single coat. Actual coverage will vary based on the type of wood you’re staining and the number of coats. If you plan on doing multiple coats, multiply the square footage by the number of coats to calculate how many buckets of stain you’ll need.

Stains penetrate wood best when it's cool and dry, so you want to avoid moisture. If the wood is wet upon application, or if it rains before the stain dries, the water will soak into the wood and displace the staining solution. This leads to a flaky and blotchy look, which is the opposite of a sumptuous even coat. Once the stain has fully cured, after about 3 days, rain shouldn’t cause you any problems.

Limewash and whitewash do not harm surfaces if you apply them correctly. Use on non-suitable surfaces can cause issues. For instance, applying limewash or whitewash to surfaces with existing sealants or incompatible materials may lead to poor adhesion or flaking. Also, harsh cleaning agents on limewashed or whitewashed surfaces can damage the finish. Proper preparation, application, and maintenance ensure that limewash and whitewash do not harm surfaces.

Whether to paint or stain a deck depends on your personal preference for appearance and budget. Stain provides a natural look with a range of undertones, is typically less expensive, and may only require one coat, but it does not last as long as paint. Paint offers a sleeker finish with a virtually unlimited color palette. Both options will protect your deck from outdoor elements like rain, snow, and general wear and tear.

The Valley City, ND homeowners’ guide to deck staining services

From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.

See all articles

Deane Biermeier
•
May 3, 2026May 3, 2026
How Much Does It Cost to Stain a Deck? [2026 Data]
The cost to stain a deck varies depending on its size, location, and type of stain. Keep reading to learn more about how much you might spend.
Scott Dylan Westerlund
•
May 30, 2026May 30, 2026
How Much Does Deck Replacement or Repair Cost? [2026 Data]
Deck replacement costs depend on materials, any structural damage you need to fix, and more. This guide explores how much it costs to replace or repair a deck.
Deirdre Sullivan
•
May 5, 2026May 5, 2026
5 Deck Stain Problems and How to Fix Them
Don’t let deck stain problems steal the spotlight from your outdoor space. Here is how to fix these issues before your next backyard party.
Erica Lamberg
•
May 3, 2026May 3, 2026
How Often to Stain Your Deck and When to Do It
The best time to stain a deck is when it’s dry but not too sunny. How often you restain a deck depends on climate and wood type, but every two to three years is normal.
Deirdre Sullivan
•
May 2, 2026May 2, 2026
What Are the Pros and Cons of Staining a Deck?
A well-stained deck is beautiful and durable. Dive into the pros and cons of staining a deck to help your outdoor oasis stand the test of time.
Angi
•
May 21, 2026May 21, 2026
Who to Hire for Deck Staining and Painting Services
Not sure who to hire for deck staining and painting? Learn which pros to call, how they work, and how to choose the right fit.