What does the Fence Paint Calculator do?

Calculate fence paint or stain needed based on panels, height and number of coats. All calculations are performed in your browser using official UK rates and thresholds.

Does this include delivery costs?

This calculator estimates material quantities and approximate costs. Delivery charges vary by supplier, quantity and location. Bulk orders often qualify for free or reduced delivery.

When is the best time for this project?

Timing depends on the specific project. Generally, spring and autumn are ideal for lawn and planting work, while hard landscaping can be done year-round in dry conditions.

Fence Paint Calculator

Calculate fence paint or stain needed based on panels, height and number of coats.

Last updated: April 2026 · Source: RHS — Fences

Fence Panels

Panel Height (mm)

Panel Width (mm)

Coats

Coverage (m²/litre)

Price (£/litre)

Paint both sides

Paint Needed

8.9L

5L Tins

Fence Area

26.8 m²

Est. Cost

£40.00

Disclaimer

This calculator is provided for informational purposes only and should not be considered as financial or tax advice. All calculations are performed locally in your browser — no personal data is collected or sent to our servers. Rates and thresholds are sourced from HMRC and GOV.UK and are updated for the current tax year. Always verify results with HMRC or consult a qualified professional before making financial decisions.

How It Works

Fence paint or stain coverage depends on the product and the condition of the timber. Most fence paints cover 4–6 m² per litre on rough-sawn timber (which absorbs more) and 8–10 m² per litre on smooth or previously painted timber. Water-based fence paints dry in 1–2 hours; solvent-based treatments take 4–6 hours.

This calculator measures the total fence area: panel height × total run length × number of painted sides (usually one or two). For closeboard or overlap panels, the overlapping boards create extra surface area — the calculator adds 15–20% to account for this. Posts and gravel boards are included as additional area.

Enter fence dimensions, number of sides to paint and number of coats. The calculator shows total area, litres needed and tin sizes. Most UK fence paints are sold in 5 L and 9 L tins. One coat is usually sufficient for maintenance; two coats are recommended for bare or weathered timber for best coverage and longevity.

Example: 12 m fence, 1.8 m panels, one side, 2 coats, rough timber

Panel area: 12 × 1.8 = 21.6 m²
Overlap adjustment (+15%): 24.8 m²
Posts and gravel boards: +3.5 m²
Total area (2 coats): (24.8 + 3.5) × 2 = 56.6 m²
Litres needed: 56.6 ÷ 5 = 11.3 L — buy 2 × 5 L + 1 × 2.5 L or 1 × 9 L + 1 × 5 L

Source: RHS — Fences

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the Fence Paint Calculator do?: Calculate fence paint or stain needed based on panels, height and number of coats. All calculations are performed in your browser using official UK rates and thresholds.
Does this include delivery costs?: This calculator estimates material quantities and approximate costs. Delivery charges vary by supplier, quantity and location. Bulk orders often qualify for free or reduced delivery.
When is the best time for this project?: Timing depends on the specific project. Generally, spring and autumn are ideal for lawn and planting work, while hard landscaping can be done year-round in dry conditions.