What is the Best Way to Stain a Deck?

Deck stains come in a variety of different types such as:

Solid Color Opaque Stains
Semi-Solid Deck Stains
Semi-Transparent Deck Stains
Transparent Deck Stains
Oil-Based Stains
Water-Based stains

There is not a simple answer as to what is the best way to stain your deck without knowing the type of stain and yes, even the brand of stain.

Best Way to Stain My Deck?

Need help finding the best way to stain your deck? We are here to help! Just let us know in the comments below the answer to these simple questions, and will let you know the best way to stain and which application tools will work best for you, making your deck staining easier and faster!

Deck Stain Brand Name
Deck Stain Type. Examples: Transparent, Semi-Transparent, Semi-Solid, Solid Color
Water-Based or Oil-Based

More Info on Best Way to Stain a Deck

For more info, see our Deck Stain Facts section with over 150 simple Q&A articles that answer all the questions that you have regarding deck staining, cleaning, and prep.

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Scott Paul ~ Restoring Wood & Decks Since 1993 Owner

As an article and comment contributor to the site, Scott has been around the pressure washing industry since attending college. In 1993 he started his first company called Oakland Pressure Wash specializing in exterior pressure washing and deck staining. That company evolved into OPW L.L.C. shortly thereafter concentrating more on exterior wood and deck restoration. Scott and his Deck Cleaning Michigan company have restored over 10,000 decks in the Metro Detroit area since the early years. He has become an authority in the deck restoration industry and has contributed to numerous wood restoration forums and informative sites. All the products he suggests through this site are sold through online sites and in retail stores, allowing the consumer to choose their own means of purchase. Scott’s eCommerce sites do sell many top brands he endorses and if you appreciate any of the help he has offered then feel free to purchase from one of them.

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Lisa

1 year ago

Last year I purchased Siberian Larch for my replacement deck wood. I have kept it inside the garage for several months, then stored it in my basement for the winter, with it being taken back out to the garage where is has sat for another 3 months. It is a heavy (deep) grain 1″ thick 5.5″width (16′ lengths). I wanted to stain prior to installation on all sides.

I read that you do not recommend pre-staining, before assembling, why?

With the deep grain, is a brush or pad better?