Can deck stains be applied with a roller?

Yes, some deck stains can be applied with a roller, but not all. Both oil-based and water-based solid color deck stains can be applied quickly with a roller. Solid deck stains do not allow the wood grain to show through. Using rollers incorrectly can cause splatter, but solid stains don’t show this like other deck stains.

How do you apply other types of deck stains?

There are many other types of deck stains, including:

semi-solid that allows some wood grain to show through
semi-transparent deck stains to bring out the natural beauty of the wood
transparent and clear stains that only protect and seal the wood without changing its appearance

These stains are best applied with deck stain pads or brushes. Other options include pump-up sprayers and specifically designed deck stain applicators.

More information on how to apply deck stain with a roller

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.

Please Rate This. You may also post comments or ask questions below.

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.

See Full Bio