What is the Easiest Way to Stain a Deck? 5/5 (1)

This post was updated on January 18, 2023

What is the easiest way to apply a deck stain to a deck and which tools to use? This varies on the deck stain type you are using and the brand as well. We will list your best and easiest tool options for applying to each stain type.

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.

How to Apply a Clear Sealer Easily

-Clear deck sealers are very easy to apply. Any of these deck staining tools will work:

  • Pump up Sprayer Best way to spray a clear sealer fast.
  • Deck Stain Pads Best option for vertical rails and siding.
  • Floor Soft Bristle Brush Easiest option for floors and horizontals.
  • Brushes Can be messy if the sealer is thin in consistency.
  • Rollers Clear sealers can splatter when applied.

How to Apply a Semi-Transparent Wood Stain Easily

-Transparent and semi-transparent sealers are relatively easy to apply but they can vary based on the brand. Some brands are thicker than others. The thicker the stain, the less chance you will be able to use a pump sprayer and may need to use a roller over a floor brush.

  • Pump up Sprayer Best way to spray a semi-transparent stain fast. Always back wipe drips and runs to ensure it is applied evenly.
  • Professional Airless Paint Sprayer Very easy to apply but watch overspray.
  • Deck Stain Pads Best option for vertical rails and siding.
  • Floor Soft Bristle Brush Easiest option for floors and horizontals.
  • Brushes Can be drippy if the stain is thin in consistency.
  • Rollers Semi-transparent stains can splatter when applied.

How to Apply a Semi-Solid Deck Stain Easily

-Semi-Solid Deck Stains are much thicker and can hide the wood grain. Application varies based on if oil-based or water-based and how thick the viscosity of the stain.

  • Professional Airless Paint Sprayer Best options for fast application.
  • Floor Soft Bristle Brush Easiest option for floors if oil-based. Will not work well for water-based semi-solid stains.
  • Brushes Best option for vertical rails and siding.
  • Rollers Used for deck flooring and horizontals.

How to Apply an Opaque Solid Color Deck Stain Easily

-Solid color deck stains can only be applied with the tools below.

  • Professional Airless Paint Sprayer Best options for fast application.
  • Brushes Used for vertical rails and siding.
  • Rollers Used for deck flooring and horizontals.

More Info on Easiest Way to Stain a Deck

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