Finding the right time to stain your deck will ensure you get the best results. Most stains take at least 24 hours to cure fully, and oil-based stains can take up to 72 hours, so try to find time in the week when you will have a couple of days of good weather before staining. Avoid staining your deck at midday or in direct sunlight to prevent flash curing, which will have a blotchy appearance and shorten the stain's longevity. Conversely, staining your deck when it's too humid will slow the curing process and negatively affect stain adhesion.

Before applying deck stain, make sure your deck is clean. Use a tack cloth to remove any dust or debris that could affect a smooth finish when staining. You'll also need to confirm the wood is ready to be stained by sprinkling water on the deck. If the droplets sink in, the deck is ready to be stained.

There's no one right way to stain a deck. Different combinations of tools can help you achieve a similar, long-lasting result. The tools you use come down to preference and skill level. 

A brush is best for applying stain to tight spaces and achieving a smooth finish on smaller areas because it allows excellent stain application control. However, staining an entire deck with a paintbrush can be laborious, so it's typically used with another staining method designed to cover a large area, like an airless sprayer or a roller. When using a paintbrush for stains, opt for a natural bristle brush for oil-based stains and synthetic bristle brushes for water-based stains.  

Rollers are ideal for staining large, flat deck surfaces and for quick, even coverage. Rollers are a common application method because they are beginner-friendly and allow for controlled application. You'll need a roller with an ¼-inch nap for best results. A roller with a 3/8- to ½-inch nap may also work for rougher decks. Don't forget to add an extension pole to your roller frame so you can stand more comfortably while you stain.

Staining pads are similar to rollers in that they can quickly stain your deck while offering even product distribution. However, their ability to reach small crevices on railings and stain between deck board gaps sets staining pads apart. Like rollers, you can add an extension pole to minimize back strain while staining.

Airless sprayers provide frictionless coverage 10x faster than using a brush or roller. While this method is by far the fastest way to apply deck stain, it does require practice to avoid uneven coverage. It may also need more prep time to ensure you don't get deck stain on your home, nearby shrubbery or other surfaces. For a smooth result, this method will also require a paintbrush.

When staining a deck, there are a couple of pointers to keep in mind to ensure even coverage. This is important because uneven coverage could lead to uneven wear over time.

• Work with the Grain—Always apply stain with the grain for a seamless look.
• Maintain a wet edge—Similar to applying paint, slight stroke overlap prevents lap marks between where the stain ends and where the next stroke begins.
• Back-brush—This is an important step if you are spray-staining your deck. After spraying the stain, brush your work to ensure a smooth finish.
• Wipe away excess stain—For a professional finish, wipe up any excess stain to avoid uneven drying or a sticky surface.
• Don't apply a second coat too soon—If you need or want a second coat of stain for a deeper look, wait at least four hours between coats.