- 1). Repair any damage to your deck. Replace rotten or broken planks. Fill any nail holes with wood filler and allow the material to dry completely.
- 2). Sand the surface of the deck. Inadequate sanding will reveal imperfections after the stain has dried. It's important to sand whether your deck is new or old, even if it has been stained before. Sanding is essential for giving the stain a proper surface on which to adhere.
- 3). Sweep and clean the deck's surface. Brush away any dust that has built up on the surface of the deck after sanding. Use a warm, damp cloth to help absorb the dust, then allow the deck to dry. For best results, you can also use a pressure washer to prepare the surface.
- 4). Select a stain specifically designed for outdoor spaces. Look for exterior stains that can withstand the elements and last for a long time.
- 5). Dip a brush or roller into the container of deck stain. Allow the excess to drip off the side of your tool and apply your stain to the deck surface. Start in one corner of the deck, farthest from your exit point. Follow the direction of the grain when applying the stain.
- 6). Allow the stain to dry fully. For best results, apply your stain during the coolest hours of the day, such as in the morning or before dusk. This will help the stain to set into the wood before being evaporated by the sun's rays. To achieve your desired color strength, you may need to apply multiple layers. Apply a layer of sealant over the surface.
Source...