1. Check for any loose nails, or screws. Make sure that all the hardware and screws are in place, and that there are no loose boards and nails.
2. Clean the deck. If you want to use a pressure washer for this job make sure you use a fan type of nozzle. We tried that once, with a regular nozzle and it was really bad for the wood. With all the pressure it just shreds the wood. Another option, if you don’t have a pressure washer is to use a cleaner that is made specifically for a deck. Thompson’s Deck Wash ($10, 1 gal. covers 250 sq. ft.), you mix in a bucket and apply to the deck.
Let the deck dry.
3. Apply the stain. The grain still shows through, but the pigment gives the old wood a clean, uniform color and helps the new wood blend in. Uin. brush to apply the stain. Spraying is fast, and puts more stain on the wood than rolling or brushing. It’s best to spray on a generous coat of stain and then following up with a roller or brush to spread out puddles and work the finish into the wood. You can use a piece of cardboard when spraying near the house to avoid overspray on your house. It’s best to start by the house, and work your way out.
4.