Selecting the right stain applicator for your deck project is paramount for ensuring a smooth and even finish, maximizing efficiency, and conserving both time and resources. On the other hand, opting for an unsuitable stain applicator can result in an unsatisfactory outcome, increased expenses for rectification, and extended periods for drying.
So in this guide, I explored the market to help you find the best deck stain applicators to keep your decking in tiptop shape. Keep reading to know my best finds!
Reviews of the Top Deck Stain Applicators
1. Wooster Brush RR412-10 Shearling Floor Applicator
When staining decks, it’s essential to use an applicator to finish the job efficiently and effectively. That’s why this Wooster Brush RR412-10 Shearling Floor Applicator is a preferred stain applicator by most woodworkers, as it delivers a smoother finish faster than other brands.
It has unique material made of 100% lambskin, suitable for all wood stains and finishes. It’s very absorbent and holds adequate stains, allowing you to cover a bigger area in just one stroke.
It’s designed with a pre-drilled extension pole compatible with a standard mop handle. Using this feature will surely make staining your deck less tiring and more comfortable
What I Like
- The applicator is designed to resist shedding, ensuring a smooth and clean application without leaving any unwanted fibers or debris on the deck surface.
- Crafted from high-quality pure lambskin
- Pre-drilled extension pole design
- Uniform coverage
- This applicator can be used with a variety of stains
- Works with various types of surfaces
What I Don't Like
- Requires tedious cleaning preparation
- Extension poles should be bought separately
2. Wagner Spraytech Paint Sprayer 0529091 FLEXiO 5000
Now, if you’re looking for a stain applicator to finish bigger projects faster, this paint sprayer from Wagner Spraytech is what you need. It’s ideal for applying superior stains on your decks, furniture, ceilings, floors, and walls.
The Wagner Spraytech Paint Sprayer 0529091 FLEXiO 5000 has a portable paint application system, so you can put down the turbine and keep the heavy weight on the ground to reduce fatigue, especially for bigger projects.
It comes with two spray nozzles suitable for different spray patterns, such as vertical, horizontal, and round, which are excellent for a detailed finish. Although it’s better for big projects, it comes with a nozzle suitable for staining smaller areas.
What I Like
- Suitable for big and small projects
- Adjustable spray settings
- This applicator is designed for easy cleanup, allowing you to wash and reuse it for multiple projects
- The design of the applicator ensures ease of use, providing a comfortable grip and efficient application process.
- Nozzles are included
- The stain applicator is compact and easy to transport
What I Don't Like
- More expensive than other stain applicators
- The hose is shorter
3. Mr. Long Arm 350 Woodmates Stain Applicator
If you’re tackling a project with budget constraints and seeking a cost-effective stain applicator that provides a smoother finish, the Woodmates stain applicator is the ideal choice for you.
The Mr. Long Arm 350 Woodmates Stain Applicator has a 12-inch applicator lets you cover two boards in a single stroke, making the application faster and more efficient. It can also hold more stains, so one coat is sufficient to protect your wood.
Another feature I like about this product is its applicator is conveniently replaceable, as its loop and hook system makes it simpler to replace the pads. So, you can easily remove the pad, clean it, then reuse it.
What I Like
- More affordable compared to other brands
- Can hold and distribute more stain
- The applicator features pads that can be easily replaced, ensuring long-lasting use
- Easy to clean and reuse
- The applicator is designed to be durable and resistant to tearing
What I Don't Like
- The body has plastic material
- It tends to swivel while in use
4. Purdy 140624022 Roller Replacements
The Purdy 140624022 Roller Replacements are made of high-quality polyester fabric suitable for all stains. Due to its material, it can absorb more moisture, so you can also use it to prepare the wood surface for staining.
When applying stains on your deck, this roller is a great choice, especially for your old decks that require more stain.
It’s highly absorbent and can hold large amounts of stains, allowing a uniform application in just one stroke, even on a rough surface. Although it may not fully cover the edges, you still need to use a paintbrush.
What I Like
- Can hold and distribute a large amount of stain
- Effective on older decks, helping to revitalize the wood and bring back its natural beauty
- Suitable for rough wood surfaces
- The stain applicator is versatile and can be used with a variety of finishes, including transparent, semi-transparent, and solid stains, as well as sealers.
What I Don't Like
- More difficult to clean
- Not suitable around edges
5. Perdura Deck BOSS GGE061 Deck Stain Brush Applicator
Produced by a reliable brand, the Perdura Deck BOSS GGE061 Deck Stain Brush Applicator is simply one of the most durable and effective stain applicators on the market.
It absorbs a large quantity of stain and distributes evenly on the wood surface, covering a bigger area in one stroke. It can also reach and easily cover even the cracks and crevices of your deck floor.
This brush can significantly reduce half of your stain application time compared to using pads and rollers. It is even better than a stain sprayer, as this brush can cover hard-to-reach areas. Although it is more expensive, it’s reusable, so you can save more in the long run.
What I Like
- It can covers big areas in lesser time
- It can cover hard-to-reach areas
- Works for all types of surfaces
- The stain applicator is designed to be compatible with extension poles
What I Don't Like
- More expensive than other brands
- Not ideal for small areas
6. Mr. Long Arm 360 Woodmates Contour Stain Applicator
This is another excellent product from Woodmates that is designed for the contours and crevices of your deck. The Mr. Long Arm 360 Woodmates Contour Stain Applicator has the effectiveness of a stain pad and the maneuverability of a hand brush.
It’s flexible in applying stain in tight areas and gives you total control if you need detailed strokes on some of your deck. It’s designed with a comfortable, non-slip grip section, reducing hand fatigue.
It’s also durable and resists wear and tear as it’s made of high-quality material. But if you need a new applicator, you can simply replace the foam pads, as it’s also equipped with a loop and hook system.
What I Like
- It's constructed with high-quality materials that enhance its durability.
- It has replaceable foam pads
- This applicator is designed for contour areas
- It can hold a large quantity of stains
What I Don't Like
- Tends to leave drips
- Not suitable for some thin stains
7. Cabot 140.0000061.000 4" Wood Stain Brush
Now, this stain brush from Cabot is one of the best deck stain applicators you can find in the market today.
The Cabot 140.0000061.000 4″ Wood Stain Brush is built with sturdy construction, allowing it to withstand frequent use and last for a long time. It has an ergonomic handle that provides a comfortable grip, reducing hand fatigue during extended periods of use.
It comes with a 4-inch width brush that enables you to cover a larger surface area with each stroke, making it an efficient tool for staining large wood surfaces. This brush has high-quality bristles that can hold and distribute the stain evenly, resulting in a smooth and consistent finish.
What I Like
- Ergonomic handle design
- The design of the stain applicator ensures that it is comfortable to hold and use
- Soft bristle that distributes the stain evenly
- The stain applicator is designed with user convenience in mind
What I Don't Like
- Not suitable on rough wood surface
- Not reusable
8. Trimaco 10102 SuperTuff Sponge
Another affordable option yet high-quality staining pad that’s popular among many woodworkers is this SuperTuff Sponge from Trimaco.
It’s a versatile, multi-purpose sponge with a high absorption capacity suitable for staining or cleaning your deck. It comes in a convenient size that fits comfortably in your hand, allowing for easy and precise application.
The Trimaco 10102 SuperTuff Sponge has a non-abrasive surface that is gentle on wood surfaces, distributing stains evenly without leaving any marks on the surface. This product is surely a great value for your money, as it’s made from durable materials that can endure frequent use, ensuring that it will last for a long time.
What I Like
- Cheaper compared to other stain applicators
- This stain applicator is highly absorbent
- It's a multi-purpose stain applicator
- Suitable for all types of surfaces
What I Don't Like
- Hard to clean
- Not ideal for big areas
Deck Stain Applicators Buyer’s Guide
It’s important to choose the right stain applicator for your deck as it can significantly affect the outcome of your staining project. Using the right applicator will ensure the stain is applied evenly, allowing for consistent color and finish.
Therefore, you must be meticulous in choosing the appropriate stain applicator for your deck, as this is essential to ensure a beautiful and long-lasting finish. Below are the most important factors you must consider in buying a stain applicator for your decks:
Material Quality
One of the most important factors that you must consider when buying a stain applicator for your deck is the quality of material used. This is because a stain applicator made of high-quality material can help you apply the finish more smoothly and evenly.
High-quality materials, such as synthetic bristles or foam, will hold more stain and release it more evenly, allowing for better coverage and lesser drips or runs.
Also, the quality of your stain applicator can impact how much stain you need to use. A low-quality applicator may absorb more stains, requiring you to use more finishes to achieve the desired coverage. This can result in higher costs and more waste.
Additionally, a high-quality applicator is more durable and can last longer, allowing you to reuse it for future staining projects. In the long run, this can save you time and money, as you will not need to replace worn-out or damaged applicators constantly.
Consequently, using a stain applicator made of low-quality material can damage your deck. For instance, a low-quality brush with stiff bristles can scratch the surface of your deck, leading to an unattractive finish and may cause long-term damage.
Size of the Deck
Choosing a stain applicator based on the size of your deck is important to ensure that the job is done efficiently and effectively. This will help you ensure that the application process is done correctly and you can deliver results on time.
When buying a stain applicator for small decks or areas, a brush or a small foam roller can be your most appropriate choice. These applicators provide good control and precision suitable for detailed work. They’re easy to handle and maneuver, making them a good choice for smaller areas.
Meanwhile, a larger foam roller or a medium-sized brush is ideal if you’re staining a medium-sized deck. These applicators are more effective and efficient than smaller ones. They can provide good control and precision, allowing a smooth and even finish.
On the other hand, if you’re staining a large deck, you will be needing a larger foam roller, a sprayer, or a staining pad. These applicators can cover larger areas quickly and efficiently, making them a good choice for larger projects.
However, they may require more preparation and cleanup than smaller applicators. They also cost more than the smaller and simple paintbrushes but can save you more time to finish your project.
Condition of the Deck
Essentially, the condition of the surface of your deck will greatly impact the type of applicator you should buy. Therefore, you must choose a stain applicator based on the condition of your deck to ensure that you achieve a smoother and more beautiful finish.
If your deck is new or well-maintained, it has a smooth surface that will work well with a foam roller or a synthetic bristle brush. These applicators will provide a smooth and even finish and are less likely to leave brush marks or streaks.
But, if your deck is older or weathered with a rough or textured surface, a natural bristle brush or a stain pad can be the best choice. These applicators can penetrate the textured surface of the wood and ensure that the stain is applied evenly.
Meanwhile, it’s better to use a small brush or a stain pad if your deck has cracks or crevices, such as in-between deck boards, underneath railings, or in-between posts.
These applicators can help you apply the stain evenly and thoroughly to all deck parts, including tight spaces or areas.
Your Skill and Experience
Practically, you should consider your skill level and experience when choosing a stain applicator for your deck.
You must remember that different stain applicators require different skill levels and experience for efficient and effective use. Consequently, using a stain applicator that is too advanced for your skill level can result in a poor finish or even damage your deck.
Generally, if you are a beginner, choosing a simpler applicator like a roller or brush is best. These stain applicators are easier to control and require less effective techniques.
As you gain more experience, consider upgrading to a more advanced stain applicator, like a sprayer, if you already feel comfortable using it.
To test if the stain applicator is appropriate for your skill level and experience, use it on a small area of your deck before applying it to the entire surface. This will help you understand how the applicator works and ensure you can achieve the desired finish.
Ease of Use
When choosing the best deck stain applicator, it is important to consider the ease of use of the applicator and if you feel comfortable using it. Essentially, the ease of use of your stain applicator can affect your project’s quality, efficiency, and overall look.
Consequently, if your stain applicator is difficult to use, your deck wood surface can have a blotchy and uneven finish. It will also cause you to apply too much or too little stain, leading to wasted product and an undesirable finish.
Additionally, the application process can be frustrating and time-consuming to correct or smoothen the finish, so it’s better to aim for an even finish on the first application.
Type of Applicator
It is important to consider the type of stain applicator when choosing one for your deck. Essentially, the type of stain applicator you will use can affect the quality of the overall finish.
Also, different stain applicators offer different levels of control over the application process. This can significantly affect the speed of the application and your project’s turnaround time.
Additionally, using the right stain applicator for your project can help reduce waste. This will help you apply the desired amount of stain without excess dripping or spilling.
Knowing what type of stain applicator is best for your project can help ensure the application process is safe and injury-free.
Bear in mind that some types of stain applicators require specific safety measures, such as wearing protective gear or ensuring proper ventilation. Here are the different types of stain applicators for your deck:
Roller
Rollers are a popular tool for applying stain to a large, flat surface area like wood decks. Using a stain roller can help you evenly distribute the stain and achieve a more even and consistent finish.
Another advantage of using a stain roller is that it makes the application process more efficient, allowing you to finish your project faster than using a paintbrush or staining pad.
Generally, stain rollers are more suitable if you’re working with semi-transparent, transparent, or thinner stains. Using stain rollers with these finishes can ensure the stain penetrates the wood evenly, resulting in a more uniform color and smoother finish.
Essentially, stain rollers are easy to use and require minimal preparation. It is an excellent option if you’re a DIYer or have a limited experience in staining.
However, a roller is not best for uneven surfaces, such as wood knots [1] or rough areas. Also, a roller may not reach these areas effectively if your deck has narrow spaces between the boards, such as with a tight-fitting decking system.
Hand Brush
Using a hand brush is a great option for staining your deck, especially if your deck has intricate details or hard-to-reach areas.
Most woodworkers prefer using a hand brush for detail work, including staining vertical surfaces that may be difficult to reach with a roller.
Using a hand brush provides more precision and control, especially in staining tight spaces or around edges. This can ensure that the stain is applied evenly on the entire surface.
Also, using a hand brush helps you stain your deck easier and more thoroughly, improving the durability of the finish over time. Additionally, the hand brush is suitable for multiple applications of stain, allowing you to build up the color and achieve the desired finish.
However, while a hand brush can be an effective tool for staining your deck, it’s not the best option if you need a quick turnaround time for your project.
Also, if you’re a beginner, you can leave noticeable brush marks on the surface, especially if you use a transparent or semi-transparent deck stain.
Floor Brush
A floor brush is a good option for staining your deck, especially if you need to cover large areas quickly and efficiently. Using a floor brush can help you save time and effort.
Unlike hand brushes or rollers that require you to get down on your knees to apply the stain, a floor brush allows you to stand upright while working, which can be more comfortable and less strenuous.
If you’re concerned with the overall finish, achieving a smoother finish is easier using a floor brush. This is because the large surface area of a floor brush allows you to apply the stain evenly and prevent uneven patches or streaks.
Additionally, you can use a floor brush on various types of surfaces. But it is best for rough surfaces where sanding is not needed. It is most effective in applying thicker or more solid stains.
However, it is not ideal if your project requires precision and detailed staining work, as you will not have enough control around railings, corners, or other obstacles.
Paint Sprayer
Among all stain applicators, a paint sprayer or spray gun is the most efficient that can cover larger areas, allowing you to save more time and effort.
It’s a versatile applicator that can provide even coverage across the surface of your deck and prevent uneven patches or streaks.
When buying a paint sprayer, choose the one that allows you to adjust the spray pattern to get into tight spots and hard-to-reach areas.
Although a paint sprayer is more expensive than other stain applicators, it can help you conserve stain by applying it in a thin, even layer, which can even help you save more money and effort.
Price
When buying a stain applicator for your deck staining project, it is important to ensure that you are getting a product that is both effective and within your budget.
Although there are factors that can affect the price of a stain applicator, including the quality of the materials used, the size and design, and the brand name. Typically, larger and more complex applicators are more expensive than smaller, simpler ones.
However, it is essential to compare the prices and features of different brands and models to get the most value for your money. Look for stain applicators that have been proven effective based on good reviews and ratings from other woodworkers.
It is also wise to purchase a stain applicator that comes as a kit and includes other tools and supplies you will need for the staining process. This is more cost-effective and will save you time and hassle.
FAQ
What is the best tool to stain a deck?
way to achieve a smoother and even finish. It’s soft and absorbent, which holds more stains that can penetrate and distribute evenly into the wood for better protection and longevity.
Is it better to brush or roll stain on a deck?
It’s better to use a brush than roll the stain on a deck. Using a brush allows you more control, better penetration, less spatter, greater versatility, and a smoother finish than using a stain roller.
What is the best brush for deck staining?
The best stain brush for a deck has an extension handle or pole. It reduces fatigue, allowing you to stand more comfortably while applying the stain. This helps prevent back pain and other discomforts arising from extended bending or reaching periods.
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My Top Pick For a Deck Stain Applicator: Wooster Brush RR412-10 Shearling Floor Applicator
After testing the popular brands of stain applicators in the market, I chose the Wooster Brush RR412-10 as the best deck stain applicator. It has an exceptional ability to hold and distribute stains evenly across various surfaces, significantly reducing the time and effort to complete your project.
Ultimately, it offers excellent value for money, crafted from high-quality pure lambskin, ensuring durability and longevity. You can rely on it for multiple projects, making it a smart investment.
Robert Johnson is a passionate furniture maker & carpenter, sought after for his knowledge on the craft.
You’ve probably seen his down-to-earth wisdom in USA Today, Bobvila, Family Handyman, and The Spruce, where he has shared commentary and guidance on various woodworking topics.
Robert is the brain behind Sawinery, where he aims to share tips, tricks, and a passion for all things carpentry.
