Exterior wood stain—whether for siding, trim, or a deck—requires no primer and is easier to apply than paint. Stain can be applied to new wood, wood sanded clear of paint, or surfaces that have been previously stained.

A disadvantage of stain is that it fades more quickly than paint and so requires more frequent recoating. But if you apply two or more coats at one application, you can extend the life of the finish considerably.

Another downside is that lap marks are more difficult to eliminate because stain dries more quickly than paint. You can minimize them by applying a second coat, but this may darken the finish, so be sure to test it out first.

As you work, be sure to mix the stain at regular intervals because the pigment settles quite quickly.

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