Decks, Patios, Porches and Docks - Wood deck staining; is there a better way?

After my husband and I pressure washing our deck over the weekend, I graciously offered to stain it while he was at work during the week. We have about 1000sf of redwood decking (about 15 years old), multi-tiered with three sets of steps. Railings, slats, and lattice included. We've done this before, and after finishing about 1/4 of the deck today, I now remember why I said I'd never do this again!

For best control, I decided to apply the stain on my hands and knees with a painter's pad, brush, and cheap stick sponge. After each section, I wiped up the excess with old t-shirts and towels. Even though my painter's pad and stick sponge broke after not too long, this definitely provided the best finish, but I am completely wiped out and incredibly sore from head to toe in just one day's worth of work. I tried long-handled application, but the control just wasn't there.

Is there an easier way? I'm skipping the slats and lattice, but I still have a long way to go...

Welcome to the forums Christi

Generally it isn't necessary to wipe off the excess when applying a deck stain. You should be able to move the stain/sealer around enough with the pad to prevent puddling. The bad news is, you will probably need to continue in the same manner to achieve the same finish.

Usually I'll spray on the stain and work it in with a roller. When that isn't feasable I'll brush and roll or brush only. I don't like a pad because it usually gets caught on a nail/screw head :eek:

After reading your question, I had to reply even though you may be done with your project. I am an over 55 female and have stained, sealed,or painted at least 4 decks and porches in the last few years. The easiest way for me to do this is with a brush. I do not get on my hands and knees. I have a small garden cart with wheels and sit on that to lean and brush. You are close to the floor but not on your knees. It rolls as needed to go back and forth on your boards. I also sit on the cart to do the slats and rails. It makes it much easier on the old body than on hands and knees.
Hope your project goes/went well.
Murphy