Ensure the deck is clean and dry. Stain as soon as the surface dries to avoid dirt and dust accumulating on the surface. Avoid staining your deck in direct sunlight. Consider temperatures between 50 and 90 degrees. The sun makes the stain dry out quickly hence a rough finishing. Apply painters' tape to surfaces you need to protect. Use a natural bristle brush to apply the deck stain. Rolling gets the work done faster, but brushing ensures that the whole surface is stained. Stain all areas, including joints and grains. Work on several boards at a time to avoid spilling over to adjacent panels.