We'll also walk you through the prep work you shouldn't skip—and help you choose the right stain color and opacity level for your wood. in4mal / GETTY IMAGES If you're busy getting your backyard ready ...

A great wood stain does double duty. First, it adds to the aesthetics, either by enhancing the natural grain pattern of the wood, or by covering blemishes, depending upon the stain you choose. Second, ...

Q: I just bought my first home, and I have to discover how to stain a deck. I have so many questions. For example, how do you clean a deck before you start? Is there a difference between deck stains?

As we head into Labor Day you’ll see sales and rebates for wood stains. The three-day weekend gives you time to stain your deck, and conditions are ideal as the weather cools and humidity drops.

With these expert hacks, you can get rid of dark spots without stripping and starting over.