If you're looking for an effective, simple and affordable way to spruce up your deck, here are a few staining techniques to inspire you! 
Paint/Stain 
Exterior Semi-Transparent Stain in:
  -Hamilton Blue
  -Natural Tone Cedar
  -Birch White
  -Seagull Gray
Deck Stain: same colours as above.
Tools
masking tape, pole sander, hand sander, utility knife, rags, straight edge or ruler, 8 – 2 ½" bristle brushes, disposable latex gloves

 Make sure there have been at least 5 consecutive dry days prior to beginning any exterior staining project. Rent or borrow a moisture meter from your local Benjamin Moore dealer to test the wood surface you'll be staining if you are unsure of its moisture content.

6 Easy Steps for a Sensational Deck

1. Sand deck thoroughly to remove any dead wood fibres or mill glaze (if deck was previously finished, existing finish must be completely removed). Lightly wash deck to remove any dust particles.
2. Determine where the floor pattern will be scored into the deck surface. Try to work with the natural lines of the deck. The less you have to work against the grain, the more successful the project will be. Draw your pattern on the deck with a pencil.
3. Use a utility knife and ruler to score the pattern on the deck surface. The cuts don't have to be more than 1/32" thick, but must be deep enough to be seen.
4. Tape off the patterned areas you're going to stain. Select your choice of stain colour. We chose Hamilton Blue, Natural Tone Cedar, Seagull Gray and Birch White, all in Benjamin Moore's Exterior Semi-Transparent stain. Be sure to use Deck Stain on the Deck. This product has more scuff resistance than the regular semi-transparent stain.
5. Begin by staining the vertical surfaces first. Exterior stain lasts longer when it is applied lightly, so "less is more" in this case. Use a brush to apply the stain, as this will help achieve better penetration. Remember, when you start to apply stain to a board, you must finish its entire length. If you stop in the middle, you'll run the risk of lap marks.
6. Follow by working on the horizontal areas applying stain in the same manner as on the vertical surfaces. To apply stain in the scored areas, brush in the lightest colour first, then apply all other colours. Simply brush the stain at the edge of the scored line. Tape can be applied along this line if you don't have a steady hand.

Helpful Hints

1. When brushing on two different stain colours that are adjacent to each other, start with the lightest colour first, then use the next darkest, etc.
2. Always begin staining the raised sections so that drips will not land on previously finished areas.