Now you’ve got a clean, dry surface ready to go. Choosing the right stain is where you get to make it your own. There are three main types—transparent, semi-transparent, and solid. Transparent stains show off the wood grain the most, but they don’t last as long and may need reapplication every year or two. Solid stains last longer and give stronger color, but they cover up the grain. Semi-transparent is somewhere in the middle. You’ll still see some grain, but you get better durability. Think about where your cabin sits—is it in full sun most of the day? That might push you toward a solid or semi-transparent option. If it’s mostly shaded, a transparent stain could work just fine.
Before you apply anything, stir your stain well. Don’t shake it—shaking creates bubbles, and bubbles make for a bumpy finish. Use a clean brush or roller to apply the stain. You can use a sprayer too, but you’ll probably still need to go over it with a brush to work the stain into the wood. Start at one side of the cabin and work in small, manageable sections. Always follow the grain of the wood. Don’t be tempted to rush. If the stain sits on top too long without being brushed in, it can get sticky or uneven.
