Help with the right way to stain decking boards

Hi everyone,

I am about to lay new treated pine decking boards (90 x 22) and would like some input on the best way to stain.

Is it best to pre-stain the boards before I lay them or after?

I am a bit worried about getting the stain properly between the boards if it's laid without staining first as the gap is so small.

I was going to stack the boards together in batches with the 22mm side facing upwards to I could just brush or roll over all the edges at the same time, then flip over and do the same to the other side. Then I could probably nail the boards on and stain the tops.

I would also like to know if it's better to use nails or to screw all the boards on. I don't live in a coastal area or have a pool nearby so can I just use galv nails instead of s/s?

And my last question is.........do I need to do a coat of oil over the stain or just leave it be? I will be doing 2 coats of stain. Most of the deck is under a covered pergola so won't get wet.

Any help is more than welcome for this newbie!
:)


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