Bates Deck Stain Brush Set (4″, 5″, 6″) Review: A Practical Look at Multi-Size Applicators for Wood and Masonry
The Bates Deck Stain Brush Set comes in three sizes—4, 5, and 6 inches—and is marketed as a versatile tool for applying stains to wood decks, fences, and even masonry. After spending some time using these brushes on a cedar fence and a concrete patio wall, I have a reasonable sense of what they do well and where they fall short.
The primary use case here is applying semi-transparent and solid stains to rough-sawn wood. The brushes feature synthetic bristles that are stiff enough to work stain into wood grain without excessive shedding. I found the 6-inch brush to be the most useful for large, flat surfaces like deck boards, while the 4-inch brush handles edges, corners, and narrow pickets on a fence. The 5-inch brush sits in the middle and works fine for medium-sized sections, but I often reached for the 6-inch when speed mattered.
Key functional features include a contoured handle that provides a decent grip even when your hands are slightly wet or stained. The bristles are flagged (split at the tips) to help spread stain evenly, and they held up well over several hours of use without noticeable fraying. The brushes also have a metal ferrule that feels solid, though it is not rust-proof, so rinsing and drying them promptly after use is necessary. One practical note: these brushes are not ideal for thick, gel-based stains or paints, as the bristles can become clogged and difficult to clean. They work best with thinner, water-based or oil-based stains that flow easily.
In real-world use, the set performed adequately for a weekend project. Applying stain to a 50-foot cedar fence took about three hours with the 6-inch brush, and the finish was consistent with minimal streaking. The 4-inch brush was handy for the picket edges and around gate hardware. However, I did notice that the brushes require a bit of pressure to work the stain into the wood, which can lead to hand fatigue after extended use. The handles, while comfortable, are not ergonomically shaped in any special way—they are just rounded wood with a slight contour. This is a trade-off worth considering if you have a large deck or multiple coats to apply.
One limitation is the lack of a built-in paint bucket hook or a brush rest. When you need to set the brush down, it can roll off a paint tray or bucket rim, potentially picking up dirt or debris. A simple fix is to place them on a clean rag or use a magnetic brush holder, but it’s an extra step. Also, the bristles are not as stiff as those on a dedicated masonry brush, so applying thick block filler to rough concrete was slow and required multiple passes. For purely masonry work, a stiffer brush with a longer handle might be a better choice.
Comparing these brushes to a standard paint brush or a roller setup, they are more specialized. A roller is faster for large, flat deck surfaces, but it often leaves a thinner coat and can spatter if not used carefully. Brushes give you more control and push stain into the wood grain, which is important for long-term durability. The Bates set is a reasonable middle ground between a cheap disposable brush and a professional-grade stain applicator. They cost less than some premium brands, and the multi-size set is convenient if you need different widths for different tasks.
Who is this product suitable for? Homeowners tackling a weekend deck or fence staining project will find these brushes useful. They are also a decent choice for DIYers who want a set that covers both wood and masonry stains without buying separate brushes. The three sizes cover most typical applications, from narrow trim to wide boards.
Who might want to look elsewhere? Professional contractors who need brushes that can withstand daily heavy use and harsh cleaning solvents may find these wear out faster than higher-end options. The bristles do shed a few strands during the first use, which is common for synthetic brushes, but it could be annoying if you need a flawless finish. Also, if you primarily work with thick paints or epoxy coatings, these are not the best tool—you would be better off with a stiff, short-bristle brush or a roller designed for heavy-bodied coatings.
Overall, the Bates Deck Stain Brush Set delivers on its basic promise: it applies stain to wood and masonry without major issues. It is not a revolutionary tool, but it gets the job done for occasional projects. Just be prepared to clean them thoroughly after each use and accept that they are more of a practical, mid-range option than a premium applicator.
