Staining is considered a "finishing process" which serves as a means to seal the wood and protect against vulnerabilities such as UV radiation, insects, and water damage. The best time to stain is once the wood has "cured" usually 1-3 weeks after install. Curing allows the water in the wood to dry out, If uncured wood is stained, the water becomes trapped and the stain does not penetrate very deep. Oil and water do not mix, If the moisture content is above 13%, Stain should not be applied. The curing process can be quickened with a leaf blower, but the best results come from a natural cure.