After the prep try the Armstrong Clark in the Amber color.

State: Colorado, High Rockies, Full sun intense sunlight at altitude Wood is Redwood with new construction on all areas. The wood looked so amaz...

Anyone? Just need to know if I can start staining immediately or if I should wait. I've narrowed my choices to Armstrong or Timber Oil but not sure wh...

No need for this. Only cosmetic.

I would not use any of those. Let the wood weather for a few months. Clean and brighten for the prep after the weathering. Look for TWP 100 Series.

If it is patchy then you should strip it otherwise it will look patchy when reapplied. For a uniform appearance the wood should have a even look to it...

Try doing a google search for "deck cleaning metro Atlanta" or "deck staining metro Atlanta"