We use Diamond Vogel opaque deck stains with good results. Needs to be renewed about every4-5 years. As bad as that wood is, however, I would not expect too much. Were it my deck I would set all the nails, rent a floor sander and try to get down to good wood before staining. To answer your questions: 1. Can anyone tell what type of wood my decking is made of? Treated pine 3. Can I wood-fill smaller cracks and splits instead of replacing? No. Wood filler is not for unstable environments like a wood deck. 4. Do I need to prep my railing differently than other surfaces? Only the top of the rail should be weather-worn. Sand it down before staining. 5. If I replace some boards, any tips for trying to blend the old and new boards? Blending is not really possible. The new wood is full of treatment solution and will take stain differently than old wood. The usual recommendation is to let new wood sit for a minimum of six weeks before staining.

IMO a better view of the whole front of the house would be helpful . I like the light but hate the storm door I really hides most of whatever door you choose and really not needed IMO if you go with a good insulated door and if you need the screen go with a phantom screen. You have already chosen to mix metals since IMO the light fixture and the house #s should have been the same color. I need to also see the patio right now all this is to me is a mish mash of stuff that I can't see working together.

When we bought the house. I always thought the house had no curb appeal terrible landscaping . Id like the house to pop. *welcome sign is no longer there* will be getting new service door and windows. Garage door color is a dark brown. Thank you

Those are great doors, a lot nicer style than your old ones! I would stain the outside, even if it's a little more maintenance, because it would look so much better. It's typical for doors to be painted white on the inside, and I don't think it would look cheap, especially if youl are careful to use the same color and sheen as the rest of your woodwork.