: Question One: The pre-coating of wood is optional but probably a good idea
: for a first timer like me. Correct?

I always use a saturation coat on bare wood. It doesn't take much epoxy, seals the wood, really eliminates air bubbles from out-gassing, etc. Applying a saturation coat isn't just for new builders.

: Question Two: Brush or roller. I had always throught a foam roller was the
: way to go, but yesterday I started reading that using a brush reduces the
: air-bubbles and was better for fill coats...

I think you should try a variety of techniques and use what works best for you. For example, I've had great success with a high density foam roller for applying epoxy (including fill coats), no air bubble or foaming problems. But, I'm pretty lousy with a foam brush, which runs counter to what a lot of builders experience and recommend. Foam brush for me = foam. Then there's the group that just pours on the epoxy and spreads it with a squeegee. I just can't master that technique, so I don't use it. I'm a roller guy.