Costa Rica's climate presents unique challenges for wood furniture and finishes. With humidity levels regularly exceeding 80% during the rainy season, and intense UV exposure year-round, materials behave differently than they would in temperate environments.
The most common mistake we see is applying care standards developed for North American or European climates. Products designed for controlled indoor environments often fail to account for the expansion, contraction, and moisture absorption that occurs in tropical settings.
Understanding wood movement
All wood moves in response to moisture changes, but in Costa Rica, this movement is more pronounced. A piece that arrives perfectly fitted during dry season may swell significantly during the rains. Proper specification accounts for this movement from the start.
Oil vs. polyurethane in humid climates
Penetrating oil finishes often outperform film-forming finishes like polyurethane in high-humidity environments. While poly can trap moisture beneath the surface, leading to clouding and delamination, oil finishes allow the wood to breathe while still providing protection.
Our approach to wood specification
When we specify wood pieces for Costa Rica projects, we consider species selection, finish type, joinery methods, and hardware choices. Every decision is made with the understanding that this piece will live in a tropical environment for decades to come.