A covered terrace with generous overhangs is key to protecting your space from intense sun and heavy rain in Bocas del Toro. Discover how simple additions, like a surrounding walkway and smart wood treatments, can extend the life of your terrace while minimizing maintenance—plus, a cost-effective oil treatment for lasting protection!

Terraces, in general, are delightful living spaces in many ways under tropical conditions. However, as the tropical climate suggests, it means the sun can be scorching, and rainfall can be heavy. For this reason, it is highly advisable to have covered terraces with generous overhangs. Such a roof allows you to enjoy your terrace at any time, while also protecting the wood from sun and rain, significantly extending its lifespan. Additionally, the walls of your home will also be shielded from weather elements, preserving the paint or finish on your cladding.

This is why having a surrounding terrace, even if it’s just a walkway of 1 to 1.5 meters wide on the sides and back of your house, will protect all your walls. You can stroll around your home while staying dry and in the shade, effectively reducing maintenance efforts.

Varnish

It’s worth noting that I don’t highly recommend outdoor varnishes, despite their attractive appearance. Like varnishing a wooden boat, multiple layers are needed to achieve a beautiful and effective finish. However, when the varnish ages and needs renewing, you’ll face long and tedious sanding sessions before applying a new coat. It’s better to opt for penetrating oils, which don’t require sanding before reapplication.

A handy tip for replacing expensive and very liquid penetrating oils is to use clean, new W 40 motor oil, which is the most economical option available in bulk. Mix it with a little diesel to thin it out. The diesel also acts as an insect repellent. The diesel smell will fade quickly within 2 to 3 days, providing effective protection for your wood.