To prevent the photodegradation process, a wide range of coatings have been developed. This study evaluated wood color change (Delta E*) and the surface quality index (SQI) generated by ASTM D-660 standards in wood protected with polyurethane and varnish finishes of three tropical species (Acacia mangium, Cedrela odorata and Tectona grandis) in two weathering conditions (natural and accelerated condition). In addition, a model was developed to predict Delta E* and SQI in natural weathering based on Delta E* and SQI from accelerated weathering. The results showed that the application of these finishes generated variations in the color parameters of wood before being exposed to the elements. Additionally, it was found that finishes generated increases in Delta E*, especially the varnish type finish, and decreasing of SQI. Finally, models were found to predict color changes or surface quality in natural weathering based on color changes or surface quality in accelerated weathering. The model algorithm was expressed by Delta E* or SQI measured (X) and time exposure (t) in accelerated weathering by equation Y = beta(1) + (beta(2) * X) + beta(3) * t + beta(4) (t)(2) + beta(5) * (t)(3). With these models, it is possible to predict the equivalence of exposure times in natural weathering in tropical conditions for different kinds of finishes in three tropical species. (C) 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.