This experimental study analyzes the deterioration of guadua when in direct exposure to atmospheric agents (solar radiation, rain, wind, and changes in ambient temperature) to evaluate the behavior of protection treatments, through a comparative analysis of protected and unprotected elements exposed under identical conditions. A structure was developed in guadua angustifolia kunth in which different angles were included in the elements and on some of these a protective film of lasur was applied with several previous preparations on the surface. The test was exposed to the elements for 11 months, during which the deterioration of the structure was monitored by visual inspection and photographic documentation on a periodic basis. Subsequently, samples of the exposed elements were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy. Photodegradation was identified as a primary lesion, evident in the elements with and without protection, with greater impact on the horizontal elements, which receive more solar radiation. Derived from photodegradation, other secondary lesions were found such as the presence of fissures and cracks, which compromise the surface of the material and allow the appearance of biotic agents in the guadua. Surfaces not directly exposed to solar radiation did not show significant effects, so it was concluded that the main aspect against which the guadua should be protected is direct solar radiation and that the protection procedures applied do not offer actual good performance against the test conditions, suggesting the need to seek efficient alternatives for this condition.