Guidance for Painting Flexibead Composite Beading with Teknos

16 July 2026

This specification outlines the recommended coating system for Flexibead composite beading components using the Teknos AQUATOP water-based coating system.

Why Flexibead?

Flexibead is a high-performance composite glazing bead designed specifically for modern windows and doors. Engineered for exceptional dimensional stability, moisture resistance and long-term durability, it provides a reliable solution for manufacturers looking to achieve consistent quality and performance.

When paired with the recommended Teknos AQUATOP coating system and applied using the correct finishing process, Flexibead produces a durable, high-quality surface suitable for both automatic and manual high-pressure spray application.

Getting the Best Results

Achieving a flawless finish starts with following a controlled factory finishing process. From surface preparation to drying times, every stage plays a role in ensuring excellent coating adhesion, colour consistency and long-lasting weather resistance.

This guide highlights the recommended products, application methods and best practices to help professional coaters and manufacturers achieve optimum results every time.

Application Conditions

Temperature and Humidity

For best performance, coatings should be applied when:

Ambient temperature is between 15°C and 35°C
Relative humidity remains below 80% RH

These conditions help ensure the coating cures correctly and produces a consistent finish.

Don't Forget the Dew Point

To prevent condensation forming during application and curing, the substrate temperature should always remain at least 3°C above the dew point.

Surface Preparation

Preparation is key to achieving maximum adhesion.

Before coating:

Ensure all surfaces are clean, dry and free from dust, grease and other contaminants.
Flexibead composite profiles may retain residues from the manufacturing process, so they should be thoroughly degreased immediately before coating using TEKNOSOLV 7012 or an approved equivalent cleaner.

Taking the time to prepare the surface correctly will significantly improve coating performance and longevity.

Colour Options

The Teknos AQUATOP opaque coating system is available in an extensive range of standard and bespoke colours, giving manufacturers the flexibility to meet virtually any design requirement.

Best Practice Tips

A few simple steps can make a noticeable difference to the final finish:

Light de-nibbing between coats helps improve film appearance and overall uniformity.
Water-based coatings require adequate drying time when applied to non-absorbent composite substrates.
Avoid excessive film build, as this can extend drying times and delay full cure and water resistance.
Translucent coating systems are not recommended for composite substrates, as the base material cannot be stained.
Dark colours—particularly black—may require additional process controls to achieve optimum performance.

Coating System

Stage	First Coat	Topcoat	Maintenance
Product	AQUATOP	AQUATOP	FUTURA AQUA Series
Recommended Application	Spray	Spray	Brush
Minimum Application Temperature	15°C	15°C	10°C
Wet Film Thickness	150–175 μm	150–175 μm	Refer to maintenance guidelines
Overcoat Time (23°C / 50% RH)	4 hours	4 hours	4 hours per coat
Action Before Next Coat	Lightly de-nib and remove dust	N/A	N/A
Equipment Cleaner	Water	Water	Water

Looking After the Finish

To keep coated Flexibead components looking their best, regular maintenance is recommended using compatible products from the FUTURA AQUA maintenance range. Following the manufacturer's maintenance guidance will help preserve appearance, extend coating life and maintain long-term performance.

The recommendations in this guide are based on extensive laboratory testing and practical application experience. However, every production environment is different. Processing conditions, equipment and substrates can all influence the final result, so manufacturers should always verify the suitability of the coating system within their own production process before full-scale application.

Ultimately, the performance of any coating system depends on correct surface preparation, application methods, drying conditions and film thickness. Always follow the latest technical data sheets and health and safety guidance to achieve the best possible finish.