QUALICOAT has published the 25th edition of its global Specifications, approved in November 2024 and effective from 1 January 2025. The update introduces expanded requirements for decorative coatings on architectural aluminium, reinforcing performance, traceability and sustainability across the sector.
New focus on decorative finishes.
A major addition to the 2025 Specification is a dedicated appendix for QUALIDECO-certified decorative finishes, covering technologies such as sublimation and powder-on-powder. For the first time, the specification provides detailed criteria for gloss levels (measured at 60°), coating thickness (minimum 80% of 60 µm across multiple points), and durability testing under harsh conditions including sulphur dioxide exposure and humid atmospheres.
By setting these parameters, QUALICOAT aims to ensure that decorative aluminium finishes not only meet design expectations but also deliver long-term resilience in urban and coastal environments.
Licensing, testing and accountability.
The 2025 Specification also strengthens licensing and compliance frameworks. Only QUALICOAT-approved plants and materials may be used, with all new technologies subjected to detailed laboratory testing prior to approval.
A new system of “self-tested decoration” lists requires suppliers to test each new Class 1 finish internally and keep accessible records for QUALICOAT inspectors to review during licence renewals. This measure improves transparency while enabling innovation in decorative surface treatments.
Stronger inspection and enforcement.
Independent inspectors will continue to make unannounced visits, but now with expanded authority to cross-check laboratory data against on-site production records. This enhanced regime ensures that certified products meet the highest quality standards and prevents sub-standard finishes from entering the supply chain.
For architects and specifiers, this guarantees confidence that coatings carrying the QUALICOAT logo have been rigorously tested and independently verified.
Aligning performance with sustainability.
The update also reflects QUALICOAT’s broader focus on sustainability and accountability. With growing use of recycled aluminium and decorative treatments, the new rules ensure that environmental responsibility does not come at the expense of technical performance.
By mandating resistance testing against aggressive conditions, including accelerated weathering and sulphur dioxide exposure, QUALICOAT helps secure long-term durability of façades, curtain walling and architectural elements where aesthetics and performance are equally critical.
A global benchmark since 1986.
Since its foundation in 1986, QUALICOAT has been the world’s only global specification for architectural powder coating. Its standards not only define the robustness of the finished coating, but also detail the process controls that safeguard consistency.
Members demonstrating compliance may display the QUALICOAT logo and licence number, signalling to clients worldwide that their coatings meet the most rigorous global benchmarks.
The 2025 Specification is more than an update – it is a renewed commitment to design freedom, surface durability and responsible, high-quality finishing for architectural aluminium.
