Mark77 said:To me beading has never really meant much to determine how good a sealant or wax is holding up. IME, (as long as the paint is in good condition and feels smooth) it has alot to do with how the water is applied to the surface, from a hose, light rain or try poring water from a bucket and it will likely sheet right off..
You're right, to an extent.
Beading by itself tells you nothing. However, the shape of the bead, size, uniformity, etc. all tell an important story.
In your bucket example, you're right. Most of the water will likely sheet right off regardless of the LSP condition. However, it doesn't ALL come off.
How much water is left? What does the remaining water do? What shape are the remaining beads? What happens when you wipe it with a towel? Does it smear? Can an air current move the bead?
The answers to those questions will help determine the health of your LSP.