When designing a space with the goal of being hygienic, antimicrobial products offer an effective way to inhibit the growth of bacteria and germs. They can also reduce maintenance costs and increase the lifespan of building materials.
However, most antimicrobial additives like triclosan don’t stay where they are put, but end up in our air and dust. Luckily, innovative manufacturers are working on natural alternatives that can make buildings healthier.
Porcelain Tiles
Porcelain tiles are a popular choice for many reasons. They offer stunning designs, come in a variety of colors and patterns, and are highly durable. Additionally, they are a cost-effective option for hygienic homes as they require minimal maintenance.
While ceramic tile is a popular option, porcelain tiles are considered superior because they are harder and less prone to chipping and scratching. They are also less porous and can withstand more wear-and-tear than traditional ceramic tiles. Porcelain tiles can even withstand the heat of a fire, making them an excellent choice for kitchens and bathrooms.
Though not a natural anti-bacterial material, porcelain has an added advantage in that it can contain antimicrobial properties. These properties help to reduce the growth of bacteria and other microorganisms on surfaces, reducing the spread of germs.
The addition of an antimicrobial compound does not affect the structural integrity of porcelain. Studies have shown that if concrete with an antimicrobial agent is exposed to the elements for prolonged periods of time, it can still maintain its strength and durability.
While there are no anti-microbial products that have been proven to kill or prevent COVID-19, the CDC recommends following CDC guidelines and cleaning all surfaces on a regular basis. Fortunately, many anti-microbial building materials and cleaners are effective at inhibiting the growth of germs.
Epoxy Terrazzo
Cement terrazzo floors were born from ships’ ballast material, using marble chips to aid weight redistribution and balance. Local craftsmen repurposed the material in New York and other coastal American cities to create elegant Italian-style terrazzo floors. Today, epoxy terrazzo is the most durable, lowest life-cycle cost flooring system available and also one of the most sustainable.
This flooring uses an epoxy matrix to bind aggregates, allowing for limitless color and pattern possibilities. It can be specified with glass, plastic and even metal aggregates for vivid colors and optimal chemical resistance. Epoxy terrazzo’s thin-set system rises only 3/8” above the concrete slab and is one of the most flexible systems in the market. Its dimensional stability eliminates shrinkage cracking common to cement terrazzo, which can be minimized with divider strips every 1.2 – 1.5 ft.
Another advantage of epoxy terrazzo is that it’s a 100 percent solids system, eliminating the need for expansion joints. It’s also able to flex, making it more resilient than cement terrazzo. The admixtures that are used in the mix for epoxy terrazzo inhibit growth of the bacteria T. novellus, as shown by Southerland et al.
Both cement and thin-set epoxy terrazzo floors have low maintenance costs. Annual stripping and resealing can use environmentally friendly water-based products. Routine daily maintenance includes dry and wet mopping and casual spray buffing. Damaged terrazzo is typically refinished, rather than replaced, to restore its original luster.
Trusscore PVC
Trusscore PVC is a hygienic wall and ceiling material that is easy to clean, antimicrobial, and resistant to mold, mildew, and viruses. Its inert, non-porous surface can be easily wiped down with soap, cleaning agents, disinfectants, and sanitizers and will hold up to repeated pressure washing. This is especially important in food processing and commercial agricultural spaces where sanitation is a top priority.
Dairy farmers are always looking for futureproof materials that can withstand heavy use and high standards of cleanliness and biosecurity. With Trusscore, they can meet those needs without breaking the bank or reducing productivity. The plastic polymer walls and ceilings are hygienic, durable, crush-resistant, and easy to install in milking parlors, robot rooms, tank and observation rooms, calf penninct and containment, and barn washrooms.
These materials are also great for animal shelters, kennels, veterinarian offices, pet groomers, and breeders, as they are water resistant and offer antimicrobial protection. This prevents the spread of bacteria and germs, which helps protect animals’ health and ensures that owners have a clean, safe space for their pets. In addition, the hygienic nature of these products reduces maintenance costs by lowering cleaning and disinfection requirements. Trusscore PVC is low VOC emitting, mold and mildew resistant, and designed to outlast the life of the buildings it’s installed in. It is also 100% recyclable at end of life and offers a full-circle product recycling program.
Antimicrobial Paint
Antimicrobial paint is a wall coating that works to inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria and viruses. This type of paint can be used in spaces that are prone to frequent contact with germs, such as hospitals and schools. Unlike traditional paint, which can trap dirt, dust, and debris, this type of paint repels and removes these substances. It is also washable and can withstand harsh chemical cleaners.
These products are primarily used in the healthcare industry to protect patients and staff against bacterial infections. However, they can be used in commercial and residential spaces as well. They can be applied to counters, door handles, and other high-touch areas, as well as HVAC vents and mechanical equipment. They are especially helpful in preventing the spread of COVID-19.
The hygienic coating market is expected to grow rapidly over the next few years, due to increasing demand for products that prevent the spread of infectious diseases and promote hygienic environments. Moreover, the market is driven by strict hygiene standards and regulations in industries like healthcare and food processing.
One such product is BEHR’s COPPER FORCE Paint, which uses copper to inhibit the growth of microbes on surfaces. The paint and primer kills 99.9% of bacteria+ and viruses within two hours of exposure, and it continues to kill for up to six years as long as the integrity of the coating is maintained. It has passed vigorous washability tests and complies with the cleaning protocols recommended by the CDC.