With all of the known and unknown bacterial viruses out there today, it is imperative that we do our best to protect those around us. This is especially important where there are large numbers of people. Bacteria and germ resistant paint is just one more step you can take to protect those around you.
Places That Use Bacteria and Germ Resistant Paints
There are many places that this type of paint can be used. They include:
- Schools
- Daycares
- Hospitals
- Clinics
- Doctor’s facilities
- Laboratories
- Nursing Homes
- Cruise Ships
All of the above can be breeding grounds for bacteria and germs, so it makes perfect sense to utilize something that can help to prevent the spread of these harmful microbes. Bacteria and germ resistant paints are an effective preventative measure, but it still does not take away the need to use proper cleaning materials frequently.
What Does It Kill?
- Some of the germs that these microbial-resistant paints reduce are:
- Enterobacter Aerogenes
- Escherichia Coli (E. coli)
- Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA)
- Staphylococcus Aureus (Staph)
- Vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus faecalis (VRE)
These paints can eradicate 99.9% of the above germs that it comes in contact with, and can eliminate the harmful bacteria on the surfaces within a time frame of two hours. The paint industry is currently working at trying to shorten this amount of time, so that there will be even fewer chances of infection. These paints can also last up to four years if the surface is maintained correctly.
Varieties of Bacteria and Germ Resistant Paints
Sherwin Williams has been approved and registered by the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) and has been working on this type of paint for a while, trying to perfect it to the standards it is at today. One of the nice things about Sherwin Williams microbicidal paint, other than the obvious, is the number of color choices – over five hundred fifty!
Other manufacturers are producing this particular form of paint as well. Your local paint dealer should be able to give you additional information on other brands, particularly their pros and cons. When you are planning on having a company apply this for you, they should be able to let you know what brand of product they recommend.
Manufacturers such as Sherwin Williams have various types of paint that already consist of the additives needed for antimicrobial properties, but there are also ways of having this additive placed into other kinds of paints and coatings as well. These coatings can be used for the following projects:
- Industrial
- Decorative
- Specialty coatings
- Varnishes
Some of the things that it can be added to include all modes of solvents, lacquers, liquids, oils, powder paints, coatings and water-based paints. The process of adding this booster is done at the time of manufacturing, so you will not be able to add it at a later time.
Not only are the paints bacteria and germ resistant, but they also protect against mold, fungi, and odors. The paint also helps to prevent staining on the surface, but as with all modes of paint, care needs to be taken not to damage the substrate during cleaning.
As you can see, it is indeed a versatile form of additive that can genuinely take your paint or coating to the next level.
Cautions to Be Taken
Since this is a potent form of paint, caution has to be taken when working with it or around it. It can produce some health problems when handled incorrectly. The harmful component it contains is called alkyl dimethyl benzyl ammonium chloride . You will need to have eye and skin protection, so eyewear and protective clothing are a must!
Polyethylene glycol (PEG) was noted as being the first kind of polymer to be utilized for the protection against bacteria, but the field has significantly widened since. It is fantastic just how far paints have come, as there are even types of coatings and coverings that can prevent the spread of germs on doorknobs and ATMs, with many more possibilities in the future.
If you are interested in getting more information on this subject, a great place to go is a local Certified Painting Company .
