If the remodeling industry has learned anything from the COVID-19 pandemic, it is the importance of good air quality throughout the home (and the office). Homeowners are more aware of germs than ever. But what you may not know is there are more options for the concerned Homeowner, in addition to good air quality and circulation. Check out these great products and manufacturers tackling issues you may not have even thought about:
1) Kwikset Anti-Microbial Barrier
Your doorknobs are the first line of defense your home can offer to any bacteria you may bring inside unknowingly. Think about it – doorknobs are the first thing you touch when entering your home. When was the last time you took a sanitizing wipe to any of your doorknobs, interior or exterior? It’s probably been a while, if ever. Gross.
Kwikset is the leading manufacturers of doorknobs and locksets in the US. Founded in 1946, they’ve been a household name for decades. In 2016, Kwikset partnered with Microban® International to incorporate Microban’s “silver-glass” technology into the finishes of many of their doorknob offerings. The silver ions bonded into the finish coating of the hardware reduce bacterial growth on the surface. “When bacteria come in contact with the product surface, Microban® protection penetrates the cell wall of the microorganism and disrupts the cell, making the microorganism unable to grow and reproduce.” Because they are incorporated during the manufacturing process, Kwikset warranties that the Microban® technology will be effective as long as the finish is good, and they have a lifetime finish warranty on all their products.
Disclaimer: Microban antimicrobial product protection is limited to the product itself and does not protect against disease-causing bacteria.
2) Sherwin-Williams Living Well Paint Collection
Anyone interested in “green remodeling” will be aware of VOCs, but did you you’re your paint can do more than just protect you from off-gassing? Released in 2021, these two new SuperPaint formulas each have a unique offering.
b. All of Sherwin-Williams’s interior paint is considered low-VOC, and there are several that are zero-VOC. The SuperPaint Air Purifying Interior Acrylic Latex not only has a GREENGUARD Gold Certification for low chemical emissions, but it also is designed to reduce VOCs in other areas of the room such carpets or cabinets. It helps to break down odors from cooking, smoke, and pets. And it has anti-microbial ingredients to help inhibit the growth of mold and mildew. Plus, it offers the same great quality and coverage SuperPaint is known for.
SuperPaint Sanitizing Interior Latex is a low-VOC product that is an EPA-registered microbicidal paint that kills 99.9% of Staph, E. coli, and more on painted surfaces within 2 hours of exposure. Its antibacterial properties remain effective against 90% of certain bacteria even with repeated contamination for up to 4 years, making it the ideal paint for kitchens and bathrooms.
3) TopZero Sinks
TopZero Sinks are described as “the healthiest sink on the market” and it’s easy to see why. These revolutionary sinks become integrated with the countertop during installation so unlike drop-in and undermount sinks, TopZero sinks are seamless and rimless, leaving no space for bacteria or mold to grow. There is no annoying lip to try and wipe crumbs over like on a drop-in sink, no caulk lines to mold or fail like an undermount sink, and virtually no maintenance needed post-installation. Plus, all TopZero Stainless Steel Sinks are manufactured with top grade stainless steel that is non‐porous, hygienic, rust free and extremely durable. It’s premium 304 series stainless steel.
Keep in mind these sinks do need to be professionally installed – this is not a DIY-friendly product. But the value they bring to the table (or should we say the kitchen) is well-worth the initial installation cost. Plus, they now offer this incredible design feature in utility sinks, vanity sinks, and a new porcelain series.
