The Differences Between Antibacterial and Antimicrobial

While they both have the capacity to provide nearly the same range of features and benefits, antimicrobial flooring systems are actually different from antibacterial flooring systems. This type of discussion, however, can be debatable; especially if you want to be granular when it comes to the definition of terms. That being said, here are the definitions of the two:

• Antibacterial Flooring refers to the flooring technologies that provide health benefits, such as increased protection and resistance against different types of bacteria. This includes E. coli and Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA). Often, this type of flooring tech utilizes silver as active antibacterial agents.
• Antimicrobial Flooring, meanwhile, refers to the flooring technologies that provide health benefits by minimizing the presence of various microorganisms. From bacteria to mold and fungi, antimicrobial flooring tech delivers an increased level of protection against harmful microbes by inhibiting growth for extended periods of time. Because of this, antimicrobial flooring systems – such as those that have silver, zinc, or far-infrared ray technology – are prevalent in environments such as labs, hospitals, schools, and kitchens.

Choosing the Right Level of Protection Against Harmful Organic Substances

Knowing that the primary distinction between the two is the range of bacteria that they can combat, you can freely decide which flooring tech is best suitable for your needs. Whether residential, commercial, or industrial, both antibacterial and antimicrobial flooring provides the health benefits that instantly make any room better by elevating its functionalities. So, which of the two should you choose? Here are the steps to help guide you in making a decision:

• List down and evaluate all the factors that determine the goal: What are you trying to achieve and build here?
• Once you know the purpose of the project, you can decide whether the floors (or any other part of the space) should be antibacterial, antimicrobial, or both.
• Select the flooring solution that delivers the health benefits that the project demands. If there are more microorganisms that need to be addressed at a specific rate or interval, then maybe antimicrobial tech is the better option.

Create a Safer Environment for Everyone

Naturally, it helps to be aware of how a flooring product can carry either type of protection from harmful microbes and bacteria. This feature can help engineered hardwood flooring products to be cleaner, safer, and more durable. With Ua Floors, you can expect reduced staining and the total disappearance of foul odors that can eventually cause bacteria, mold, or mildew to form. Here are the ways you can benefit from either type of flooring feature:

• Through construction or building materials
• Safer and healthier surfaces
• In beverage and food manufacturing processes
• In spaces that serve to produce other types of consumer items
• In the different types and modes of transportation
• In environments that rely on the improved health and safety features of a place

No matter the industry or demand, antibacterial and antimicrobial flooring technologies are solutions that serve to make your quality life better in more ways than one. Through these regulated flooring solutions, you can effectively combat microbes in less amount of time versus cleaning products. Keep yourself, your family, employees, and customers protected by ensuring they are safe from harmful microbes.
For all your antibacterial and antimicrobial needs for flooring, don’t hesitate to contact us today.