FAQ

Silanes are extremely efficient bonding agents, which can be coupled to other molecules and then used to permanently bond those molecules to a target surface. This process modifies surface properties of building materials and transforms them to a material that will not support microbial growth.

Yes, they change all surfaces they are applied to, creating an antimicrobial surface that prevents mold, fungus, bacteria, mildew and algae from growing. Since the product is applied by a unique fogging application, it can be applied to most surfaces that are not affected by minor contact with moisture. You should protect silks, rayon, original paintings and unplug any electronics prior to application. Carpets and flooring should be allowed to dry before walking on the surface. Windows should be thoroughly cleaned prior to treatment.

Microbes can be extremely hazardous. Severe contamination with hazardous organisms may require cleaning protocols similar to those for asbestos removal. For normal contamination, solid surfaces should be thoroughly cleaned before treatment. Soft surfaces such as carpets and upholstery should be well vacuumed or professionally cleaned. Insulation can be cleaned and treated if only superficial growth on the surface is present. Insulation that has heavy growth or is damp should be removed and replaced.

New structures should be vacuumed and free of loose debris. Existing structures should be thoroughly cleaned including professional carpet cleaning prior to treatment. Contaminated surfaces should be thoroughly cleaned and any residue from cleaning agents must be rinsed from the surfaces to be treated. Once the surface is clean, application by a Certified Applicator should follow standard protocol.

The Microbe Guard Antimicrobials, because of their unique chemistry, provide long-term protection against re-growth and future contamination on treated surfaces. Porous surfaces, which are contaminated below the surface, will occasionally experience some growth, which may break through a treated surface if the surface was not cleaned properly before treatment.

Since the cured antimicrobials are nonvolatile, insoluble, and non-leaching, the treatment should last for the life of the treated surface. The life of a treated surface depends on a number of factors, not the least of which is surface preparation. If you treat a dirty or unstable surface, when the dirt comes off or the surface is disturbed, the effectiveness of the antimicrobial will decrease. Abrasive or caustic (pH>10.5) cleaners will also shorten effective life. In our experience, our home/office applicators have seen effectiveness for ten years or more.

No. They do not volatilize, dissipate, or leach onto other surfaces or into the environment. Their chemistry polymerizes where it is applied and forms a permanent bond that lasts for the life of the treated surface. Normal cleaning will not remove the treatment, although it can be abraded away with Dow Scrubbing Bubbles and major scrubbing.

Yes, moisture that is in or on the treated material or surface passes through the treatment. After curing, the treatment is somewhat hydrophobic (water repellent), but it should not be considered a replacement for commercial water repellents.

The Microbe Guard Antimicrobials technology is based on an active ingredient that, in most cases, can be easily detected. Two methods of detection are available to demonstrate the presence or absence of the treatment. All structures treated will be inspected by a Master Certified Applicator after application to ensure quality.

Conventional products penetrate living cells and kill by way of poisoning the organism. They are designed to act quickly and dissipate quickly to avoid adverse effects to humans and animals due to their toxic ingredients. Most commercial antimicrobials used for treating building surfaces do a great job of getting a quick kill on bacteria and fungi, although most have a limited spectrum of effectiveness. The heavy metal based antimicrobials on the market leach into the environment and lose their effectiveness over time. The Microbe Guard Antimicrobials take a totally unique approach.