Benefits of Antimicrobial Door Handles and Knobs

Frequently used objects like door handles can present a health hazard due to viruses and bacteria that remain on the surface. Viruses and bacteria can survive on plastic and metal surfaces anywhere from several hours to several days.

When it comes to entrances to public or commercial buildings, the issue becomes even more pronounced. Yet, this shouldn't be overlooked in private homes and residential buildings either.

The most effective solutions

Automatic doors present the optimal solution but aren't always available, so most entrances are left with traditional doors. Similarly, there are automatic sanitizers and ultraviolet lights, but those remain reserved mainly for hospitals.

Initially, the most efficient way to resolve the issue was replacing steel or plastic handles and knobs with those made of copper.

Copper has natural antibacterial and antiviral properties, which is in part why it's used for plumbing pipes. The material can significantly reduce viral disease transmission because most viruses can't survive on copper for long.

Some of the most well-known manufacturers have addressed this concern by coating door handles with an antimicrobial finish to address the matter further. The layer often contains silver, which has similar antimicrobial properties to copper and has proven even more useful.

Door handles coated with silver can significantly reduce infection risk, offering up to 99% protection.

Health benefits

Adding an antimicrobial coating to door handles and knobs prevents the multiplication and spread of viruses and bacteria. Left unchecked, microbes on door handles can quickly spread throughout the household, settling on interior surfaces, and infecting people.

Coatings with ionic silver are especially effective because they interrupt bacterial cell multiplication. Ionic silver influences the surface of microbes, interacting with the bonding points. As a result, the microorganisms grow more slowly and have less access to nutrition.

Less frequent cleaning

Although it's recommended to regularly clean door handles and knobs even if they're antimicrobial, there's less need to clean copper and ionic silver-coated ones as often. With unprotected door handles, cleaning can become a chore, especially in buildings with heavy traffic. Antimicrobial door handles and knobs will require less maintenance due to the reduced infection risk.

Along with viruses and bacteria, antimicrobial handles will inhibit the growth of mold, fungi, and mildew. In addition to health benefits, this will preserve the handles' look and cleanliness, making them easier to upkeep.

Making door handles and knobs safer for everyone

Antimicrobial handles can significantly improve health safety for commercial and residential buildings. Hiring a professional service to replace old door hardware is likely the best decision. It will contribute to residents and business customers' health and make everyone feel better protected from microbial hazards.

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