b'Cleaners, surface treatments, sanitizersCleaning and sanitizing grow in importance for health and wellness 2020 and the COVID pandemic has brought a new emphasis onto cleaning and sanitizing surfaces. One way com-panies are addressing this is through antimicrobials that guard against dangerous microbes and support a healthy environment. Another approach is through sealers that prevent the opportunity for microorganisms to collect in crevices and the micropores in absorbent materials like grout. As we go forward, cleaners will be important tools in the arsenal for wellness. Arthur Mintie Grace MuozSenior Technical Services Director Marketing Coordinator USALATICRETE International, Inc. FILA Surface Care SolutionsThisyear,weveseenallaspectsofProtectingsurfacesisnowmore the tile and stone industries affected byimportant than ever! Grout and absor-the COVID-19 pandemic. CDC and OSHAbentmaterials,inparticular,tendto continue to implement new guidelinesattractgermsbecausetheycontain to keep construction jobsites safe, andmicropores,whichfacilitatethepen-theprojectregulationsareconstantlyetration of water and dirt. When water changing on a job-to-job and state-by- and dirt filter through the surface, the statebasis.LATICRETErecentlyrecog- small holes become the perfect habitat Arthur Mintie nized a major trend that has created aGrace Muoz for germs to grow: they are dark, warm, spark of demand in the tile and stoneprotected and rich in food. To prevent marketplace: the use of antimicrobials.bacteria from proliferating in the micropores, its impor-Known for being extremely effective against bacteria bytant to apply premium sealers that block water, oil and up to 99%, and proven to be successful at fighting a broadstaining agents, while creating a breathable barrier that spectrumofbacteria,itsnotsurprisingwhyantimicro- keeps walls, floors and countertops hygienic and looking bial flooring is widely used in hospitals. In fact, LATICRETElike new. predicts an increased demand for antimicrobial materialsWater-basedsealersdonotreleasefumesandare in hospitals and has noticed growth within the food andidealforhigh-absorptionmaterialssuchastravertine, beverage industry. As our world keeps evolving and learn- sandstone, terracotta and concrete. They are an optimal ing to adjust to differing industry trends and requirements,choice for maintaining the highest hygiene and environ-its important to consult a trusted tile and stone installationmentalstandards.Oncethematerialisprotected,its materials manufacturer for assistance on which antimicro- vital to follow CDC guidelines and clean surfaces before bial products work for your specific needs.disinfecting them. 402020|TECH'