Antibacterial Shutters: Fighting Germs and Contaminants

Window shutters are prone to harboring germs in kitchens, bathrooms and other high-traffic areas. Fortunately, modern antibacterial shutter options prevent microbe growth and spread of illness-causing pathogens.

Antimicrobial Vinyl Shutters

Vinyl shutters made with antimicrobials molded throughout the material actively kill microbes on contact. Once bacteria lands on the vinyl surface, embedded agents rupture cell walls to destroy pathogens.

Silver Ion-Infused Shutters

Some PVC shutters contain integrated silver ion particles with natural antibacterial properties. Brands like GreenBuildingSupply add silver ions into PVC shutter slats during manufacturing. The silver ions inhibit microbe growth.

Self-Sanitizing Nanocoatings

Applying nanocoatings like Liquid Glass onto shutters bonds nanoparticles to the surface to provide a hard, self-sanitizing shield. The coating’s hydrophilic property causes water to sheet down flat, preventing microbe adhesion.

Antibacterial Paint Additives

When repainting wood or composite shutters, add EPA-registered antimicrobial additives into the paint like Microban or SteriTouch. The additives transfer microbial resistance to painted surfaces.

Antibacterial Stains and Varnishes

Wood finish products like Minwax Antimicrobial Stain or Rust-Oleum Specialty Antimicrobial Varnish protect wood shutters from bacterial and fungal growth. The protection resists wear and weathering.

Clean with Antibacterial Solutions

Routine cleaning with diluted antimicrobial solutions like eucalyptus oil, hydrogen peroxide, vinegar or colloidal silver destroys infectious germs like MRSA, E. coli and salmonella on shutter surfaces.

Copper Hardware Components

Antimicrobial copper shutter hinges, knobs and fasteners provide inherent germ resistance. Microbes perish rapidly on contact with copper’s ionic surface. Upgrade standard hardware for this added protection.

Light-Activated Antimicrobial Powders

Photo-catalytic antimicrobial powders like Delightera Technology can be embedded into shutter materials during manufacturing. Natural light activates the powder to kill microbes continuously.

Germ-Resistant Wood Species

Some wood species contain natural antibacterial oils. Western red cedar shutters and white oak shutters benefit from these inherent antimicrobial properties.

Water-Resistant Coatings

Applying water-repellent coatings like Rain Guard Water Sealers creates a barrier that discourages bacterial growth by resisting moisture adhesion and penetration.

Frequent Cleaning

Vigilant cleaning prevents microbe colonization before they multiply into hard-to-kill colonies. Wash shutters weekly in high-traffic areas with antimicrobial cleaners.

Replace Damaged Shutters

Permanently seal or replace shutters that show signs of water damage, mold or mildew. Damage allows pathogens to gain a foothold. Use mold-resistant materials for replacements.

Antibacterial shutter materials and additives provide ongoing surface protection against dangerous microbes. Maintain protection with careful cleaning and prompt replacement when damaged.