They say, "You can't offer a solution unless you understand the problem." For the built environment, destructive microorganisms such as bacteria, mold, mildew, fungi and yeast have been a very real and serious problem for a long time. In recent years, combating microorganisms in buildings has been stage-center among the concerns of building owners, architects, engineers, tenants and green building advocates.
In the natural environment, microorganisms play a key role in the decay and decomposition of organic matter, contributing significantly to the lifecycle of all living things that makes life on earth possible. However, in the built environment, microorganisms are the main culprit contributing to "sick building syndrome." Microbes present in ductwork, within walls, above ceilings, below floors, on and under surfaces, etc., cause billions of dollars in property damage and economic loss while remediation takes place to correct the problem. Microbes cause odors, stains, discoloration and corrosion to building elements, such as concrete, wood, steel, masonry, drywall, etc.