The Tile Doctor Launches Shield, Its Non-Toxic Antimicrobial Solution, At Cersaie

Sept. 28, 2010 - PRLog -- Atlanta – The Tile Doctor, the total tile and stone resource and producers of cleaning and protection products for hard surfaces, today announced the availability of its Shield product line to the tile and stone industry. Shield is a non-toxic antimicrobial which, means it controls the growth of microorganisms without the use of chemical toxins.  It is suitable for application on most hard surfaces and can differentiate and enhance service offerings for healthcare and hospitality environments, corporate settings, schools and homes.  The launch of this product, the result of years of scientific and consumer research, is expected to help propel The Tile Doctor to the next level of the company’s growth.

History and Innovation
In the early 2000s tile industry veteran Curt Rapp, Founder and CEO of The Tile Doctor and its informational Website, www.TheTileDoctor.com, was attune to changing industry trends and envisioned the need for a non-toxic, non-leaching antimicrobial technology designed for tile and stone.  Determined to position The Tile Doctor on the front end of that trend, Rapp discovered, after several years of searching, an organofunctional silane that had been safely used in the textile industry for more than 30 years.

In order to develop a formulation specific to hard surfaces, Rapp sought the expertise of Silver Cornia, one of the world’s foremost research and development experts in the tile industry. Cornia, who also shares Rapp’s passion for tile, spent his career breaking ground in ceramic style, design and innovation, including 23 years as the head of Dal-Tile’s research and development team.

After years of rigorous testing for efficacy, performance against microbes and surface durability, the technology was perfected for tile and stone, propelling Shield's development for use worldwide. The resulting product is considered a true measure of green and sustainability.  

“Pollutants such as bacteria and mold combined with harsh chemicals from common cleaners create toxic environments inside homes, hospitals and places of business,” said Rapp. “It was extremely important for us to formulate a safe and sustainable solution that rids our environments from unhealthy microbes. At The Tile Doctor, we’re committed to providing continuous innovation and environmentally-friendly products, and the Shield line is exactly that.”

Shield Products
Available as a 3-part system that can be applied to hard surfaces by professionals and homeowners, Shield contains proprietary organosilane technology.  It is the only antimicrobial technology that modifies the surface and remains durable to provide long-term effectiveness against bacteria, fungi and algae and their byproducts such as odors, deterioration and harmful health effects.  Shield aides in the elimination of such microorganisms and reduces the need for common harmful cleaners such as bleach-based products.

The benefits of Shield can also be achieved specifically for grout, via Grout Admix. Utilizing Shield technology, Grout Admix, provides one easy step to super charge cement grout.  The product seals and protects grout and prevents the need for post-curing sealing.  

The Tile Doctor will be at CERSAIE Sept. 28 thru Oct. 2 in Booth B91 - Pavilion 22A. Visitors will have the opportunity to see live demos of the product and to speak to company representatives.

About Shield
Shield is the first and only antimicrobial product approved for hard surfaces that is non-toxic and has no potential for legacy environmental concerns. The Shield’s active ingredients are common organic materials, carbon, nitrogen and silica or sand. Available in a three-part system (Prepare, Shield, Maintain), these products create a surface that is free from bacteria, mold, fungi, mildew and algae without the harmful effects of outdated, toxic chemicals and cleaners.

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About The Tile Doctor
Founded in 1999 by tile industry veteran Curt Rapp, The Tile Doctor, TheTileDoctor.com and its line of advanced antimicrobial products focus on meeting needs of consumers and tile professionals. With tens of millions of unique visitors, The Tile Doctor Website features how-to information and an advanced collection of products, solutions for consumers and pros.

The company is incorporated as Tile Media Properties (TMP, Inc.), a nod to the company's informational origins. Headquartered in Atlanta, the company is an active member of all major industry associations and is the founding member of Tile Partners for Humanity (www.tpfh.com).