Understanding ADA Compliance Regulations and Choosing the Right Product
About 83% of the total U.S. population currently lives in cities and urban areas. In the next 30 years, that number is expected to triple. Considering that 8% of Americans today are visually impaired or live with learning and physical disabilities that affect their mobility, that demographic will soon increase as well. More than ever, ADA compliant detectable warning systems, such as truncated dome tiles and tactile wayfinding directional bars, are needed to help individuals safely travel, work, play, and live a thriving life independently.
Most brand name manufacturers produce only detectable warning tiles and directional strips that are ADA compliant. Products are also rigorously tested to meet the stringent ADA requirements.
During the inspection process by the Civil Rights Division, there are four tools that inspectors will use to make sure your project is in compliance. Read “Are You Compliant?” in the White Cap Resources Center.
And, if you need help choosing the right products, confirming products are ADA compliant, or installation advice, talk to a DOT knowledgeable White Cap sales associate. We build trust on every job.
The color is consistently solid throughout the unique UV-stabilized reinforced polymer composite material and resistant to wear.
The most common colors are the standard Safety Red and Federal Yellow; however, additional colors such Ocean Blue, Ochre, and Onyx Black are available. Color choices may vary by manufacturer.
Check with each manufacturer for their color selection options.
(Note: colors are not a true representation of actual color, please request color sample)
Surfaces must not create a hazard for support animals nor anyone with physical and learning disabilities or visual impairment.
Surfaces will be in a truncated dome pattern or a raised pattern of wayfinding bars or strips providing pathway direction and alerts when the path changes direction.
In addition to the ADA regulations, you will need to follow requirements of the Public Right of Way (PROW) and the California Title 24 Requirements. The use of an ADA detectable warning systems makes public spaces more enjoyable, accessible, and safe for everyone.
Compliance
After the American Disabilities Act, (ADA) became law in 1991, the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Department of Transportation (DOT) created federal laws and regulations that required installing detectable warning surfaces in public spaces. Be sure to confirm that the detectable warning products you plan to install meet all Federal requirements as well as state, county, and local regulations.Most brand name manufacturers produce only detectable warning tiles and directional strips that are ADA compliant. Products are also rigorously tested to meet the stringent ADA requirements.
During the inspection process by the Civil Rights Division, there are four tools that inspectors will use to make sure your project is in compliance. Read “Are You Compliant?” in the White Cap Resources Center.
And, if you need help choosing the right products, confirming products are ADA compliant, or installation advice, talk to a DOT knowledgeable White Cap sales associate. We build trust on every job.
Color
Color is very important. Tiles and bars are required to be extremely visible, even in fog, rain, and snow. They must provide a stark visual color contrast between the tile and its surrounding area, so it’s easily seen from a distance. Keep in mind that colors vary by city, county, and municipality laws and guidelines.The color is consistently solid throughout the unique UV-stabilized reinforced polymer composite material and resistant to wear.
The most common colors are the standard Safety Red and Federal Yellow; however, additional colors such Ocean Blue, Ochre, and Onyx Black are available. Color choices may vary by manufacturer.
Check with each manufacturer for their color selection options.
(Note: colors are not a true representation of actual color, please request color sample)
Surface
Detectable warning surfaces must be easily detected by sight, touch, or hearing.Surfaces must not create a hazard for support animals nor anyone with physical and learning disabilities or visual impairment.
Surfaces will be in a truncated dome pattern or a raised pattern of wayfinding bars or strips providing pathway direction and alerts when the path changes direction.
Truncated Domes
Carefully spaced truncated domes create a tactile warning surface that helps the visually impaired and disabled individuals safely and independently access public spaces.The ADA requires:
- Truncated dome spacing of 1.6” to 2.4” center to center
- Spacing between adjacent domes should be at least 0.65”
- Domes should have a 2” height above the ground
- Home installation must be flush with surrounding concrete for a smooth transition and to avoid a tripping hazard.
- Truncated domes are to be felt comfortably underfoot, seen with its bright contrasting UV-stabilized colors, and heard when tapped with a cane or walker.
Durability
Most truncated dome tiles and directional strips are manufactured to last for decades. Whether surface applied or cast in place, these durable products are built to withstand heavy traffic over long periods of time, the weight of snow plows, corrosion, and extreme weather conditions. Many manufacturers offer warranties of 5 to 10 years.
Slip Resistance
Because truncated dome tiles and directional strips are installed in some public areas that may be open to inclement weather and extreme temperatures, (sidewalks, public transportation platforms, stadiums, parking lots, building entrances, curb cuts, wheelchair ramps), their tactile surfaces must be slip resistant, or they become hazardous.Using technology developed for space applications and nanotech materials, a diamond-hard reinforced non-porous polymer composite was created that is extremely slip resistant, even under the worst weather conditions.
Low Water Absorption
A low water absorption rate guarantees that dome tiles are long lasting. When water expands based on its temperature, the tiles can break down and quickly wear or delaminate. Tile longevity depends upon a low water absorption.
Installation
Tactile warning tiles are required to span 24” across the bottom of the curb ramp and extend 24” in the direction of travel.Surface applied ADA tiles can be used to retrofit existing projects, and they can also be found in radius sizes to better accommodate curb ramps and pedestrian crossings.
Replaceable cast in place ADA tiles are ideal for new projects and are also available in radius sizes.
Installation Services
When planning your installation, before you begin, consider whether you want to handle the installation yourself, or subcontract to one of the many reliable companies that specialize in detectable warning systems installation.White Cap Can Help
In addition to our huge selection of detectable warning system products in the sizes you need, our experienced sales associates are knowledgeable about ADA, PROW, and CA 24 compliance issues. And, because they live in the areas where you’re working, they’re also familiar with state and local code compliance.We have DOT specialists available via phone if you have questions. And if your project is a government job, White Cap holds a GSA Schedule and a Sourcewell Awarded Contract to service all your government procurement needs.
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