The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) calls on detectable warning surfaces to be installed on walking surfaces, which enhances the safety of the visually impaired. Companies with over fifteen employees are expected to comply with the accessibility guidelines and be ADA compliant. Do you want to install these surfaces on a budget? There are various ways to save on the installation. Let’s first learn about detectable warning surfaces.
What are detectable warning surfaces?
Detectable warnings are a surface pattern of truncated domes or strips that alert individuals with vision impairment how to approach street crossings or hazardous drop-off points. They are small elevated or color-contrasting strips on ramps or crosswalks. As blind and visually impaired people walk on the pathway, these surfaces alert them to changes in the surroundings.
What are the mistakes to avoid when installing detectable waning surfaces?
Detectable surfaces are warning signs used in most places globally. They enhance safety and accessibility, and dangerous installations can pose problems to the user. The first blunder to avoid this is installing too many tiles or not installing enough. Too large detectable surfaces can cause severe harm to users and make it difficult to determine the direction of travel.
Another mistake is installing them in the wrong locations. This can notify pedestrians that they have reached the other side of the road. Lastly, truncated domes protruding too high on the ground can cause tripping hazards. They will also make it difficult for people using wheelchairs or strollers to move over the surface.
How can I save when installing detectable warning surfaces?
1. Go for quality
Quality is a money-saving trick with most products, and detectable surfaces aren’t an exception. Whether using curb ramps or handicap ramps, choose high-quality materials. These will last longer and ensure minimal or no maintenance, thus saving a lot in the long run.
2. Ensure proper installation
Proper installation of detectable warning signs keeps users and their families safe. During installation, the materials should be well adhered to create a strong bond. In some cases, detectable domes or tiles are bonded to the substrate using an adhesive.
Even when using high-quality materials, improper installation will compromise their quality. You may then have to undertake regular repairs and maintenance or replace the tiles, which comes at a cost.
3. Choose the right installation process.
There are different installation methods, and all hold up differently. Detectable warning tiles and domes are sturdy and can withstand the tear and wear of daily traffic. However, they work best when they are as sturdy as the substrate and adhesive used. The installation process determines the durability of the detectable surface, and it’s wise to use a proper installation procedure for the exact type of surface. This way, the domes will withstand traffic, last long, and save a lot.
4. Engage experts
Installation of detectable surfaces isn’t a walk in the park. It involves various steps to ensure that the tiles and strips are well bonded. You can make costly blunders when installing these by yourself. It’s best to engage an experienced installation company with proper equipment for a successful installation. This may seem costly at first but saves a lot of money and expenses later on.
Final thoughts
ADA guidelines allow the use of detectable warning surfaces in public areas to enhance the safety of the visually impaired. These tiles are installed on top of sidewalks, roads, and other pathways and come in different materials and colors. Purchase them from a reputed company to guarantee quality and have them installed by professionals.