As an important aspect of public accessibility, detectable warning pavers are required in a number of areas of public life, to ensure access to persons of all abilities.
With many code compliant ADA tile options available, however, how can you be sure you are choosing the right detectable warning surface for your project? From correctly serving a specific role to enhancing public accessibility and safety, and ensuring durability, considering the following factors will help you find the right ADA tile for every project.

Installation Application
The installation type will have a great impact on which ADA tile you should chose for your project. For new construction, opting for a cast in place, or replaceable cast in place, ADA tile is ideal. This configuration of detectable warning paver installs directly into wet-set cement, ensuring the ADA tile sits flush with the surface. As the cement dries, the ADA tile becomes permanently adhered.
For existing projects, consider opting for surface applied ADA tiles. The installation of surface applied detectable warning pavers does not require any demolition or disruption of the substrate, as the ADA tile installs directly on top of the surface.
Considering your application type puts you on the right track on choosing the best ADA tile for your project.
Truncated Domes
While there may be many ADA tile options available, ensuring the detectable warning paver you chose for your project is code compliant is critical to code compliance and public accessibility.
When considering your options for ADA tiles, take into consideration the following code requirements for truncated domes from the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA):
The base diameter of truncated domes must be between 23mm and 36mm with a top diameter of 50% of the base.
Truncated dome spacing must allow for easy detectability without making it difficult for walkers, wheelchairs, strollers and other mobility aids to navigate. Accordingly, the center-to-center spacing of truncated domes must be between 41mm and 61mm, with a base to base spacing of at least 17mm.
Durability
The durability of an ADA tile is not only important to the longevity of the tile but for pedestrian safety as well. If an ADA tile becomes worn down the truncated domes will no longer be easily detected, negating the purpose of the tile and no longer providing a tactile warning of upcoming hazards. Additionally, if the installation fails an ADA tile can end up creating a tripping hazard.
ADA tiles manufactured from durable FRP composite materials have been shown to remain unaffected by heavy foot traffic and harsh weather conditions, continuing to provide critical wayfinding and accessibility features for years to come.
Cleaning and Maintenance
After installation, constant maintenance is not always feasible, which is why choosing a low maintenance ADA tile is an important consideration!
Installing a durable ADA tile that will withstand the wears and tears of intensive everyday use will eliminate all maintenance and replacement costs and opting for a replaceable cast in place tile will save time and money should replacement ever be required.
With so many options available, considering these factors will help you pick the right ADA tile for your project!
Access® Tile proudly offers the ultimate solution in detectable warning systems! Our ADA compliant detectable warning tiles offer industry-leading detectability and durability features at the most cost-effective price point available on the market. Rely on Access®Tile to bring your project up to code, and enhance accessibility in your community!