Tactile Tile Architect
By Bruce Woolner

Tactile tiles are being specified by architects with increasing frequency. This comes with a greater level of awareness on their part. They are becoming more educated on the ADA regulations as well as the different materials available for detectable warnings. Some manufacturers (such as Armor-Tile) provide free seminars presenting different materials or regulations for AIA credits. The designers do not want to be held accountable if their buildings do not meet the federal regulations. This could mean increased costs and inconvenience for the building owners.

Another cost and maintenance issue can arise can arise if no particular detectable warning system is specified. In this case, the contractor is likely to employ the cheapest system. This could include stamping the concrete, or the use of pavers. Any of these systems will not stand up to any outdoor environment. This has proven to be the case in numerous instances over the past five years. When stamping is used it is rarely compliant from the beginning as it is too difficult to create the exact dimensions of the domes as specified. Stamping and most pavers will exhibit breakage of domes and fading of the material in a short period of time. Aside from these factors making the system non-compliant, they also make it very unsightly.

Armor-Tile is widely specified as a tactile tile system by architects and companies because it is much more durable in material and appearance.

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