Metal Detectable Warning

Metal detectable warning is new technology. That's because one of the more recent materials used in detectable warning systems is metal. In a very short period of time they have become established in the industry. It is obvious that they are one of the only materials that can withstand the mechanical abuse that detectable warnings are subjected to in certain areas. Although this can affect the coating, the domes will remain intact, unlike other materials such as concrete.

Metal Detectable Warning

Currently, a metal detectable warning is manufactured from stainless steel or cast iron. In order to achieve the required contrast with the surrounding concrete, the stainless systems are usually coated while the cast iron units may be left bare, rusty, or dark color.
The stainless steel tactile warning systems are preferred by the persons installing them as they are a quarter of the weight of the cast iron units, which may require additional machinery to put them in place. A certain amount of concrete would need to be taken out of the ramp to accommodate the cast iron units and the two pieces would need to be leveled individually. The stainless cast in place tiles are one piece and do not displace any concrete. Many people consider the rust on and around the cast iron units not to be esthetically pleasing, and a stainless steel metal detectable warning doesn't rust.

by Bruce Woolner