Strongest Tactile Tiles

Detectable warning systems are quickly becoming recognized as the strongest tactile tiles systems. They are made from stainless steel and have been available since 2005. They were first used in the state of Wisconsin after the Department of Transportation (DOT) was active in testing materials for their durability. There are many environmental factors that affect detectable warnings such as water, salt, UV rays, freeze/thaw and the weight of vehicles driving over them. The damage to the detectable warnings caused by snow plows hitting them was the reason for making them out of stainless steel. This is one of the only materials that can stand up to this type of abuse, as proven by the Wisconsin DOT.

Strongest Tactile Tiles

DOT has tested every available material by running over them with a plow. Based on the results, they only allow the use of metal products in their projects. Other northern states, such as Minnesota, where there is extensive use of snow removal equipment are progressing towards the same conclusion that metal products are the strongest tactile tiles. In order to achieve the required contrast with the surrounding concrete, the strongest tactile tiles stainless systems are not usually left bare but are coated in a wide range of colors.

by Bruce Woolner