Understanding ADA Concrete Requirements

In 1990, the Americans with Disabilities Act, widely known as the ADA, was enacted to safeguard the rights of people with disabilities. As part of that safeguarding process, any public building must ensure equal access for both non-disabled and disabled visitors. That means new buildings must meet the regulations, and existing buildings must be retrofitted with barrier removal options. One of the common areas that existing properties need assistance with is ADA concrete work.

ADA Concrete Ramp Regulations

Suppose you are not familiar with ADA regulations. In that case, you may think that creating an accessible entrance to your business just means adding any ramp that will allow a wheelchair or scooter user to reach the entrance. However, such ramps have to comply with precise guidelines, and that is why you will need an experienced ADA concrete contractor to assist. Some of the regulations include meeting a specific length, width, and slope grade. ADA compliant ramps also need landings, curbing, handrails, and sidewalls in many circumstances.

The ADA does not specify that ramps must be made from concrete, but we have found that concrete is a reliable material that meets the requirements and is hardwearing enough to make sure your ramp stays compliant. Concrete is slip-resistant, does not collect water, and can be permanently fixed. That's why we have focused a lot of our work on ADA concrete projects.

ADA Concrete Parking

ADA concrete is also an important factor in your parking lot. ADA guidelines require you to provide accessible parking. This is more complex than simply designating the required number of stalls as accessible. They need to be appropriately striped, have signage installed, and meet the proper width requirements. You will also need to make sure that there is an accessible route from the parking lot to the entrance. This will likely involve installing curb ramps, accessible aisles, and access ramps at the door. It is important to use ADA concrete for these features.

ADA Concrete Can be Complex

These are just a couple of brief examples of the kind of ADA concrete work that might be required to make your business compliant. The ADA requirements can be complicated, and there is little to no margin for error. You also need to make sure that you comply with state regulations as well. California has some of the most comprehensive building codes in the nation regarding accessibility. It is important to hire a contractor who is familiar with ADA concrete. Around 25% of the work we do is redoing completed work that is not up to code because the contractor was not experienced in ADA guidelines. Don't risk an ADA lawsuit, and don't end up paying twice for work because you chose the wrong contractor. Protrk Construction is the ADA concrete contractor that you can rely on.

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Design | Build | Certified

Why Wait to be "Forced" into ADA Compliance. If you are a public business or public property owner, save money, lawsuits, time and headaches by being prepared and avoiding it all in the first place. It’s time to call in the ADA pros. Use Protrk, an ADA construction expert, to Get it Done Right Prior to Forced Compliance. 

Call 415-813-9877 today or visit www.protrkconstruction.com for more details.