Ordering ADA compliant signs can seem complicated if you are unfamiliar with accessibility requirements, sign materials, Braille, raised lettering, and installation specifications. Whether you are opening a new business, renovating a commercial property, or replacing outdated signage, choosing the right ADA signage helps create a more accessible environment while supporting compliance with applicable accessibility standards.
From identifying which signs you need to selecting materials and arranging installation, this step-by-step guide explains how businesses can order ADA compliant signs with confidence.
What Are ADA Compliant Signs?
ADA compliant signs are designed to meet accessibility requirements established under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and applicable building codes and standards. Depending on their location and purpose, signs may need features such as raised characters, Grade 2 Braille, appropriate character contrast, tactile lettering, and specific mounting or placement considerations.
Common examples include:
- Restroom signs
- Room identification signs
- Exit and stairway signs
- Accessible entrance signs
- Parking signs
- Elevator signs
- Office signs
- Wayfinding signs
- Permanent room and facility identification signs
The exact requirements depend on the type of sign, its location, and the applicable regulations, so businesses should verify requirements before production.
Step 1: Determine Which ADA Signs Your Business Needs
Start by walking through your facility and identifying areas that require permanent identification or accessibility-related signage.
Consider:
- Restrooms
- Offices and conference rooms
- Stairways
- Elevators
- Accessible entrances
- Exits
- Parking areas
- Public facilities
- Employee areas
- Hallways and wayfinding points
For new construction or remodeling projects, review the architectural plans and applicable accessibility requirements before ordering signs. This can help prevent expensive replacements later.
Step 2: Identify the Sign Locations
The location of each sign affects its design, size, mounting method, and installation requirements.
For example, a permanent room identification sign may require tactile characters and Braille. A directional sign may have different requirements depending on its purpose and placement.
Measure or document each location before submitting an order. Important details include:
- Available wall space
- Door swing direction
- Mounting surface
- Sign height
- Visibility
- Lighting conditions
- Distance from corners or obstructions
Providing accurate location information allows the sign professional to recommend an appropriate configuration.
Step 3: Choose the Right ADA Sign Design
ADA signage does not have to look outdated. Businesses can choose from a variety of professional materials, finishes, colors, and layouts while incorporating required accessibility features.
Popular options include:
- Acrylic ADA signs
- Plastic ADA signs
- Metal ADA signs
- Custom tactile signs
- Braille signs
- Dimensional ADA signs
- Engraved signs
- Custom wayfinding signage
When selecting a design, prioritize readability and accessibility. Strong contrast between the background and characters can improve visibility, while tactile lettering and Braille provide important information for people who are blind or have low vision.
Step 4: Select Braille and Raised Lettering
Braille and raised lettering are important components of many permanent ADA room identification signs.
Raised characters allow information to be read through touch. Braille provides an additional method of communicating room or facility identification.
Your sign provider should understand tactile character requirements and appropriate Braille specifications rather than simply adding decorative Braille to a standard sign.
For businesses ordering multiple signs, maintaining consistent typography, positioning, colors, and materials can also create a more professional appearance throughout the facility.
Step 5: Confirm Sign Dimensions and Specifications
Before production, review every sign carefully.
Confirm:
- Sign dimensions
- Text
- Room numbers
- Character size
- Typeface
- Braille
- Raised lettering
- Color contrast
- Material
- Finish
- Mounting method
- Quantity
This is particularly important for large commercial projects. A single incorrect room number or spelling error can result in additional production costs and installation delays.
Step 6: Request a Professional ADA Sign Quote
Once you know what you need, request a detailed quote from a professional sign company.
A useful quote should identify:
- Number of signs
- Sign types
- Materials
- Dimensions
- Customization
- Installation costs
- Production timeline
- Applicable permit or project requirements
For businesses in Long Island and surrounding areas, Genesis Signs & Graphics can help businesses plan professional signage solutions based on their facility and project requirements.
When requesting a quote, provide photographs, architectural drawings, measurements, sign schedules, or a list of rooms whenever possible. The more information you provide, the easier it is to develop an accurate proposal.
Step 7: Review the Proof Before Production
Never approve a large signage order without reviewing the proof.
Check every detail, including:
- Spelling
- Room numbers
- Braille placement
- Raised lettering
- Colors
- Logos
- Dimensions
- Sign orientation
- Quantity
A professional proofing process gives you an opportunity to correct mistakes before the signs are manufactured.
Step 8: Plan Installation
ADA compliant signs need to be installed appropriately—not simply manufactured correctly.
Before installation, determine where each sign belongs and make sure the mounting surface is suitable.
For permanent room identification signs, placement can be particularly important because the sign should remain accessible and readable without being blocked by doors or other objects.
Professional installation can help ensure that signs are securely mounted and positioned consistently throughout the facility.
Step 9: Inspect the Completed Signage
After installation, walk through the property and inspect the finished signage.
Check whether:
- Every required sign has been installed
- Room names and numbers are correct
- Braille is present where required
- Raised lettering is correctly incorporated
- Signs are securely mounted
- Signs are visible and accessible
- Directional information is clear
- The overall signage system is consistent
If your project involves regulated facilities, new construction, or renovations, coordinate with the appropriate design and compliance professionals to confirm that all applicable requirements have been addressed.
Why Professional ADA Signage Matters
ADA signage is more than a regulatory consideration. Effective accessibility signage helps people navigate buildings independently and find important facilities more easily.
For business owners, professionally designed signage can also provide:
- Better visitor navigation
- Improved accessibility
- A consistent brand experience
- Professional interior presentation
- Easier facility identification
- Reduced risk of ordering incorrect signage
A well-planned signage system combines accessibility, functionality, durability, and visual consistency.
Final Thoughts
Ordering ADA compliant signs becomes much easier when the project is approached systematically. Start by identifying the signs your facility requires, determine their locations, select appropriate materials and accessibility features, verify specifications, review proofs, and plan professional installation.
Most importantly, do not treat ADA signage as a one-size-fits-all product. Sign requirements can vary according to the sign’s purpose, location, building type, and applicable regulations. Working with an experienced sign professional and appropriate accessibility or design professionals can help you create a signage system that is functional, professional, and appropriate for your facility.
If your business needs new ADA restroom signs, room identification signs, Braille signs, or other accessibility signage, start by creating a complete sign schedule and requesting a detailed project consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions About ADA Compliant Signs
1. What makes a sign ADA compliant?
Depending on its purpose and location, an ADA-related sign may need features such as tactile raised characters, Braille, appropriate character specifications, contrast, and compliant placement. Requirements vary by sign type, so applicable ADA standards and building codes should be reviewed for the specific project.
2. Do all business signs need to be ADA compliant?
No. ADA requirements generally apply to particular types of permanent signage, especially signs used for room and facility identification and other regulated applications. Promotional signs and certain temporary signs may be treated differently.
3. Do ADA signs require Braille?
Many permanent room and facility identification signs require Braille under applicable accessibility standards. However, the requirement depends on the sign’s function and location.
4. What are common ADA signs businesses order?
Common products include ADA restroom signs, room identification signs, office signs, elevator signs, stairway signs, accessible entrance signs, parking signs, and certain wayfinding signs.
5. Can ADA compliant signs be customized?
Yes. Businesses can often customize materials, colors, finishes, shapes, typography, and other visual elements while still incorporating required accessibility features.
6. How long does it take to make ADA compliant signs?
Production time varies based on the number of signs, materials, customization, proof approval, and project requirements. Installation schedules can also affect the overall timeline.
7. How much do ADA compliant signs cost?
Pricing depends on factors such as material, size, quantity, Braille and tactile features, customization, and installation. Requesting a project-specific quote is the best way to determine the actual cost.
8. Can ADA signs be installed on doors?
The appropriate location depends on the type of sign and applicable accessibility requirements. Permanent room identification signs are often positioned adjacent to doors rather than directly on moving doors so they remain accessible when the door is open or closed.
9. Should I install ADA signs myself?
Small projects may appear straightforward, but professional installation can help ensure consistent placement and secure mounting. For commercial construction or renovation projects, installation should be coordinated with the project requirements and applicable accessibility standards.
10. How do I order ADA compliant signs for my business?
Begin by listing the required rooms and facilities, documenting sign locations, selecting appropriate sign types, confirming accessibility specifications, reviewing a proof, and arranging production and installation with a qualified sign professional.