Tactile strips are paving units that have a distinctive and raised surface that is detected by visually impaired pedestrians. The most common tactile strips are used at pedestrian crossings, and below, we discuss the different types of tactile strips.
Types of Tactile Strips
The tactile strip implementation has progressed in recent years, and they are available in different types. Tactile strips were first introduced in the 1980s and are now found in natural stone and clay pavers form.
The units are laid in the same way as block pavers, even though many are being put on full concrete to prevent breakage in case of accidental trafficking. The main element with tactile paving is that it detonates several hazards using different surface profiles.
Blister pavings are available in two forms, and the most famous has 6mm blisters. Hazard units detonate hazards using half-rods, but they should be parallel to the hazard edge. Cycleway paving indicates a cycle lane using flat bars, and they can be put in the pedestrian section.
Guidance or directional paving indicates the best travel direction for the blind since it has rounded ends. Lozenge paving is expected to become more common as cities and towns rediscover the benefits of Light Trail Transport.
Blisters are milled to a circular shape with stone paving to match those available with clay equivalents. The most famous metal studs are stainless and are retro-fitted. Here, studs are put into planter walls and low benches.
Clay strips are more versatile and have a vast range of complementary units like half-blocks that can be laid in several patterns. These units cause significant changes in the surface levels by offering the surface level’s flexibility.
Major towns and cities use these stick-on tiles to retro-fit concrete. They were “temporary” tactile in the past but have surprised many with their performances. These tiles are glued into the existing paving’s top and can be opened in a few hours.
The Corduroy paving has a rounded protrusion and is used as a hazard warning. These strips are found in pre-cast concrete and have several colours. Flat bars are used for creating cycling paving in units that lack kerbs. Most cities are identifying bicycle-only lanes, especially if kerbs delineate these lanes.
Guidance or directional paving is a guide across large spaces, and clay units can be acquired from most manufacturers. The lozenge strip is used for trams, rail, and bus stops in the open street. Tram networks are expanding alongside the redevelopment of bus stations, making them friendly to the disabled.
Final Thoughts
Tactile strips are paving units with a raised and distinctive surface that help visually impaired people go about their business. The most famous strips are available in zebra crossings, and the above article has discussed some.
Examples of famous strips are blister pavings, guidance pavings, and clay strips. These strips have many benefits to the visually impaired; no wonder their increased fame. They are easy to install and take a few hours. Kindly reach out to us for more information.
