Where compliance meets craft.
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Welcome to our ADA signage FAQ. Get clear answers on tactile lettering, non-glare contrast, proper mounting locations/heights, and what’s required for ADA signage—plus design, submittals, timelines, and pricing. We deliver code-compliant, brand-ready interior signage across Albuquerque, Santa Fe, Rio Rancho, and Los Alamos; when you’re ready, contact us for a fast free quote.
2-6 Week Turn Around
Fully Licensed • Bonded • Insured
Fast Proofs in 24 – 72 Hours
The Basics
Once proofs are approved, we begin production right away. Typical small sets: 7–14 business days after design approval. Larger packages: 2–6 weeks; depending on scope, materials, and installation requirement. Rush options may be available.
Yes. You’ll receive clear digital proofs with callouts for tactile heights, Grade 2 braille, contrast, and mounting notes. Please review it carefully—spelling, numbers, colors, and locations. Production begins after your approval, and the final signs will match the approved proof exactly.
Yes—local installation is available. Otherwise, we ship labeled by location with hardware and instructionsYes—local installation is available. Otherwise, For ship-out orders, we send a ready-to-install kit: each sign is labeled by room/location, matched with the correct hardware, and paired with clear instructions.
Signs designed and installed to meet the ADA Standards so people of all abilities—including blind/low-vision users—can find rooms and routes safely. That usually means tactile (raised) letters, Grade 2 braille, non-glare finishes, and proper mounting height/location.
No. Signs that identify permanent rooms/spaces (like 101, RESTROOM, ELECTRICAL), exits, and many directional/wayfinding signs must comply. Temporary signs, menus, marketing graphics, and occupant-changeable nameplates usually don’t.No. Signs that identify permanent rooms/spaces (like 101, RESTROOM, ELECTRICAL), exits, and many directional/wayfinding signs must comply. Temporary signs, menus, marketing graphics, and occupant-changeable nameplates usually don’t.
The property owner/tenant is ultimately responsible. Most owners work with their GC, architect, and sign vendor (👋 that’s us) to ensure compliance.
Process, Pricing & Timing
Floor plans or a room list, sign types (room IDs, restrooms, etc.), finishes you like, and install location (city/site). If you have a spec or sign schedule, even better.
Most quotes turn around quickly 24-72 hours after we review your files. Complex sets may take a little longer—we’ll keep you updated every step of the way.
Size, layers/materials, quantity, and install complexity. Bundling signs and standard finishes helps control cost.
After proof approval and when walls/doors are ready. We can phase by floor to keep crews moving
We accept common payment methods. A deposit may be requested to begin production; the balance is due at delivery or install.
Often, yes—depending on scope and materials. Tell us your date and we’ll propose the fastest path.
Usually no. Exterior signs often do—we can handle permitting where required.
Design & Readability
Yes—so long as the sign face used for text/braille is non-glare and has strong contrast. Logos are fine as long as they don’t replace required text.
Non-glare surface, high contrast between characters and background (e.g., light on dark), simple sans-serif, uppercase tactile letters, and clear layout. We size visual text based on viewing distance and use ADA-approved pictograms where needed.
No —Braille isn’t always required.
You need Braille on signs that identify a permanent room or space (like room numbers and restrooms) and on certain exit doors near stairs/egress; those must be tactile with Grade 2 Braille. Braille is not needed for directional/wayfinding signs, directories, and maps—they just need good contrast and a non-glare finish. Temporary signs (posted 7 days or less), menus, addresses, names/logos are also exempt.
Contracted (Grade 2) braille, placed directly below the corresponding text with at least 3/8 in spacing. We follow the ADA dot size/spacing specs and proper capitalization rules.
Nope. Any color works if the contrast is strong and the finish is matte/satin (non-glare).
Mounting & Placement
On the latch side of the door, on the wall, with the baseline of the tactile characters between 48–60 inches above finished floor. If there’s no wall space, the nearest adjacent wall is allowed.
There’s no fixed inch measurement in the ADA Standards. What our install crews typically do in the field is set a consistent offset of about 2–3 inches from the door frame to the sign’s edge.
Two active doors: Mount the sign on the wall to the right of the right-hand door.
One active door: Mount the sign on the inactive leaf (the one that stays closed).
Provide clear approach space so someone can get close and read by touch (don’t put signs behind door swings or furniture).
Which Signs Need What?
Tactile letters + braille required (e.g., “214” or “ELECTRICAL”). If the function changes often, use a permanent room number and keep the changeable name separate.
Yes—tactile + braille next to the door. A second visual symbol on the door is common but not the ADA-required piece (some states have extra rules; we’ll advise).
Exit doors generally need tactile “EXIT” signs at the latch side. Inside stair enclosures, the building code (not ADA) usually requires a stair identification sign with floor level, roof access info, and stair designation.
Visual rules only (contrast, non-glare, viewing size based on distance). No braille/tactile on overheads.
Those follow DOT/MUTCD and local code (separate from interior ADA). We handle those too.
Materials & Durability
Most interiors use acrylic or Rowmark (engraving plastic) for crisp tactiles and a non-glare face. For exterior or ceremonial pieces, we recommend Gemini cast aluminum plaques, metal letters, or other weather-ready options.
Common interiors: 1/32″, 1/16″, and 1/8″. We’ll suggest the right stack (face + backer) based on look, location, and mounting.
ADA signs should be matte or satin so type and pictograms read clearly under hallway lighting.
Yes. We spec durable, exterior-grade Rowmark for outdoor room signs because it lasts and reads well. We can also offer metal or plaque solutions for higher-exposure locations.
Very. Tactiles are routed/formed for solid edges, and Grade 2 Braille is set to last. Normal cleaning won’t loosen them.
Indoors we often use VHB tape + silicone on clean, painted walls. On masonry, glass, or harsh areas, we use studs or standoffs. We match hardware to the surface so installs hold up.
Use mild soap and water or non-abrasive cleaners with a soft cloth. Avoid harsh solvents and scouring pads to keep faces non-glare and scratch-free.
With normal use: interior signs often last 7–10+ years; exterior plaques/letters can last even longer. Environment and cleaning habits matter.
Interiors hold color well. For bright sun or exteriors, we use UV-stable pigments/finishes and can add protective coatings for extra life.
