If you’re thinking, “I need ADA signage, but I’m not sure where to start,” you’re not alone. For many business owners, property managers, and facility directors, ADA compliance can feel like a legal and logistical maze. Between braille requirements, tactile lettering, and mounting height regulations, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.
The good news? You don’t have to figure it out on your own.
At Tupp Signs, we work closely with Graphic Components—an industry leader in ADA-compliant signage manufacturing—to guide clients through the entire process. From site assessment and design to fabrication and installation, we ensure your signage is compliant, attractive, and tailored to your brand.
What Is ADA Signage?
ADA signage refers to signs that comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act, ensuring that spaces are accessible to individuals with disabilities, especially those with visual impairments.
ADA-Compliant Features Include:
- Tactile (raised) characters
- Braille (Grade 2) translations
- High contrast color combinations
- Non-glare surfaces
- Specific height and mounting location guidelines
These signs are required in public spaces for rooms that don’t change function (like restrooms, exits, and conference rooms), as well as directional and wayfinding systems in large buildings.
Who Needs ADA Signage?
Nearly every public-facing business or organization must comply with ADA signage requirements, including:
- Offices and corporate buildings
- Hospitals and healthcare facilities
- Retail stores and shopping centers
- Government buildings
- Schools and universities
- Hotels and restaurants
Key Areas That Require ADA Signs:
- Restrooms
- Room identifiers
- Stairwells and elevators
- Exits and emergency routes
- Directional signage in hallways
Where to Start: A Step-by-Step Guide
1. Schedule a Signage Audit
Tupp Signs begins with a site walkthrough or signage audit to identify missing, outdated, or non-compliant signs. This step helps determine exactly what you need and where.
2. Understand the Code
We guide you through both federal ADA standards and any state-specific codes (e.g., California has additional braille dot spacing rules). Working with experts ensures your signage is legally compliant and safe from fines or legal challenges.
3. Define Your Sign Types
Depending on your space, you may need:
- Room Identification Signs (e.g., “Room 101 – Conference”)
- Wayfinding and Directional Signs
- Exit and Safety Signs
- Custom Informational Signs
4. Design with Function and Form
With Graphic Components as our manufacturing partner, we’re able to offer:
- Brand-aligned colors and finishes
- Tactile printing techniques
- Custom shapes, icons, and logos
- Durable substrates that meet ADA guidelines
Custom Doesn’t Mean Compromise
Many assume ADA signs are “cookie-cutter” and unattractive—but that’s far from the truth. At Tupp Signs, we combine compliance with creativity, using Graphic Components’ advanced fabrication techniques to create signage that fits seamlessly with your interior design.
Design Options Include:
- Brushed metal finishes
- Faux woodgrain textures
- Edge-lit or layered acrylic
- Custom color-matching and branding
Common ADA Signage Mistakes to Avoid
- Wrong Mounting Height
ADA signs should be installed 48–60 inches from the floor to the centerline. - Missing or Incorrect Braille
Not all braille is the same—Grade 2 braille is required. - Low-Contrast Color Choices
Aesthetics are important, but contrast is critical for readability. - Glossy or Reflective Surfaces
ADA signs must be non-glare to be legible under all lighting conditions.
Why Tupp Signs + Graphic Components Makes It Easy
Our partnership ensures a turnkey solution for ADA signage—from assessment to installation.
We Offer:
- Free ADA signage audits and consultations
- Compliance guidance and permitting support
- Professional design that blends accessibility with aesthetics
- Precision fabrication with Graphic Components’ advanced capabilities
- Expert installation to meet all code standards
Quote:
“Working with Graphic Components allows us to deliver top-tier ADA signs that are not only compliant—but custom, creative, and built to last.” — Tupp Signs Team
Conclusion
If you’re thinking, “I need ADA signage, but I’m not sure where to start,” you’re already on the right path. Getting ADA signage right isn’t just about ticking boxes—it’s about creating inclusive spaces that are safe, accessible, and visually aligned with your brand.
With Tupp Signs and Graphic Components by your side, ADA signage doesn’t have to be complicated. We make the process clear, compliant, and completely customized for your space.
📞 Let’s make your space inclusive and compliant.
Contact Tupp Signs today to schedule your ADA signage consultation or request a custom quote.
We’ll handle the details—so you can focus on welcoming everyone.