Accessibility isn’t just the right thing to do; it could also be a huge business opportunity. With more than 40 million people living with disabilities in the US alone, the need for accessible places is through the roof. This is a one-of-a-kind chance for Indian tile importers, whose goods can help make the decor more welcoming while also following the rules of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

But beyond looks, there is a technical side that blogs often lack: knowing the exact ADA guidelines and how tiles can meet them. This blog goes into great detail about the less well-known factors that affect Indian trade.

What the Tile and ADA Scene Looks Like: Statistics and Rules

Market Growth: The global market for building materials is expected to reach USD 36.8 billion by 2027, growing at a rate of 8.4% per year

Important ADA Rules for floor surfaces are:

Slip Resistance: The Americans with Disabilities Act Accessibility Guidelines (ADAAG) say that in accessible areas, the Coefficient of Friction (COF) must be at least 0.60 when it is dry. This makes sure that people who use wheelchairs, walkers, or canes can get around safely.

Reducing Glare: For comfortable viewing, specular reflection (the amount of light reflected from a surface) shouldn’t be higher than 0.3. This is especially important for people who have trouble seeing.

Tactile Detectability: The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) calls for tactile paving (textured tiles) to be used as warning surfaces at changes in level, on steps, and on stairs.

Taking on the Challenge: Indian tile makers are in a good position to take advantage of this chance. This is why:

Technical Knowledge: The biggest Indian tile makers are putting a lot of money into research and development to make tiles that meet or beat the ADA standards for slip resistance, glare reduction, and durability.

Product Variety: Indian makers make a wide range of ADA-compliant products, from vitrified tiles with high COF values to coated tiles with controlled reflectivity.

Cost-Competitiveness: Indian tiles often have higher prices than their Western counterparts, offering first-class quality and compliance at appealing prices.

More Than the Basics: Considerations That Aren’t Common

While most blogs focus on basic obedience, let’s look at some less well-known factors:

Indian makers are pushing the limits of what is possible with new tile formats like interlocking pavers for easy use in outdoor areas and self-cleaning antibacterial tiles for better cleanliness.

Customization: The ability to change color, length, and style gives designers more freedom with planning while still following the rules, and meeting the specific needs of each project.

What it means for Indian exporters is a win-win

If Indian tile exporters put ADA compliance and expertise in technology first, 

they can:

Reach a wider audience: Sell useful building materials in the rich foreign market. Improve their brand’s reputation by showing that they can be trusted to provide beautiful, functional tiles.

Form Strategic Partnerships: Work together with builders, planners, and building companies that focus on the areas you have available.

Getting ready for a future where everyone is welcome
Indian tiles have the potential to change the mobility landscape, and not just by changing the building rules; they can also do this by offering new and long-lasting solutions.

Indian tile exporters can take advantage of this growing chance by knowing the market’s trends and the finer points of technology. They can make places more welcoming while also moving their businesses forward. Remember that accessibility isn’t just about following the rules; it’s also about making the world a place where everyone can move around easily and without fear.

Empire Surfaces’ Plan for Spaces That Are Open to Everyone

Empire Surfaces doesn’t just sell tiles; we’re also leading the way in making design more approachable. In addition to following ADA guidelines, we are also committed to offering solutions that are sustainable, flexible, and new. Help us create places that are easy for everyone to use, look good, and use the latest technology. Let’s make the world a place where every space shows acceptance, great style, and unmatched quality.