As window treatments evolve in creativity, (roman shades, roller shades, etc.) they also develop further complexity as it pertains to ADA accommodations and compliance.

Operators must now consider how reach restrictions and ease of use apply to mechanism with the chain and pull cords. The long dependent loop baton has no place with today’s dual shade and side channels.

As code stipulates, a guest must be able to operate each treatment without the use of a closed fist and requiring no more than five pounds of force during control. Therefore, we must now utilize motorization to obtain code compliance with all clutch and chain driven treatments. Fortunately, shade motorization has improved drastically over the last three years -expanding motor capabilities, extending battery life and decreasing overall cost.

Motorization controls, largely wireless radio frequency, have also lowered the outrageous price points for most operators. No removing of electrical labor and wiring requirements.

Each property law enforcement agency is the ultimate judge and jury as it pertains to code compliance, but we strongly recommend motorization for all vertical moving treatments requiring ADA compliance, while looped batons remain the low-cost option to achieve compliance for horizontal movement. Motorization for drapes remains a bit more elevation optional at this point, even though costs have reduced here as well over the last twenty -four months.

As we have seen more ADA questions for window treatments arise, we have written some resources to help answer any questions you may have on window treatment compliance to ADA regulations. Keep in mind that public area treatments have different requirements.

For More Info…

Check out our post called “Do My Public Area Window Treatments Need To Be ADA Compliant?”

We hope this information has given you a better understanding of your options and will help increase great communication in your future window treatment projects!

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