Historic buildings possess unique charm and cultural significance, often serving as physical links to our past. They’re filled with the designs of times gone by and memories of events long past. However, these structures can present significant accessibility challenges due to vastly different building designs and codes compared to the modern day. Updating these buildings to meet modern accessibility standards involves navigating a complex landscape of building codes and historical preservation requirements while balancing efforts not to detract from the physical appearance. We’ll discuss the specific accessibility issues faced by historic buildings, the regulatory considerations they face, and how to address these challenges with innovative solutions from EZ-ACCESS®.
Unique Accessibility Issues in Historic Buildings
- Structural Limitations: Historic buildings often have structural limitations that complicate the implementation of accessibility solutions. Narrow doorways, steep staircases, and uneven floors are common features that can hinder the movement of individuals with disabilities. Additionally, these buildings may lack space for installing standard accessibility equipment, such as elevators or ADA-compliant ramps. The materials used to construct these buildings could be more fragile or deteriorated due to the effects of time, making installation of additional accessibility components difficult.
- Architectural Preservation: Preserving the architectural integrity of historic buildings is crucial. Any modifications must be sensitive to the original design and materials, ensuring that the building’s historical value is maintained. This requirement can limit the types of alterations that can be made and necessitates creative solutions to integrate accessibility features seamlessly. This is especially true for buildings specifically preserved for their design elements such as those by famous architects. Any accessibility solutions must be considered carefully during the design process.
- Outdated Infrastructure: Many historic buildings have outdated infrastructure, including electrical and plumbing systems that may not support modern accessibility equipment. Depending on what is installed, there can be significant work required to add or enhance existing infrastructure. Upgrading these systems can be costly and complex, requiring careful planning and coordination with preservation authorities to avoid destroying the integrity of the property.
Regulatory Considerations for Historical Buildings
- Building Codes and Historical Preservation Requirements: Building codes for historic buildings can vary widely depending on the location and the specific regulations governing historic preservation. Generally, these codes often require that any modifications to improve accessibility do not detract from the building’s historical character. Understanding and complying with these codes is essential for any renovation project. Historical preservation requirements are designed to protect the cultural and architectural significance of historic buildings. These requirements can impose limitations on the types of modifications allowed. For example, the installation of a new ramp or lift may need to be approved by preservation authorities to balance any alteration of the building’s physical appearance.
- ADA Compliance: While the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) provides guidelines for accessibility, historic buildings may be granted some alternatives. They are still obligated to make these buildings as accessible as possible without compromising their historical value. Working within these guidelines requires a careful balance between accessibility and preservation. At a minimum, historical buildings should have at least one accessible route from the parking lot to an accessible entrance. There should be at least one accessible entryway for public use, whether it’s the actual public entrance or an alternative one used specifically in instances where accessibility needs must be met. There must also be a directly accessible route to a restroom. For those buildings with plaques or signage like exhibits or historical markers, those displays need to be visible for someone seated in a wheelchair. State Historic Preservation Officers (SHPOs) are officials who work under the National Historic Preservation Act to help determine the degree of ADA compliance a historic building must meet, and they may help provide guidance on how to achieve those measures.
Addressing Accessibility Issues in Historic Buildings With Custom Solutions
With the unique nature of historical buildings, from narrow doorways to steep stairs and uncommon exteriors, custom solutions for accessibility are the best path forward. EZ-ACCESS is the industry leader in providing customized accessibility solutions such as wheelchair ramps that meet the unique needs of historic buildings. Our team works closely with customers to develop tailored plans that enhance accessibility while preserving the building’s historical integrity. We are a US-based company with all of our Customer Service, Research and Development (R&D), Manufacturing, and Distribution teams located right here in the States. This allows us to have a deep understanding of accessibility design specific to the US market.
We can help with the site assessment process to understand the specific challenges and requirements of each building. Once the structure has been inspected, we will discuss the needs you’re looking to meet and craft a tailored plan to make it happen. Our R&D team creates custom solutions that can blend with the building’s architecture, ensuring both functionality and aesthetic appeal. EZ-ACCESS makes turning historical buildings into accessible spaces much simpler than trying to manage it on your own. With us, you have a partner through each and every step who is just as invested in the best outcome as you are.
Innovative Accessibility Solutions for Historic Buildings
We have a range of innovative products designed to address the accessibility challenges of historic buildings. Our aluminum accessibility solutions are particularly well-suited for these environments due to their durability, flexibility, and low maintenance requirements.
- PATHWAY HD® Code Compliant Modular Ramp: This aluminum product is a completely customizable ramp that interfaces with platforms and stairs for comprehensive solutions. Having a wheelchair ramp with the proper slope, handrails for security, and safe platforms for resting or turning elevates accessibility immensely. The PATHWAY HD is the ideal solution for historic buildings for several reasons. Aluminum is a strong yet lightweight material, making these components easy to install and remove without causing damage to the building. Whether used long-term or temporarily, the PATHWAY HD Code Compliant Modular Ramp won’t be a burden. Aluminum is also naturally resistant to corrosion, ensuring long-lasting performance even in challenging environments. While wood needs care and attention to prevent rotting, splinters, and discoloration, aluminum needs no more than basic cleaning. Wood also needs frequent sealing or replacement, while aluminum lasts far longer. The PATHWAY HD can be customized to fit the specific dimensions and design requirements of any historic building. The flexibility we offer when designing to your needs means you get a perfect fit for any space.
- PATHWAY® HD Code Compliant Modular Stairs: Ramps aren’t the only ADA-compliant option for accessibility in your historic building. Some points of access may benefit from or require stairs, which is where the PATHWAY HD Code Compliant Modular Stairs come into play. Our aluminum stairs are built with ADA specifications in mind including appropriate step height and width as well as secure handrails. Like our other products, the lightweight aluminum build is simple to install and will have a long lifespan, letting you put your attention toward maintaining the historic features of the property instead. The slip-resistant surface will keep all your patrons safe, no matter the weather.
- Threshold Ramps: Even the small parts of accessibility can make a huge difference in visitors’ experiences. Consider doorways, thresholds, or changes in height between rooms. Even an inch difference can be difficult to navigate with a mobility device. The TRANSITIONS® Angled Entry Mat is a gently sloped rubber mat that’s slip-resistant and decreases the barrier between unlevel rooms. With the ability to trim or notch the material to perfectly fit the threshold, this mat is one of the easiest steps you can take toward accessibility. Requiring next to no effort to install, it can also be easily removed when needed.
Making historic buildings accessible is a complex but essential task that requires a careful balance between preserving architectural heritage and meeting modern accessibility standards. EZ-ACCESS is committed to providing innovative and customized solutions that address the unique challenges of historic buildings. Our aluminum ramps, stairs, and threshold solutions are designed to enhance accessibility without compromising the building’s historical integrity.