Which texturing technique is encouraged by the ADA to indicate changes in grades?

The recommended texturing technique encouraged by the ADA to indicate changes in grades is the use of color changes. This approach helps create visual contrasts that alert individuals with visual impairments to changes in elevation or slope, thereby enhancing overall accessibility. By employing different colors in surfaces, it assists individuals in recognizing when they are transitioning from a flat surface to a slope or other grade changes.

Color changes are beneficial because they can be easily identified and understood without the need for specialized equipment, making them an effective and inclusive design strategy for environments used by diverse populations, including those with disabilities.

While other options, such as sound indicators and change of surface material, may contribute to accessibility, they are not as universally applicable or immediate as the use of color changes in indicating grade variations. Ramps, though essential for overcoming elevation differences, do not serve as a proactive indicator of changes in grades. Thus, the choice of using color changes aligns closely with ADA guidelines aimed at improving safety and awareness for individuals navigating different terrains.