What colour tactile paving should I use at a pedestrian crossing?

Buff-coloured blister tactile paving is the standard for all pedestrian crossings in the UK, including controlled (signalised) and uncontrolled crossings. Red tactile paving is reserved exclusively for platform edge warnings at railway and tram stations. Using the wrong colour can confuse visually impaired people who rely on colour contrast to distinguish crossing points from platform edges.

What is the difference between blister and corduroy tactile paving?

Blister surfaces have flat-topped domes (blisters) arranged in a regular grid pattern and are used at pedestrian crossings to indicate the transition from footway to carriageway. Corduroy surfaces have parallel raised ribs (like corduroy fabric) and are used as hazard warnings at the top and bottom of steps, at level crossings, and where a footpath meets a shared cycle route. Each surface type conveys a different message to visually impaired pedestrians.

How deep should tactile paving extend from the kerb?

At controlled crossings (pelican, puffin, toucan), the blister surface should extend 800mm back from the kerb face. At uncontrolled crossings, it should also be 800mm deep. For platform edge warnings, the blister strip should be 400mm deep, set back 500mm from the platform edge. Corduroy hazard warning at steps should be 800mm deep, starting 400mm from the top or bottom step nosing.

What are the blister dimensions for tactile paving?

Standard blister tactile pavers have flat-topped blisters that are 5mm high (±0.5mm) with a diameter of 25mm at the top. Blisters are spaced at 66.5mm centres in a regular grid pattern. These dimensions are specified in the Department for Transport guidance document "Guidance on the Use of Tactile Paving Surfaces" and ensure the surface is detectable underfoot and by a long cane.

Tactile Paving Calculator — Blister & Corduroy Surface Quantities

How We Calculate This

This calculator determines the quantity of tactile paving units needed based on UK Department for Transport guidance on tactile paving surfaces. It covers blister and corduroy surfaces for crossings, platforms, and hazard warnings.

Surface type selection

The calculator automatically recommends the correct surface type based on the application:

Blister surface: Controlled crossings, uncontrolled crossings, shared surfaces, platform edges
Corduroy surface: Top and bottom of steps, hazard warnings

Colour guidance

Buff: Standard for all pedestrian crossings and most hazard warnings
Red: Exclusively for railway and tram platform edge warnings

Quantity calculation

The number of pavers is calculated from the crossing width and tactile depth, rounded up to whole pavers. A 10% waste allowance is added for cuts, breakage, and spares. The calculator also estimates bedding material (mortar or adhesive) quantities.

Layout options

For corner crossings, the L-shape layout option calculates material for two perpendicular arms of tactile paving that meet at a corner, accounting for the overlap area.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Last updated: March 2026

All calculations are estimates. Verify with your supplier.

Tactile Paving Calculator - Blister & Corduroy Surface Quantities