Should we rid the world of overlays?
If you have ever wondered what is an overlay and whether it helps with accessibility, the answer may surprise you. These tools promise to solve accessibility problems automatically, but often fail every WCAG compliant principle that matters.
What Is An Overlay And Why It Is Not WCAG Compliant
An overlay is a layer of code added to a website to introduce extra features or functionality. Some overlays are helpful, like live chat tools or online booking calendars. We use those ourselves. Others claim to "make your site accessible" by adding a control panel for text size, colour changes, or keyboard navigation.
This sounds good in theory. In practice, it does not deliver. These accessibility overlays interfere with existing code, block screen readers, and often break basic functions like forms.
How Overlays Create Barriers Instead Of WCAG Compliant Access
If an overlay is optional and your website still works without it, that is one thing. But if the overlay is the only way to complete a task, like submitting a form or booking a call, then you are creating a barrier. This is where the site will often fail a WCAG compliant test.
Mede, one of our testers, is blind and uses JAWS, a screen reader. She once filled in a form on a site using an overlay. The message confirming submission flashed on screen, but her screen reader did not detect it. She thought it had failed and submitted it again. The result was two forms, submitted in confusion.
Overlays Are Not WCAG Compliant Solutions
It is a common myth that overlays make websites accessible. They do not. They hide the problem without fixing the code underneath. Real accessibility comes from how the website is built. It must meet WCAG standards in the structure, not rely on patchwork scripts.
Overlay tools often:
- Do not work with screen readers
- Block native browser accessibility functions
- Create keyboard traps
- Fail WCAG reflow and input guidelines
- Conflict with responsive design
No WCAG compliant audit will pass a site just because an overlay is present. In fact, overlays are one of the biggest red flags.
What You Can Do Today If Your Overlay Is Not WCAG Compliant
If your site currently uses an overlay and you cannot afford to rebuild it right away, you can still take a positive step. Use your accessibility statement to explain where the issues are and offer support. This could be as simple as a direct email or phone number for disabled users. Just acknowledging the problem makes you more inclusive.
Want A Real Solution?
Watch our TEDx Talk on accessibility. It is a clear, honest explanation of what website accessibility really means and why it matters.
You can also visit our dedicated site: https://accessibilityaudit.co.uk
If you want a professional opinion, we offer a free consultation. Book yours today: Calendly booking link
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If you are wondering what is an overlay or how to be WCAG compliant, the key is to test properly and build accessibly from the start. We can help.
