Compression molded vs. raster / applied tactile

Applied characters are assembled onto the substrate. Ours are formed from it.

Raster or applied tactile signs use pre-made raised characters — typically acrylic or plastic discs — that are applied to a flat substrate with adhesive or mechanical fasteners. The process is fast and flexible, but the construction is assembled, not formed.

Compression Molded (CMA)

Single-piece construction — no assembly, no adhesive bonds
Characters and braille formed integrally from the acrylic
Lifetime warranty
No risk of individual characters loosening or falling off
Consistent character height and braille profile across the sign

Raster / applied tactile

Individual characters applied to a substrate — each one is a potential failure point
Adhesive bonds degrade over time, especially in exterior applications
Individual characters can loosen, shift, or fall off
Warranty typically limited and excludes adhesive failure
Character alignment depends on application quality

Applied tactile signs are the most common ADA sign construction method in the market. They are also the most common source of ADA sign failures in the field. Compression molded acrylic eliminates the failure mode entirely by eliminating the assembly.

Feel the difference — request a sample Back to Why Compression Molded