Frequently Asked Questions about Fastmount
Everything you need to know about the concealed panel mounting system
What is the Fastmount system?
Fastmount is a professional concealed panel mounting system developed in New Zealand since 2003. It uses a two-part mechanism —male clip and female clip— that allows wall, ceiling, furniture and upholstery panels to be fixed completely invisibly. The clips engage with a simple click, offering automatic alignment, non-sequential removal (any panel can be removed without touching the adjacent ones) and flawless finishes. The range includes: Standard, Low Profile, Very Low Profile, Stratlock, SLX, Metal, Textile and Panel Control.
How does the Fastmount clip system work?
It works in three steps: 1) The female clips are installed on the substrate (wall, ceiling or structure) by self-tapping, conventional screws or adhesive. 2) The male clips are fixed to the back of the panel. 3) The panel is offered up and pressed gently until a click confirms engagement. The self-aligning design automatically guarantees the perfect position. To remove it, simply unclip the panel, without tools in most ranges.
Which product ranges does Fastmount offer?
Fastmount offers 8 ranges: Standard Range (5-15 kg pull-out, versatile fixing for walls and ceilings); Low Profile Range (5-15 kg, minimum panel-to-substrate distance, ideal for plasterboard and curved surfaces); Very Low Profile Range (5-10 kg, only 3 mm gap, fire-rated version available); Stratlock Range (up to 18 kg, rail system for heavy panels with 360-degree adjustment); SLX Range (5-25 kg, 6 mm adjustability, UL-94 fire-rated version); Metal Range (5-10 kg, includes 304 stainless steel); Textile Range (up to 32 kg breaking load, for cushions and upholstery); and Panel Control Range (PanelSafe retention system for ceilings, including a seismic version).
In which sectors is Fastmount used?
Fastmount is used in architecture and interior design (hotels, offices, shops, hospitals, luxury residences); marine (yacht and superyacht interiors and exteriors); furniture (backrests, headboards, modular panels); recreational vehicles (motorhomes); aviation (private jets); and retail and exhibitions (shops, trade-fair stands). It is the standard in the marine industry and is increasingly adopted in contract architecture.
What are the main advantages over traditional systems?
Completely concealed fixing with no visible screws; quick installation that cuts time and costs; non-sequential removal (any panel can be removed independently); off-site panel preparation compatible with CNC; easy access to concealed services for maintenance; more than 500 mounting/removal cycles without deterioration; a self-aligning system that compensates for variations; and panel flexibility that absorbs expansion, extending its service life.
How do I choose the right clips for my project?
The choice depends on the weight and thickness of the panel, the type of substrate (plasterboard, timber, metal, fibreglass), the space available between panel and substrate, the expected frequency of removal and special requirements (fire resistance, corrosion). Fastmount has an online Clip Selector at fastmount.com. In Spain and Portugal, the official distributor Riviera Trade S.L. provides personalised technical advice through fastmount.es and panelclip.es.
Does Fastmount have fire-rated clips?
Yes. The Very Low Profile range includes certified fire-rated versions (VL-M3FR / VL-F3FR). The SLX range offers UL-94 clips that comply with ASTM E119. The Stratlock range is suitable for high-resistance fire-rated installations. The Metal range with 304 stainless steel offers improved fire performance. The final rating depends on the complete assembly (panel + substrate + installation).
How many mounting/removal cycles can the clips withstand?
Under normal conditions and with proper technique, Fastmount clips withstand more than 500 cycles without significant deterioration. This durability has been proven in demanding marine environments where panels are frequently removed for maintenance.
What pull-out loads do the clips support?
Loads vary by range: Standard 5-15 kg; Low Profile 5-15 kg; Very Low Profile 5-10 kg; Metal 5-10 kg; Stratlock up to 18 kg (higher shear resistance); SLX 5-25 kg (panels up to 75 kg); Textile up to 32 kg breaking load. All clips are tested by the independent laboratory SGS.
Is it compatible with CNC machining?
Yes, fully compatible. The dimensional accuracy of the clips allows exact positions to be programmed on CNC, ensuring uniform spacing and correct orientation. This makes it possible to integrate clip preparation into automated workflows, both in bespoke projects and in series production.
Can it be used on hardwood, fibreglass or laminates?
Yes, with specific techniques for each material. For very dense timbers: 10.5-11 mm hole + epoxy adhesive. For MDF: 1.5 mm countersink with CT-12. For fibreglass: tapping with CT-15 + countersinking with CT-12. For extremely hard materials: surface-mount clips or the Metal range. A preliminary test on a sample is always recommended.
Do panels sag over time?
No, as long as the Fastmount Clip Layout Guides are followed. It is essential that panels are balanced (both faces sealed, painted or veneered equally) to avoid warping that strains the clips. An unbalanced panel can warp and come away at the centre.
Is it suitable for exterior installations?
Yes, with the right selection. In the marine sector, Fastmount is widely used on yacht exteriors exposed to salt water, UV and extreme conditions. For specific exterior uses, we recommend consulting the distributor to ensure the right product is selected for the project's environmental conditions.
Where can I buy Fastmount in Spain and Portugal?
The official distributor in Spain and Portugal is Riviera Trade S.L. You can buy through fastmount.es (general website), panelclip.es (architecture and contract) and latiendanaval.es (marine sector). The team offers technical advice, project specification support, after-sales service and trial kits.
Are there trial kits for new users?
Yes, Fastmount offers Trial Kits with clip samples, instructions and tools to evaluate the system before placing larger orders. They are ideal for architects, contractors and designers. In Spain and Portugal, request them through Riviera Trade S.L.
What warranty do Fastmount products have?
Fastmount offers a 2-year warranty covering manufacturing defects, provided the products are used in accordance with the technical specifications.
What installation tools does Fastmount offer?
Fastmount offers precision tools for each range: carbide drill bits (CT-01 10 mm, CT-07 16.8 mm step drill); installation tools (CT-10); removal tools (CT-05, CT-05H); center points (CP-01ST, CP-08ST, VL-CP3, MC-CP5); taps (CT-15, CT-22) for hardwoods; and clip layout guides for correct spacing.
Is it important for both faces of the panel to have the same finish?
Yes, it is essential. An unbalanced panel (finished on one face only) will tend to warp, bow or twist, putting excessive pressure on the clips. This can cause large panels to come loose at the centre. Both faces must be sealed, painted or veneered in a balanced way to ensure stability.
Can adhesive clips be used instead of screw-fixed ones?
Yes, Fastmount offers male clips with adhesive fixing that incorporate the SuperGroove system, which locks mechanically into two-component epoxy adhesive. This is ideal when drilling is not possible or the integrity of the substrate needs to be preserved. We recommend testing compatibility with the adhesive and the material before the full installation.
Can I reduce the number of clips if my panel is light?
No. The clip layout recommendations are designed for uniform holding that guarantees a flawless look and maximum safety. Using fewer clips can cause bowing between fixing points, compromising appearance and safety. Always follow the Fastmount Clip Layout Guides.
Need advice for your project?
As the official Fastmount distributor in Spain and Portugal, we help you choose the perfect system.
Contact Riviera Trade