How to Install Fastmount Clips: Step-by-Step Guide [2026]

How to Install Fastmount Clips: Step-by-Step Guide

This guide explains, step by step, how to install Fastmount clips for concealed panel mounting. It covers everything from preparing your tools to the final fitting of the panel, with drill bit tables by range, common mistakes and official installation videos. If you have never worked with invisible fixing clips or need a reminder before starting a job, here you have everything you need.

Anyone with a drill, a screwdriver and basic DIY skills can install Fastmount clips with professional results. No specialist training or complex machinery is needed.

Basic concepts: female, male and how they join

Before you start, it is essential to understand the two parts of the system:

  • Female clip: fixed to the STRUCTURE (the wall, the ceiling, the bulkhead, the frame, the metal framing). It is the receiving part that remains permanently anchored to the support.
  • Male clip: fixed to the PANEL (the decorative piece, the lining, the access hatch). It is the part that enters the female when the panel is fitted.

When you bring the panel up to the structure, the male clip enters the female clip and is held with an audible click. To remove the panel, simply pull it: the surfaces are not damaged and the alignment stays exact every time it is refitted.

The clips are fixed using three possible methods: self-tapping (they screw directly into timber, board or MDF), with a screw (for any substrate that accepts screws) or with adhesive/epoxy (for surface mounting on materials that cannot be drilled). There are no other fixing methods.

Tools needed

For a basic installation you need:

General tools

  • Drill with speed and torque control (a standard drill-driver will do)
  • Drill bits of the right diameter for each range (see the drill bit table below)
  • Screwdriver Phillips or Torx, depending on the clip model
  • Tape measure to mark the positions
  • Carpenter's pencil to mark the drilling points
  • Spirit level to check the alignment
  • Vacuum cleaner or blower to clear drilling swarf before inserting the clips

Fastmount-specific tools

Fastmount makes 27 installation tools designed for each range. They are not compulsory for a basic installation, but they make the job much easier, especially on projects with many clips. The three most useful are:

  • CT-01 Insertion Tool: an insertion tool for pushing self-tapping female clips into their hole in a controlled way without damaging the part. Essential when installing dozens or hundreds of clips.
  • CT-05 Centering Pin: a center point placed temporarily in the female to mark the exact position of the male on the panel. It guarantees perfect alignment between female and male without measuring.
  • CP-01ST Centering Point: center point for the Standard range. It is inserted into the PC-F1A or PC-SF1 female once installed and, when the panel is pressed against it, it leaves an exact mark where the male must be placed.

For shipyard projects or large-scale installations, Fastmount offers the CT-08 Yard Kit, a case with all the tools needed to work with all the ranges.

See all Fastmount installation tools

Step 1: Installing the female clip on the structure

The female clip is the first part to be installed, always on the fixed structure: the wall, the bulkhead, the ceiling or the frame. The process varies depending on the type of female and the substrate.

Self-tapping female (example: PC-F1A, LP-F8)

This is the most common type for structures of timber, board, MDF and plywood. The PC-F1A is the universal female of the Standard range.

  1. Mark the position on the structure where each clip will go. Respect the recommended spacing (one clip every 300-400 mm around the perimeter of the panel for the Standard range; see the table of clips per square metre below).
  2. Drill the hole with a bit of the correct diameter. For the PC-F1A, the hole is 16,8 mm with a depth of about 14 mm. Clear the swarf.
  3. Insert the female into the hole, pushing firmly or using the CT-01 tool. The female self-taps into the material with the external threads on its body. Make sure it sits flush with the surface.
  4. Check that the female is properly level and does not stick out. If it sticks out, push a little further; if it sits too deep, the male clip might not engage properly.

Important: self-tapping females such as the PC-F1A and the LP-F8 only work in timber, board and MDF. They cannot self-tap into aluminium or fibreglass. For the LP-F8 in fibreglass, the hole can be pre-threaded with a 27x3 mm tap.

Surface female with screw (example: PC-SF1, PC-AF1)

Used when the structure is made of a material that accepts screws but where self-tapping is not viable, or when the female needs to be accessible from the front.

  1. Position the female on the surface of the structure.
  2. Mark and pre-drill the holes for the fixing screws.
  3. Screw the female in place with the screws supplied or recommended. The PC-SF1 can be mounted in two configurations: front (screwed from the front, leaves a 15 mm gap to the substrate, needs a minimum board thickness of 6 mm) or rear (from behind, 15 mm hole to pass the round part through).
  4. The PC-AF1 (Auto Fit) is always fitted with screws. It needs a minimum of 15 mm of structure and allows 5 mm of lateral adjustment to compensate for panel margins and absorb thermal expansion. It does not correct unevenness in the structure.

Female for concrete or brick (PC-DC1)

The PC-DC1 is not a clip: it is a wall anchor (like a conventional concrete wall plug). It is inserted into the hole drilled in the brick or concrete wall, and the PC-F1A female is then screwed into the anchor.

  1. Drill the hole in the wall with a masonry bit of the stated diameter.
  2. Insert the PC-DC1 anchor into the hole.
  3. Screw the PC-F1A female into the anchor.

SLX female for plasterboard

If the structure is plasterboard (gypsum board) already installed, the recommended range is always SLX. The SLX-F40T female (for plywood and marine) or the SLX-F40R (for architecture and surface) is inserted into the board. Plasterboard plugs are not included and must be bought separately.

If the structure is Knauf metal framing (without plasterboard), the clip used is the SL-FB1 from the StratLock range, which pushes into the metal U channel.

Step 2: Installing the male clip on the panel

The male clip is always fixed to the decorative panel (the part that will be fitted and removed). The process depends on the type of male chosen.

Using center points (recommended method)

This is the most reliable method to guarantee perfect alignment between females and males:

  1. Install all the females on the structure following step 1.
  2. Place a center point (CT-05 or CP-01ST depending on the range) in each installed female.
  3. Offer up the panel in its final position and press it against the structure. The center points leave a precise mark on the back face of the panel.
  4. Remove the panel. At each mark, drill the hole of the correct diameter for the male (see the drill bit table).
  5. Insert or screw in the male in each hole in the panel.

This method eliminates measuring errors and ensures that each male is exactly aligned with its corresponding female.

Self-tapping male (example: PC-M1B, LP-M8A)

For panels made of timber, board or MDF. The hole is drilled in the panel and the male is pushed in or screwed in. The PC-M1B (load up to 5 kg) is the basic male of the Standard range. For panels of up to 10 kg, use the PC-M2H (heavy duty, minimum panel thickness 9-10 mm).

Surface male (example: PC-SM2, PC-SM2H)

For panels where you cannot or do not want to drill the decorative face. The PC-SM2 is fixed with epoxy or polyurethane to the back face of the panel. The PC-SM2H is the heavy-duty version.

Load considerations

Choose the male according to the weight of the panel and how often it will be removed:

  • Frequent removal (regular access to services): males with up to 10 kg of pull-out force. More force would make regular access impractical.
  • Occasional removal (periodic maintenance): males of 10-18 kg.
  • Rare removal or permanent panel: males of 18-25 kg. These clips have a lot of retaining force and are not suitable for frequently accessed panels.

Step 3: Joining the panel to the structure

With the females installed on the structure and the males installed on the panel, fitting is immediate:

  1. Align the panel with the structure. If you have used center points, there is only one possible position: there is no way to fit the panel crooked or out of place.
  2. Bring the panel closer until the males start to enter the females. You will feel slight resistance.
  3. Press firmly until you hear a click. That click confirms that the clip has engaged correctly. Press over each clip to make sure they have all closed.
  4. Check that the panel is level, aligned and with no play. If you use Vario clips (PC-VM1, PC-VMX) or Auto Fit (PC-AF1), you can make a fine adjustment of the position before signing off the installation.

Do not use tools to force the connection. If the panel does not go in with moderate hand pressure, check that the positions of the females and males match and that there are no obstacles (swarf, dirt, misalignment).

Step 4: Removing the panel

One of the great advantages of Fastmount is how easy it is to remove the panel:

  1. Find an edge or corner of the panel where you can lever with your fingers or with a Fastmount removal tool.
  2. Pull the panel towards you with a firm, continuous movement. The clips disengage cleanly.
  3. If the panel has many clips or is large, start at one end and work progressively towards the other. Do not try to pull the whole panel off at once.
  4. The clips stay in place: the females remain on the structure and the males remain on the panel. No parts are lost and nothing needs to be reassembled.

Fastmount clips are designed for thousands of installation and removal cycles without significant mechanical wear. Unlike Velcro, they do not lose strength with use or over time.

Drill bit and hole table by range

Each Fastmount range requires a specific hole diameter. Using the wrong bit will leave the clip loose (hole too big) or stop it going in (hole too small). This table summarises the main diameters:

Range Female clip Female hole Min. depth Male clip Male hole Notes
Standard (PC) PC-F1A 16,8 mm ~14 mm PC-M1B / PC-M2H 16,8 mm Self-tapping into timber/MDF. PC-M2H: min. panel 9-10 mm
Standard surface PC-SF1 15 mm (rear mounting) 6 mm (front) PC-SM2 / PC-SM2H No hole (bonded) PC-SF1 front: 15 mm gap. PC-SM2: epoxy or polyurethane
Low Profile (LP) LP-F8 25 mm ~9 mm LP-M8A / LP-SM8H / LP-SMX 25 mm (M8A) In fibreglass: pre-thread with a 27x3 mm tap. Min. structure 9 mm
LP Auto Fit LP-AF8A 35 mm ~10.5 mm LP-M8A / LP-SM8H / LP-SMX 25 mm 360-degree lateral adjustment. CSK #4 screw or bonded. Min. 9 mm
Very Low Profile (VL) VL-F3 / VL-F3H See technical data sheet Variable (recessed or not) VL-M3 / VL-M3H / VL-M3X See technical data sheet VL-F3: 5 kg pull-out. VL-F3H (Heavy Duty): 10 kg pull-out
StratLock (SL) SL-FA / SL-SFA / SL-FB1 Depending on model Variable SL-M10 / SL-M18 Depending on model SL-FB1: only for Knauf framing or SL-RLE rail. With screw
SLX SLX-F40T / SLX-F40R 40 mm Variable SLX-M5 to SLX-M25 Depending on model F40T: plywood/marine. F40R: architecture/surface. Up to 8 mm of adjustment
Metal (MC) MC-SSF10B / MC-NPF10 Depending on model Variable MC-SSM10B / MC-NPM10 Depending on model Fixed with a SCREW (not self-tapping). SS = marine 316 stainless steel

Tip: if you do not have a bit of the exact diameter, it is better to go slightly under (half a millimetre less) and adjust with a file than to go over. A hole that is too big cannot be corrected.

For the VL, StratLock, SLX and Metal ranges, the technical data sheets for each reference include the exact diameters. You can find them on each product page on our website or request them from our technical team.

How many clips do I need per square metre

The number of clips depends on the range and the type of installation:

Range Pairs per m² Notes
Standard (PC) ~18 pairs One clip every 300-400 mm around the perimeter of the panel
Low Profile (LP) ~18 pairs Same layout as Standard
Very Low Profile (VL) ~18 pairs Same layout as Standard
StratLock (SL) ~8 pairs Fewer clips thanks to the rail system. 2.5 metres of rail per m²
SLX ~8 pairs Lower density thanks to the higher individual load capacity

These values are a guide. The exact number depends on the weight of the panel, its size and the type of installation (ceiling, vertical wall, access panel). For specific projects, contact our technical team for an accurate calculation.

Common mistakes and how to avoid them

1. Mixing up female and male

The most common beginner's mistake. Always remember: female = structure, male = panel. If you fit them the other way round, the system works mechanically but removing the panel will be much more difficult and refitting will not line up. Never swap the positions.

2. Using the wrong drill bit

A hole that is too big means the self-tapping clip does not grip and stays loose. A hole that is too small prevents insertion and can damage the clip when forced. See the drill bit table and always use the exact recommended diameter.

3. Not clearing the swarf before inserting the clip

Swarf or sawdust left in the hole stops the clip from seating properly. Vacuum or blow out the hole before inserting each clip.

4. Not using center points

Trying to align females and males by measuring by hand is slow, inaccurate and a source of errors. Center points (CT-05, CP-01ST) exist precisely to solve this: you fit the female, insert the point, offer up the panel and you have the exact mark for the male. The difference between an installation with center points and one without is huge.

5. Self-tapping into incompatible materials

Self-tapping females (PC-F1A, LP-F8) only work in timber, board and MDF. If you try to self-tap a PC-F1A into aluminium or fibreglass, the clip will not grip and will come out. For those materials, use screw-fixed females (PC-SF1, PC-AF1) or check the specific instructions in each technical data sheet.

6. Fitting clips to plasterboard without the right range

If the structure is plasterboard (gypsum board), the recommended range is always SLX. Although technically other clips could be fixed into plasterboard, SLX is designed specifically for this substrate and offers the right performance and reliability. Plasterboard plugs must be bought separately.

7. Not respecting the minimum panel thickness

Each male requires a minimum panel thickness. For example, the PC-M2H needs a panel of at least 9-10 mm. If the panel is thinner, the male will stick out of the decorative face or will not have enough material to grip.

8. Forcing the connection with tools

If the panel does not go in with hand pressure, something is wrong: misaligned positions, swarf in the clips or a badly inserted clip. Never use a hammer or force the connection. Check the positions, clean the clips and try again.

9. Choosing clips that are too strong for frequently accessed panels

A clip with 25 kg of pull-out force is very hard to remove by hand. If the panel needs to be removed often (to reach electrical or plumbing services), use males of up to 10 kg of force. The higher forces are for panels that are removed rarely or are permanent.

10. Thinking that the PC-AF1 corrects unevenness in the structure

The PC-AF1 (Auto Fit) allows 5 mm of adjustment, but its purpose is to adjust the panel margins and absorb expansion due to temperature or moisture. It does not correct irregularities or unevenness in the bulkhead or wall. If the structure is not flat, it must be levelled before installing the clips.

Frequently asked questions about installing Fastmount

Do I need a professional to install Fastmount clips?

No. Anyone with a drill, a screwdriver and basic DIY skills can install Fastmount clips with professional results. The specific tools (center points, insertion tool) make the job easier but are not essential for a basic installation.

Which female should I use if the structure is aluminium?

Self-tapping females (PC-F1A, LP-F8) do not work in aluminium. Use screw-fixed females such as the PC-SF1 (surface) or the PC-AF1 (Auto Fit). Any screw-fixed female is compatible with aluminium, fibreglass and timber.

Can I replace a damaged clip without dismantling the whole installation?

Yes. Remove the panel (very easy with Fastmount), take out the damaged clip and fit a new one in the same hole. The rest of the clips remain intact.

Do Fastmount clips work outdoors?

Yes. All Fastmount clips work indoors and outdoors. For exteriors in a marine environment, the 316 stainless steel clips (MC-SSF10B + MC-SSM10B) are the first choice for their maximum resistance to salt corrosion, but the other polymer ranges also withstand exterior use.

How long does it take to install a complete panel?

It depends on the size and the number of clips. As a guide, an experienced installer can prepare and fit a 600 x 2450 mm wall panel with 8-10 clips in about 15-20 minutes (drilling, inserting the females, centring the males and fitting). Fitting the panel itself (step 3) literally takes 2 seconds: one click and it is done.

Are there fire-rated Fastmount clips for regulatory compliance?

Yes. The Very Low Profile, StratLock and SLX ranges offer Fire Rated (FR) certified versions that comply with marine (SOLAS/MED) and building fire regulations. This is compulsory on commercial vessels and in many public buildings.

What happens if the panel expands or contracts with temperature?

Auto Fit clips (PC-AF1, LP-AF8A) absorb the dimensional changes of the panel caused by temperature and moisture. The SLX range offers up to 8 mm of tolerance. For timber or composite panels exposed to significant temperature changes, we recommend using these adjustable models.

Can I reuse the clips if I change the panels?

Yes. The females stay on the structure and can receive new panels with new males. The clips have no significant mechanical wear in normal use and are designed to last for the service life of the structure.

Fastmount installation videos

The following official videos show the installation process for the different Fastmount ranges. They are the best complement to this written guide:

Standard range: complete installation tutorial

Standard range: quick wall mounting

Low Profile range: installation in tight spaces

Very Low Profile range: ultra-thin profile

StratLock range: heavy panels with rails

SLX range: installation on plasterboard and in architecture

Where to buy Fastmount clips and installation tools

La Tienda Naval is the official Fastmount distributor for Spain and Portugal, based in Palma de Mallorca. We have stock of every reference with delivery in 24-72 hours in Spain and Portugal. If an item is temporarily out of stock, one week at most.

If you are unsure which clips you need or how to plan the installation, contact us:

  • Phone: +34 971 253 950
  • Website: latiendanaval.es
  • Fastmount website: fastmount.es
  • Address: Camino de Jesus 21-22, Pol. Ind. Can Valero, 07011 Palma de Mallorca
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