Concealed Fastener Systems for Aluminum Composite Panel Facades

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A concealed fastener system holds aluminum composite panels (ACP) to the substructure from behind or within the joint, so no screw heads show on the face. It produces a continuous, flush facade that suits architects who want clean lines and a uniform surface. Final fixing details, load and fastener selection are confirmed with the structural engineer for each project.

Why architects choose concealed fixing

Visible screws interrupt the plane of a panel facade and can read as clutter in a minimalist design. Concealed fastening keeps the surface uniform, so the panel joints and reveals become the main visual language of the building.

It also suits projects where finish protection matters. With no exposed heads, there are fewer points where coating can be scratched or where water and dirt collect around fasteners.

How concealed fastener systems work

Most systems use hidden clips, rails or brackets attached to the back or edge of the panel. The panel is slotted or routed so the clip sits inside the thickness of the composite, and the fixing is completed from the rear or from the joint.

Clip or rail placed behind the panel face
Panel edges or back routed to receive the fixing
Substructure aligned to a set grid before installation

The exact arrangement depends on the panel format and the facade geometry.

Design planning before fabrication

Set the panel module, joint width and fixing grid early, as these decisions affect the substructure and the number of hidden points. Coordinate with the facade engineer so that the clip positions match the structure behind.

Plan for thermal movement. Aluminum composite panels expand and contract with temperature, so joints and clip tolerances must allow for movement rather than locking the panel rigidly.

Substructure and tolerances

A concealed system only looks clean if the substructure is accurate. Small misalignments in rails or brackets show up as uneven joints across a large facade, so measurement and levelling on site are critical.

We measure on site, prepare a written specification and drawing, and confirm tolerances with the client before production begins in our Tel Aviv workshop.

Finishing and maintenance access

Panels are finished before installation, and the concealed components are sized to fit behind the finished surface. Consider how a panel can be removed for maintenance or replacement. Some systems allow single-panel removal, while others need adjacent panels moved first.

Discuss access requirements at the design stage so the chosen system fits the building's long-term servicing needs.

Coordinating with the wider project

A concealed fixing system affects the work of several trades, including the envelope, insulation, waterproofing and façade engineer. Early coordination avoids conflicts at the interfaces, especially at corners, openings and parapets.

Confirm fixing grid with the structural engineer
Agree joint and reveal details with the architect
Check interfaces with windows and waterproofing

Frequently asked questions

Does a concealed fastener system look completely seamless?

It produces a flush face with no visible screw heads, so the joints and panel edges define the look. Joint width and finish quality still determine how clean the final result appears.

Can concealed fixing be used on existing panel facades?

It depends on the existing substructure and panel construction, so each case needs on-site assessment. Retrofit options are checked with the engineer before any work is planned.

Who confirms the fixing design and loads?

The structural or façade engineer confirms fastener type, spacing and load capacity for each project. We build to the approved specification and drawings.

How do I start a project with Techno Kol Uzi?

Send us photos and a rough description of the facade, and we will arrange an on-site measurement. From there we prepare a drawing and written specification for your approval.

Common mistakes to avoid

Setting the fixing grid or joint widths before coordinating with the engineer often causes costly changes later. Ignoring thermal movement and locking panels too rigidly can lead to buckling or cracked joints.

Our recommendation

Involve the fabricator during early design so the module, joint width and substructure tolerances are agreed before drawings are finalized. This keeps the concealed system clean and avoids on-site adjustments.

Summary

Concealed fastener systems give aluminum composite panel facades a clean, screw-free surface when designed and installed with accurate substructure and early coordination.

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