Continuous Insulation Systems
GreenGirt CMH XO™ is a structural thermal framing system for all windows and openings. Proudly made in the USA by Advanced Architectural Products, GreenGirt CMH XO effectively tackles the critical challenge of thermal loss at building openings by eliminating through-wall metal, through-insulation fasteners, conductive metal angles, and inefficient wood-blocking.By aligning the thermal plane of the window with the thermal plane of the insulation, the overall efficiency of the building envelope is enhanced by the GreenGirt CMH XO system, achieving up to 97% thermal efficiency and more than doubling the effective R-value when compared to legacy systems. Supported by expert engineering, this system seamlessly integrates into the building's faCade, providing a sophisticated and efficient solution to optimize window and opening performance.Engineered with true flexibility in mind, GreenGirt CMH XO accommodates a wide range of window types and sizes. Its modular design allows customization to project-specific requirements. The system includes composite fiberglass headers, sills (with or without integrated rails) and jambs; aluminum and galvanized dead load clips; header angles; header, jamb, and sill aluminum flange inserts (available in standard and spacer variants); and self-sealing anchor plates, all customized to your project in collaboration with the A2P engineering team.
The GreenGirt CMH XO System adheres to the eight continuous insulation best practices. Additional features that make the GreenGirt CMH XO System stand out as the best choice for your building include:
Doubling Thermal Efficiency at Windows
GreenGirt CMH XO aligns the thermal plane of the window with the thermal plane of the insulation for enhanced energy performance—meeting the window alignment requirements in ASHRAE 90.1-2022.
Designed for Versatile Opening and Insulation Options
GreenGirt CMH XO is flexible to meet the needs of any building opening, including punched openings, storefronts, curtain walls, and ribbon windows, to ensure seamless integrations and superior performance. Also designed to work with any type of insulation.
Eliminates Metal Angles and Wood Blocking
Revolutionize your build by replacing traditional metal angles and wood blocking with innovative composite metal hybrid materials for a more efficient and sustainable construction approach.
Resistant to Creep and Fatigue
Engineered with advanced composite metal hybrid materials, GreenGirt CMH XO prevents fastener creep, resists fatigue and ensures lasting structural integrity.
Committed to Sustainable Design
By increasing energy efficiency at building openings, GreenGirt CMH XO reduces energy waste, conserving resources and reducing embodied carbon emissions. To ensure full transparency, GreenGirt CMH XO is complete with a Declare label, an EPD, and uses Red-List free materials.
What is GreenGirt CMH?
GreenGirt CMH insulated sub-framing is a component of SMARTci continuous insulation systems. GreenGirt CMH is made of a composite metal hybrid material which merges the thermal properties of composite with the structural strength of steel. GreenGirt CMH joins the building cladding and insulation to the building structure.
What is SMARTci?
SMARTci is a family of air- and water-tight building enclosure systems. Comprised of structural GreenGirt CMH composite metal hybrid sub-framing, integrated polyiso insulation panels, expert engineering support, and necessary accessories/products, SMARTci systems eliminate thermal bridging and increase energy efficiency.
What is the difference between FRP and CMH?
Fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) Z-girts/sub-framing products can be used to secure continuous insulation onto the exterior of a building. Made entirely of fiberglass – a non-conductive and versatile material well-suited for use in both new construction and repair applications – these Z-girt and clip products are efficient at eliminating the thermal bridges that occur in buildings that might otherwise use steel or other conductive materials in their sub-framing system. Fiberglass products, however, don't have the same structural strength and fastener retention as steel –reducing their longevity, durability, and fastener retention, especially under the extreme service temperatures that can occur inside sub-framing systems assemblies.
Builders seeking the best of both worlds – the load-bearing capacity and structural integrity of steel plus the non-conductive, thermally efficient properties of fiberglass – have an alternative in composite metal hybrid systems. CMH is a high-performance Z-girt system that combines the corrosion-resistant and insulative properties of FRP with the structural resilience of a continuous metal component on each of the substrate - and cladding-facing flanges. This unique composition of CMH systems guarantees high structural strength and ensures robust screw retention –allowing screws to permanently fasten into a continuous metallic structural support for effective and reliable rainscreen load distribution.
Do GreenGirt CMH and SMARTci systems eliminate thermal bridging?
Yes, SMARTci systems are designed to eliminate thermal bridging by avoiding through-metal or through-insulation fasteners. The unique Z-profile of the GreenGirt CMH Z-girt acts as a thermal break, effectively separating the cladding from the substrate materials. Together, the GreenGirt CMH and SMARTci systems deliver top-notch R-values, achieving 92-99% thermal efficiency in continuous insulation and building enclosure solutions.
What cladding is compatible with GreenGirt CMH, GreenGirt Steel, and SMARTci systems?
GreenGirt CMH, GreenGirt Steel and SMARTci systems are compatible with all cladding types, including but not limited to metal, wood, bRick, stone, aluminum, terra cotta, and stucco.
Does GreenGirt CMH sub-framing have fire testing?
Yes. GreenGirt CMH is ASTM E84 tested and NFPA 285 compliant. The ASTM E84 standard test method assesses the surface burning characteristics to see how a material might contribute to flame spread in case of a fire. NFPA 285 is a standard test published by the National Fire Protection Association for assessing the fire propagation characteristics of wall assembly components. GreenGirt CMH is also bromine, halogen, and Red List-free.
Do GreenGirt CMH, GreenGirt Steel, and SMARTci systems take longer to install than other continuous insulation and building enclosure systems?
No. GreenGirt CMH, GreenGirt Steel, and SMARTci systems can be up to 4X faster to install than other continuous insulation and building enclosure systems with standard construction methods.
Does A2P offer design/engineering assistance?
A2P does an internal engineering and application review on EVERY project that uses GreenGirt CMH or SMARTci systems. We can also help with any design questions earlier in the project's life. Shop drawings, stamped calculations, and stamped shop drawings are also available.
How do I purchase a GreenGirt CMH, GreenGirt Steel, or SMARTci system?
Call our office or complete a contact us form to discuss your project. We'll connect you with your local sales representative to find the system that best fits your specific needs. Material is shipped direct from our manufacturing plant or one of our warehouses.
What are the eight best practices when it comes to continuous insulation and building enclosure systems?
With thorough testing and years of experience in the building sector, Advanced Architectural Products has established the following best practices based on industry expert guidelines. The eight best practices include: structural integrity, thermal efficiency, fastener retention, durability, fire resistance, environmental impact, building health, and ease of installation.
How do GreenGirt CMH systems differ from other continuous insulation systems?
What sets GreenGirt CMH continuous insulation systems apart is the innovative GreenGirt CMH insulated sub-framing. Uniquely, GreenGirt CMH integrates fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) with metal inserts, offering a comprehensive solution that combines the benefits of both materials. This fusion delivers unparalleled thermal efficiency through the FRP Z-profile while ensuring structural integrity with steel, supported by metal fastener retention plates in both front and back flanges of the GreenGirt Z-profile.
How do SMARTci systems differ from other building enclosure systems?
SMARTci building enclosure systems distinguish themselves from other systems through several unique features that enhance both performance and efficiency:
1. Integrated Insulation Solution: Unlike traditional systems that require separate components for insulation, cladding attachment, and thermal bridging prevention, SMARTci systems provide an all-in-one solution that simplifies construction and reduces installation time.
2. Eliminates Thermal Bypass: SMARTci systems are designed to eliminate all inherent gaps and cracks between and behind the insulation, effectively preventing thermal bypass and maximizing insulation performance.
3. Air and Water Tightness: These systems achieve superior air and water tightness without the need for traditional sealing methods like caulk or tape, improving the envelope's integrity and contributing to better indoor air quality and moisture control.
4. Faster Installation: Engineered for efficiency, SMARTci's “stack and go" installation process significantly speeds up the construction timeline, allowing for quicker project completion.
5. Decreased Labor Costs: The streamlined installation reduces labor requirements by more than twice compared to traditional methods, making SMARTci a cost-effective choice for building projects.
6. Highest True R-Value per Inch: Providing the highest true R-value per inch of any wall system, SMARTci systems ensure optimal thermal efficiency and lower energy costs over the building's lifespan.
7. Advanced Material Technology: Utilizing advanced materials, such as composite metal hybrid (CMH) technologies, SMARTci systems combine the strength of metal with the insulation properties of composites for a robust and highly insulative system.
8. Comprehensive Testing and Certification: SMARTci systems undergo rigorous testing for thermal performance, fire resistance, and structural integrity, and are certified for environmental and health safety, supporting sustainable building practices.
What is the environmental impact of GreenGirt CMH and SMARTci systems?
GreenGirt CMH and the SMARTci system are two of the most sustainable and environmentally-friendly continuous insulation and building enclosure systems on the market. GreenGirt CMH is created through a net zero manufacturing process. GreenGirt CMH has received a Declare Label, Environmental Product Declaration (EPD), and is Red List free.
What is included in SMARTci building enclosure systems?
SMARTci building enclosure systems are designed to offer a comprehensive, integrated solution for enhanced building performance. Here's what is typically included in these systems:
1. GreenGirt CMH (composite metal hybrid) Z-girts: These are crucial components of the SMARTci system, providing a structural framework for cladding attachment and acting as a thermal break to eliminate thermal bridging.
2. Custom-profiled rigid Insulation: SMARTci systems come equipped with high-performance custom-profiled rigid insulation boards that are precision-cut to exact dimensions, ensuring a perfect fit with GreenGirt CMH Z-girts. This tailored sizing facilitates a quick and easy stack-and-go installation, optimizing both time and labor efficiency.
3. Technical documentation and engineering support: SMARTci systems come with comprehensive installation manuals, technical specifications, Finite Element Analysis (FEA), and other documentation. Additionally, support from Advanced Architectural Products in terms of design assistance, engineering calculators, and installation training may also be provided.
4. Accessories: The system includes a variety of installation accessories, which can vary depending on the specific system requirements. These accessories are essential for ensuring the secure and proper attachment of system components to the building structure and are designed for full integration with the GreenGirt CMH and SMARTci systems.
Can a GreenGirt CMH system be used to insulate a roof?
The GreenGirt CMH Roof continuous insulation system offers a comprehensive solution for roofing needs. By seamlessly integrating exterior roofing materials with the insulation system and building structure, it enhances the overall energy efficiency of roofs. This innovative system effectively eliminates thermal bridging, ensuring optimal thermal performance for buildings.
Which insulation materials can be used with GreenGirt CMH, GreenGirt Steel, and SMARTci systems?
GreenGirt CMH continuous insulation systems are compatible with mineral wool or spray foam insulation. SMARTci building enclosure systems are compatible with rigid insulation, including polyisocyanurate, extruded polystyrene (XPS), or expanded polystyrene (EPS). GreenGirt Steel can be used with any of the insulation materials listed above.
Which substrates are compatible with GreenGirt CMH and SMARTci systems?
GreenGirt continuous insulation systems are compatible with closed-framing or solid substrates. SMARTci building enclosure systems are compatible with open or closed-framing or solid substrates.
Does A2P offer installation support or training?
Yes, A2P provides comprehensive installation support and training for all GreenGirt CMH, GreenGirt Steel, and SMARTci systems. We ensure that our clients have the necessary resources and guidance to successfully install our products. Additionally, a wide range of training materials is readily available on our website at GreenGirt.com.
Looking for specific training?
Let us know and we can help you.
Where can I find technical documents and information for GreenGirt CMH, GreenGirt Steel, and SMARTci systems?
You can find a wealth of technical documents and information for GreenGirt CMH, GreenGirt Steel, and SMARTci systems in our Technical Library. This comprehensive resource includes installation manuals, specifications, details, certifications, data sheets, performance data, and more, providing everything you need to understand and work with our products effectively. To access these resources, please visit the Technical Library section on our website.
Where are GreenGirt CMH, GreenGirt Steel, and SMARTci systems manufactured?
GreenGirt CMH, GreenGirt Steel, and SMARTci systems are proudly manufactured at A2P's state-of-the-art facility in Hamilton, Michigan, situated on the western side of the state.
What depths are available for GreenGirt CMH and GreenGirt Steel sub-framing?
GreenGirt CMH sub-framing depths include 1.5", 2", 2.5", 3", 3.5", 4", 4.5", 5", 5.5", 6", and 8". GreenGirt Steel sub-framing depths include 1.5″, 2″, 2.5″, 3″, 3.5″, 4″, 4.5″, and 5″.
Is GreenGirt CMH sub-framing available in colors other than green?
Yes. GreenGirt CMH sub-framing is available in both green and black.
What are the standard GreenGirt CMH and GreenGirt Steel Z-girt lengths?
The standard GreenGirt CMH and GreenGirt Steel lengths are 8'. Custom sizes are available.
Can GreenGirt CMH, GreenGirt Steel, and SMARTci systems be installed vertically or horizontally?
Depending on which system, GreenGirt CMH, GreenGirt Steel, and SMARTci systems can be installed vertically, horizontally, or diagonally.
Are GreenGirt CMH, GreenGirt Steel, and SMARTci systems compatible with brick cladding?
Yes, GreenGirt CMH, GreenGirt Steel, and SMARTci are compatible with bRick, cladding. The A2P engineering team will review your specific design/materials and advise of specific installation requirements, if any.
Does A2P offer AIA-accredited continued education or Lunch & Learn presentations?
Yes. A2P offers in-person or virtual CEU Lunch & Learn presentations. Visit our education webpage for more information on our available CEUs or to schedule a Lunch & Learn.
My substrate surface is misaligned and has plane deviations. Which system should I use?
The GreenGirt CMH Delta Adjustable continuous insulation system offers an optimal solution for correcting misalignments and plane deviations, ensuring precise and uniform cladding installations. This advanced system features base brackets available in a variety of sizes and boasts a wide adjustability range. These features enable seamless alignment corrections, providing a consistently plumb and uniform cladding attachment surface, enhancing both aesthetic and structural integrity.
What types of buildings have used GreenGirt CMH, GreenGirt Steel, or SMARTci systems?
GreenGirt CMH, GreenGirt Steel, and SMARTci Systems have been successfully installed on a multitude of buildings throughout the United States and Canada. These include airports, schools, office buildings, multi-family residences, healthcare facilities, resorts, stadiums, natatoriums, and various other structures.
Can cladding direct attach to GreenGirt CMH, GreenGirt Steel, or GreenGirt Steel sub-framing?
Absolutely. Cladding can be directly affixed to the GreenGirt CMH or GreenGirt Steel sub-framing. The GreenGirt CMH Z-profile boasts steel fastener retention plates on both its front and back flanges, ensuring secure fastening and maximum pull-out strength. Moreover, the GreenGirt CMH sub-framing's front flange is marked with a demarcation line, facilitating quick identification of the metal insert center for efficient cladding attachment.
What fastener types are recommended for use with GreenGirt CMH, GreenGirt Steel, and SMARTci systems?
Recommended fasteners for securing into the GreenGirt CMH and GreenGirt Steel Z-girts include self-drilling fasteners with a minimum #3 drill point, owing to the presence of steel inserts in both flanges of the Z-profile. It's important to avoid using nails, actuated fasteners, or impact hammers/drills for installation, as these methods can compromise the integrity of the GreenGirt CMH, GreenGirt Steel or SMARTci system.
Do GreenGirt CMH, GreenGirt Steel, or SMARTci systems only apply to cold climates?
No, GreenGirt CMH, GreenGirt Steel, and SMARTci systems are beneficial in various climate conditions, not just cold climates. While these systems are excellent for improving thermal efficiency and reducing energy costs in colder environments by eliminating thermal bridges, they also provide advantages in warmer climates. In hot regions, these systems help in maintaining cool indoor temperatures and reducing cooling costs, making them versatile solutions for enhancing building performance across diverse weather conditions.
What is the adjustability range of the GreenGirt CMH Delta adjustable system?
The GreenGirt CMH Delta adjustable base brackets range from 2" – 6" depths and can be paired with a variety of rail sizes. The full adjustability range of the GreenGirt CMH Delta adjustable system is 0.25" – 4.5".
Expert-engineered GreenGirt CMH™ and GreenGirt Steel™ continuous insulation and SMARTci® building enclosure systems are industry frontrunners in sustainable building solutions that can dramatically reduce the cost to heat and cool a building. Advanced Architectural Products (A2P) provides systems that combine the structural integrity of steel with the thermal insulative properties of fiber-reinforced polymers. Architects find a trusted partner in A2P, empowering them to incorporate state-of-the-art sustainable building materials into their projects and contribute to a greener, more resilient built environment. Plus, the systems are easy to install - perfect for your next project.