Armatherm™ Z Girt

ARMATHERM™ Z Girt

Armatherm thermally broken cladding support connection solutions prevent excessive heat flow and potential condensation problems otherwise associated with thermal bridging. Moreover, wall assemblies using Armatherm attachments will meet the continuous insulation requirement of ASHRAE 90.1 and the effective R value requirements of the Canadian NECB energy code.

Modelling results show that using Armatherm Z girts results in several improvements in the thermal efficiency of wall designs, reducing heat flow:

The insulation efficiencies of the wall assemblies increase significantly. Some as high as 98%.
Higher, effective wall assembly R values are achieved using lower values of external insulation. For example, to obtain an R value of R-13 minimum to meet ASHRAE zone 1, steel girts require and external R 20; whereas Armatherm girts require only R 10.
Cladding wall assemblies can meet the R value requirements of ALL geographical zones for both ASHRAE 2013 and NECB 2011 energy codes using Armatherm Z girts.
Reduction in thickness and cost of insulation.
Reduces energy consumption.

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Improve Wall Assembly Efficiency

How can we improve cladding attachment details and design wall assemblies that maximise insulation values so they reduce heat loss, reduce cost and meet energy codes?

Armatherm cladding attachments significantly improve wall assembly thermal performance. Armatherm Z Girt, clip and thermal break shims provide a combination of low thermal conductivity and high mechanical properties that transfer load and reducing heat loss.

Cladding Thermal Bridging Solutions

Cladding and panels are usually attached to the steel stud framing with a metallic Z girt within projects. They can result in thermal bridges, bypassing the exterior insulation and making it non continuous, as the designs are highly conductive. Thermal bridges, which can be referred to as cold bridges, heat bridges or thermal bypasses, are areas which have higher thermal conductivity than the surrounding materials. This creates a pathway for energy transfer. Shockingly, thermal bridges are often overlooked when calculating a wall’s true thermal efficiency. Using steel girts can reduce the R value of a wall by as much as 50%. This also causes potentially detrimental efficiency results to a construction project. The internal side of steel and aluminium attachments can be cooled by the unaccounted heat flow. This can cause major issues during the building’s lifespan, especially if the dewpoint of air in the wall cavity, where condensation can occur, is cooled. The condensation will result in damp patches, leading to dangerous mould problems and negatively impacting a resident or visitor’s health.

To improve the U value of cladding and wall panel assemblies, an Armatherm™ Z Girt system is strong enough to hold most cladding and insulation details. It eliminates the use of highly conductive metal girts and aluminium brackets, therefore creating up to 98% more efficient wall panel assemblies. Furthermore, architects and structural engineers must ensure they are up to speed with the latest innovations in thermal break technology, this will allow them to make efficient buildings consistently and protect the future of construction.

At Armatherm™ we continue to provide thermally broken Z Girts for many prestigious projects, improving building efficiency. To hear more about our case studies from any of the companies we’ve worked with, view our testimonials online. We also have specific construction examples demonstrating the use of fiberglass Z Girt. Our reviews are glowing, and the expert team can also answer any questions you may have regarding horizontal Z Girts or any of our other products.

"The team is always very helpful and persistent in delivering the best service possible for the customer and the project. At one point went to the extent of renting a U-Haul to get the product down to Raleigh when the carrier dropped the ball half way down from Mass. Excited for more opportunities ahead!"

James Clark, White Cap

"I can always trust that ARMATHERM will deliver a reliable product on time. Their deep knowledge of the industry allows them to aid in project planning and design. ARMATHERM goes out of their way to help their customers get the service they need."

Andrew Sarlo, Cives Steel Co.

"Dirigo Drywall can count on Armatherm to deliver quality thermal break products for our building projects that increase the building’s energy efficiency and help us meet energy compliance goals."

Nathan P. Croteau, LEED-AP

“Armatherm was very accommodating with their customer service team in the release and delivery of materials to meet the schedule of the project. They also provided the necessary engineering information for us to ensure the product performed as required. Overall it was a smooth experience from Design to P.O. to Installation.”

Andrew Boesch, Eastern Exterior Wall Systems

"ARMATHERM has a commitment to producing quality products and excellent customer service that is second to none in their industry. They are extremely easy to work with and hold true to their quoted lead times. The Steel Supply Company can count on ARMATHERM to deliver quality thermal break products for our building projects that increase the building's energy efficiency and help us meet energy compliance goals."

Frankie, The Steel Supply Company

"The quote came quick, short lead time/fast delivery, no troubles with installation, great technical support & most important – competitive pricing! We are also happy to support a local Massachusetts business!"

Pierre Gagnon, New England Finish Systems

"Armatherm products have been useful in addressing thermal bridging challenges in our projects. Armatherm products insulate many of the difficult structural thermal bridging details GPC Green Builders often encounter. The quoting is quick, the products are shipped on time, and the customer service is great."

Ben Bogie, BPC Green Builders

About Armatherm™

Armatherm™ Z-Girt thermal bridging solutions are always safe, durable and efficient. Our thermal bridging solutions are also imperative to help minimise energy loss and, therefore, will significantly improve envelope performance. This is especially true when they are paired alongside Armatherm™’s vast range of thermal break products. Our products are also specifically designed to combat new building regulations. Our expert team is on hand to help and advise when you’re choosing the best product for you and your construction, this includes specialist knowledge on fiberglass Z Girts. For helpful online resources, including test reports, design assistance, literature libraries and ZGirt product profile videos, visit our website. They can help you gain a better understanding of thermal break products, key features and best suited applications.

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