True value engineering isn’t about downgrading; it’s about upgrading intelligently. GreenGirt CMH™ and SMARTci® systems make it possible to reduce project costs without compromising performance. The systems’ high structural capacity ensures exceptional fastener retention and load-bearing strength, while also opening the door to simplified wall assemblies, fewer material layers, and more efficient installation. Combined with superior thermal performance and easier constructability, these solutions empower smarter design choices that enhance building envelope performance and deliver meaningful savings. This is value engineering at its best.
This article addresses key considerations when selecting materials to support your building’s envelope. It explains why choosing the GreenGirt CMH and SMARTci systems is the best choice for maintaining high-quality, value-driven continuous insulation in your next project.
Common Pitfalls of Value Engineering
Value engineering seeks to maximize function at the lowest possible cost. But when improperly executed, it can:
- Reduce Structural Integrity: Cheaper materials can degrade, weakening the building envelope and negatively impacting the durability of the building’s structure.
- Increase Costs with Extra Installation and Retention Materials: Metal-based and FRP Z-girts typically require hat channels, stick pins, and other installation materials that increase costs and lead to longer installations.
Increasing Long-Term Value with GreenGirt CMH and SMARTci
Increased Z-Girt Spacing
Z-girts are often spaced 16” on center by default. However, increasing the spacing to 24” on center (or greater) provides the opportunity for substantial savings on materials. GreenGirt Max CMH Z-girts are engineered for maximum structural capacity to accommodate wider spacing requirements, leading to fewer Z-girts and material needed, with durability guaranteed. The A2P engineering team will gladly assist in optimizing spacing and reducing costs.
Optimize the Load-Carrying Capacity of Z-Girts
When using light- to medium-weight cladding materials, the structurally optimized GreenGirt Optima CMH system is a cost-effective option to support these lighter options with ease, saving you on material costs.
Custom-Profiled Rigid Insulation
Custom-routed rigid insulation panels supplied by A2P for the SMARTci building enclosure system make installation on the jobsite up to 4x faster as the panels fit exactly with the GreenGirt CMH Z-girts, sliding into place with ease and efficiency that will save you time and costs on installation labor.
No Hat Channels Necessary
GreenGirt CMH Z-girts are designed to accommodate direct-attach cladding without the use of metal hat channels, whereas metal-based and FRP systems often require hat channels underneath the cladding. This eliminates the need for additional installation and retention materials, making GreenGirt CMH systems a cost-efficient solution.
Flexible with Open Framing Installation
The SMARTci system is compatible with installation on open framing, providing the opportunity to eliminate sheathing, substantially reducing the total assembly cost.
A Superior Choice for Future Projects
If you are struggling to decide on a cost-effective Z-girt system that also delivers high-quality structural performance, GreenGirt CMH and SMARTci systems offer a durable, financially practical, and easy-to-install alternative. By investing in these advanced continuous insulation and building enclosure solutions, you can feel confident in choosing a Z-girt system with enhanced durability and structural integrity—delivering excellent value that extends well beyond initial construction and saves on costs long-term.
Get a Price Estimate for GreenGirt & SMARTci Systems
Increase your building envelope’s value by installing GreenGirt and SMARTci systems on your next project. Get a quote today from your A2P territory representative.
Related Resources:
A2P’s Continuous Insulation Z-Girt Product Selector Tool
A2P’s Continuous Insulation Systems Comparison Chart
A2P’s High-Performance Solutions for Walls, Roofs, & Windows
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Frequently Asked Questions
How can GreenGirt Max CMH reduce material costs?
GreenGirt Max CMH is engineered for the structural capacity needed to accommodate wider spacing, meaning fewer Z-girts and less material overall, and our expert engineering can help optimize spacing for cost reduction.
Do GreenGirt CMH systems require hat channels or extra retention materials?
Not typically. GreenGirt CMH Z-girts are designed to accommodate direct-attach cladding without metal hat channels, while many metal-based and FRP-only systems often need hat channels under the cladding, adding materials and cost. Additionally, value-engineering substitutions can increase costs when systems require extra items like hat channels and retention/installation materials.
How does SMARTci reduce labor time and overall wall-assembly cost?
There are two main ways that SMARTci systems reduce labor time and wall assembly cost: (1) Our custom-profiled rigid insulation panels for SMARTci can make jobsite installation up to 4x faster because the panels are routed to fit the GreenGirt CMH Z-girts and slide into place. (2) SMARTci is also compatible with open-framing installation, which can allow teams to eliminate sheathing and “substantially” reduce total assembly cost.