Introduction

There are many reasons why the SMARTci building enclosure system stands out from traditional building enclosure methods. Learn what sets SMARTci apart and how it can benefit you as an architect, contractor, and client.

The Weaknesses of Other Building Enclosure Systems

Imagine trying to stay warm on a freezing day by zipping up your jacket, only to realize there are holes in it. No matter how tightly you sip or bundle up, you can’t fully stay warm because the jacket is flawed. This is a good analogy for how traditional building enclosure systems work. These systems have “holes” in their design—thermal gaps and bridges that prevent the building envelope from being thermally efficient.

In North America, nearly 40% of the energy used is by buildings. Unfortunately, a large portion of that energy is wasted due to inefficiencies in common building enclosure systems. Many buildings use steel or other metal components to connect exterior elements like cladding to the interior structure. This type of construction creates thermal bridges—essentially, paths for heat and cold to travel through the building, leading to energy loss, moisture buildup, and uncomfortable cold spots.

Additionally, these metal-based systems often rely on through-fasteners that further contribute to thermal bridging and condensation issues. Plus, they are often limited to stud walls, making them less versatile.

This is where SMARTci makes a significant difference.

How SMARTci is Truly Unique

SMARTci is not just another building enclosure system. It’s designed to overcome the shortcomings of traditional methods by providing a more thermally efficient, air- and water-tight, structurally sound solution. Here’s what makes SMARTci stand out from other building enclosure systems:

1. Innovative GreenGirt CMH Sub-Framing

   • At the heart of the SMARTci system is GreenGirt CMH sub-framing, which is comprised of a composite metal hybrid material. This patented sub-framing serves as a foundation for the building enclosure system, providing superior thermal performance and structural support. It eliminates the thermal breaks caused by metal components without compromising structural strength and offers flexible, durable cladding attachment options.

2. Eliminating Thermal Bridges

   • Unlike conventional systems that create thermal bridges with metal-only attachments, SMARTci eliminates these weak points by using its advanced GreenGirt CMH sub-framing and composite metal hybrid composition. It prevents energy loss and moisture issues, ensuring a fully insulated, efficient building envelope.

3. Complete Weather Barrier

   • The SMARTci system incorporates custom-profiled, dual foil-faced polyiso insulation panels that feed seamlessly into the GreenGirt CMH sub-framing Z-profile, completely eliminating gaps, cracks, and thermal bypass. The integrated insulation pressure seals within the GreenGirt CMH Z-profile, create a complete 360-degree weather barrier when paired with the custom-profiled polyiso insulation panels. This system provides excellent resistance to air and moisture infiltration, which are common problems in traditional building enclosure systems.

4. Cost and Installation Efficiency

   • SMARTci not only improves energy efficiency but also reduces installation costs. Its compatibility with open- or closed-framing substrates, allows for a quick, efficient, and effective installation. The system is fully compliant with ASTM E84 and NFPA 285 standards, ensuring top-tier safety and performance.

Comparing SMARTci to Other Building Enclosure Systems

When you evaluate SMARTci against other building enclosure systems, the differences become clear. Most traditional systems rely on steel components that create thermal bridges, leading to energy inefficiencies. They often require additional materials to compensate for these gaps, making them more costly and complex to install.

Moreover, SMARTci provides architects and contractors with a simple, streamlined installation process, saving time and reducing labor costs while delivering a higher-performing, more sustainable solution.

Experience the SMARTci Difference

We can talk all day about how SMARTci is different, but the best way to understand its value is to see it in action. Contact Advanced Architectural Products to schedule a consultation with our building enclosure specialists and experience firsthand how we lead the industry in thermal-efficient building solutions or visit our website to learn more.

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