50% More Thermal Efficiency in GreenGirt CMH with ThermaLock
Lock in Your Thermal Performance with ThermaLock
Since the inception of GreenGirt CMH continuous insulation and SMARTci building enclosure systems, ThermaLock has been quietly delivering up to 50% more thermal efficiency. As a standard feature of GreenGirt CMH, ThermaLock is strategically positioned where insulation panels meet the Z-girts above and below, creating dual three-point compression seals. While often overshadowed by more visible aspects of wall assembly design, this small but critical feature plays a pivotal role in maximizing thermal efficiency, eliminating thermal bypass, securing insulation, and preventing water intrusion. To achieve this efficiency on buildings, ThermaLock:
1. Eliminates Thermal Bypass
By eliminating gaps, cracks, and unintended air movement, GreenGirt CMH with ThermaLock prevents thermal bypass and maximizes energy efficiency. According to the PassiveHaus Trust, a mere 10mm air gap behind insulation boards can reduce thermal efficiency by up to 50%. GreenGirt CMH with ThermaLock eliminates gaps behind the insulation and stops air movement between the Z-girt and insulation. Learn more about thermal bypass.
Left Image: Eliminating thermal bypass – GreenGirt CMH with ThermaLock preventing all unintended air movement into and beyond the insulation panel for up to 50% more thermal efficiency.
Center and Right Images: Illustration showing how generic FRP Z-girts without ThermaLock permit air movement above, below, and between insulation panels—causing thermal bypass and reducing thermal efficiency.
2. Secures Insulation
GreenGirt CMH with ThermaLock is designed to secure insulation with precision, enabling faster installation while ensuring long-term durability. Engineered to firmly hold insulation in place, ThermaLock prevents shifting or sagging over time, maintaining stability and proper alignment throughout the installation process and beyond.
3. Reduces Installation Costs
GreenGirt CMH with ThermaLock significantly reduces installation costs by eliminating the need for stick pins, adhesives, or additional fasteners to secure insulation. This streamlined approach not only simplifies the installation process but also minimizes labor time, effectively cutting installation time by up to 50%. By reducing material requirements and labor-intensive steps, GreenGirt CMH with ThermaLock enhances overall project efficiency, leading to cost savings and a more seamless construction process.
4. Forms Dual Three-Point Compression Seals
GreenGirt CMH with ThermaLock forms dual three-point compression seals embedded within rigid insulation, ensuring superior air and water tightness. These seals are created where each insulation panel meets the Z-girt above and below—an impressive upgrade over products that do not have compression sealing between girts and insulation.
Left Image: Dual three-point compression seals on GreenGirt CMH with ThermaLock, used with custom-profiled polyiso insulation.
Right Image: Dual three-point compression seals on GreenGirt CMH with ThermaLock, used with mineral wool insulation.
5. Prevents Water Intrusion
GreenGirt CMH with ThermaLock prevents water intrusion and creates a smooth drainage plane. Utilizing shiplap design principles, ThermaLock secures insulation and maintains design integrity to ensure a smooth drainage plane—effectively protecting against moisture damage and mold growth.
ThermaLock is a cornerstone of the GreenGirt CMH and SMARTci systems, delivering unmatched thermal efficiency, durability, and ease of installation. To learn more about ThermaLock or other features of the GreenGirt CMH and SMARTci systems, visit GreenGirt.com.
Resources:
- Three Essential Steps for Achieving Thermally Efficient Continuous Insulation Systems. https://greengirt.com/articles/three-essential-steps-for-achieving-thermally-efficient-continuous-insulation-systems/
- Understanding and Addressing Thermal Bypasses in Building Enclosures – Gaps, Cracks, and Air Channels Inside Your Building Enclosure. https://greengirt.com/articles/understanding-and-addressing-thermal-bypasses-in-building-enclosures-gaps-cracks-and-air-channels-inside-your-building-enclosure/
Manufacturer’s Note: While GreenGirt CMH Z-girts are most thermally effective when manufactured with the standard ThermaLock, optional configurations without the ThermaLock are available for applications requiring a smooth surface and/or use with non-custom profiled rigid-board insulation.
