Subgirts are a primary rainscreen framing component with depths matching common exterior insulation thicknesses that can accommodate a variety of cladding panel attachment methods, making them an essential part of a building’s exterior. For projects requiring enhanced structural integrity and durability, sub-girts offer a versatile and effective solution.
Sub-Girts, or substructural components, are used in numerous cladding attachment systems which are designed to offer exterior insulation. Sub-Girts are a type of continuous cladding attachment solution that consists of galvanized steel framing members, typically in 18- to 20-gauge profiles which attach vertically or horizontally to the structural wall. Once installed, Cladding is then attached directly to the sub-girt.
A relatively economical choice, sub-girts are easy to install and designed to minimize field installation time. Depending on the structural wall makeup, sub-girts can be fastened to concrete, concrete block, and mass timber walls. With wood frame buildings, sub-girts can support either studs or the plywood or OSB sheathing. This functionality makes sub-girts an excellent choice for various construction projects, ensuring compatibility with different structural wall types.
Exterior insulation that is installed outside of a wall sheathing is becoming increasingly common across North America. Commonly referred to as exterior insulation, this insulation is installed continuously on the outside of the primary structure. This method helps improve thermal performance and energy efficiency by providing a continuous insulation layer that reduces thermal bridging.
Depending on the thermal requirements of the project, sub-girts can accommodate various thicknesses of rigid, semi-rigid, or spray-applied exterior insulation. One of the most commonly used insulation materials with sub-girts is the Roxul CavityRock semi-rigid insulation. Exclusively designed for exterior cavity wall and rainscreen applications, CavityRock offers superior long-term thermal efficiency, fire resistance, moisture control, and acoustic performance that is compatible with continuous cladding attachment systems such as sub-girts.
Z Girts are also known as “Z-Bar, Z-Channel, and Zee” are all terms that describe the same type of profile. This cladding attachment system consists of continuous galvanized steel framing members that can be applied vertically, horizontally, or crossed. Z Girts are typically produced to lock in the thickness levels of rigid or semi-rigid insulation. By varying the length of the Z flange, the Z-girts allow for insulation that can enhance the R-value of a building, contributing to improved thermal performance
The Z girt profile functions as a structural supported fastening point, a wall cavity for insulation, and an exterior fixing point for cladding within one assembly. Z Girts are an ideal product for furring out the interior walls of an existing masonry or new concrete wall. They are a popular choice for both new constructions and renovations because Z-girts ensure that buildings can achieve the desired level of insulation and cladding support.
Notched Z Girts are similar to standard Z girts except for notching which facilitates the application of the Z girt over a profiled metal liner acting as a vapor barrier.
Notched Z Girt Sizes:
The customization options for notched Z-girts make them adaptable to various project requirements, ensuring that each installation can be tailored to the specific needs of the building.
Hat Channel (also known as “Furring Channel”) is a structural support element that is commonly used to level uneven surfaces. Furring Hat Channel is designed to be a cost-effective solution to ensure easy leveling of ceiling and wall systems while providing a ventilation space as may be required in rainscreen wall systems. Applications include drywall, cladding, or masonry. Hat channels ensure that surfaces are even and ready for further construction or finishing processes.
Furring Hat Channel Sizes:
A C Channel is another structural support element that provides a cavity wall for insulation but is used at the top or bottom of the wall system due to its shape to give a flush mount to the floor or roof system. The structural element of C Channels help create a continuous and seamless connection, enhancing the overall stability and appearance of the wall system.
C Channel Sizes:
Custom leg and flange dimensions are available
The availability of various sizes and customization options ensures that Hat and C Channels can meet the unique requirements of different construction projects.
Depending on your design criteria, we can supply sub girts in
These features make sub-girts and Z-girts highly adaptable and suitable for a wide range of construction projects. The ability to customize dimensions and materials ensures that each project can meet its specific requirements, providing a tailored solution for optimal performance and durability.
Package your subgirts with TBClip
Available for purchase with your girt package, the TB Clip system is versatile, compatible with various substrates, and can accommodate a wide range of cladding materials.
Improve your building’s envelope performance with the innovative Thermal Break Clip, a sustainable and recyclable solution designed for optimal thermal efficiency. This safe and reliable component, tested and approved, offers great savings and return on investment. Developed by manufacturing and cladding trade professionals, the Thermal Clip accelerates installation by eliminating unnecessary steps. As an essential element in thermally efficient building envelopes, it significantly reduces thermal bridging between the building and its façade, improving insulative R-values. Manufactured in Canada using equitable labour practices and lean manufacturing, the Thermal Break Clip’s uncomplicated design eliminates the need for cutting insulation, reducing costs and installation time. It can be used in various ways and applied to different substrates including concrete, plywood, and stud framing. Thermal Break Clips can be applied vertically or horizontally and can accommodate varying wall depths, making it a solution for diverse architectural designs. By upgrading energy efficiency, it can contribute to LEED V4 credits, making it an ideal choice for architects and contractors seeking high-performance, sustainable building solutions.
Learn more about Thermal Break Clips by visiting thermalbreakclip.com.