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Forton MG – Frequently Asked Questions (Architects, Engineers & Developers)

 
1. Is Forton MG a structural material?
No. Forton MG is a non-structural architectural cladding material. It is designed for exterior façades, rainscreens, and decorative elements, and supports only its own weight. All structural loads are carried by the building structure and secondary framing.
 
2. How does Forton MG compare to GFRC or UHPC from a performance standpoint?
For non-load-bearing façades, Forton MG provides the required durability, weather resistance, and long-term performance without the excessive weight, framing complexity, or installation risk associated with GFRC or UHPC. It is typically evaluated as a performance-appropriate alternative, not a downgrade.
 
3. How heavy are Forton MG panels?
Typical Forton MG panels weigh approximately 6 lbs per square foot, which is significantly lighter than GFRC and UHPC.
This reduced weight often results in:
•    Smaller anchors
•    Lighter secondary framing
•    Lower structural demand
•    Faster and safer installation
 
4. How are Forton MG panels installed?
Forton MG panels are installed using light-gauge framing and mechanical Z-clips (commonly Monarch Metal MFSTR-1125).
No welding is required, and installation can be performed by standard carpentry or exterior cladding crews, rather than specialty precast erection teams.
 

5. How does the cost of Forton MG compare to high-quality GFRC?

When evaluated against high-quality, PCI-certified GFRC systems, Forton MG is typically priced at approximately

70–90% of comparable GFRC material costs, depending on panel geometry, detailing, and project-specific requirements.

Forton MG should be viewed as a peer architectural cladding system. In addition to competitive material pricing,

its significantly lower weight often results in additional cost efficiencies through reduced structural demand, simplified

installation, and faster project schedules—factors that can further improve overall project economics beyond material cost alone.

 
6. Where does Forton MG provide the biggest cost savings compared to GFRC?
The largest savings typically come from installation, not material price.
Projects have reported 30–50% lower installation costs due to:
•    Lightweight aluminum / light-gauge framing
•    Z-clip attachment (no welding)
•    Faster installation speed
•    Reduced equipment and labor complexity
•    No requirement for specially trained GFRC type installers

•.   Once sealed, minimal maintenance required, if any

 
7. How does manufacturing time compare between Forton MG and GFRC?
Forton MG offers a significant schedule advantage in manufacturing:
•    Forton MG: 2–3 mold pulls per day (depending on size)
•    Precast GFRC: typically 1 pull per mold per day
This can reduce manufacturing time by up to 50%, helping projects with tight schedules or phased construction.
 
8. Does Forton MG perform well in harsh climates (freeze-thaw, coastal, high UV)?
Yes. Forton MG has a decades-long track record in exterior applications and performs well in:
•    Freeze-thaw environments
•    High-UV exposure (optimum material for a desert like environment)
•    Coastal and humid conditions
When properly detailed and sealed, it maintains long-term durability and appearance.
 
9. Can Forton MG panels be repaired if damaged?
Yes. Repairability is a major advantage of Forton MG.
Minor damage can often be patched or repaired in place, unlike GFRC or UHPC panels, which frequently require full panel replacement and, in some cases, remanufacturing of molds.
 
10. Is a protective sealant required?
Zoho Stone strongly recommends applying a specialized protective sealant after installation.
This final step:
•    Preserves material characteristics
•    Enhances resistance to UV and weathering
•    Supports long-term durability and appearance consistency
Sealant selection and application should follow Zoho Stone guidance.

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11. Does Forton® MG require a Florida Product Approval or Miami-Dade NOA?
When used as a non-structural, decorative architectural element, Forton® MG generally does not require a Florida Product Approval or Miami-Dade NOA. It is not intended to serve as the primary building envelope or impact-resistant system. Compliance is addressed through project-specific engineering, where the Engineer of Record evaluates wind loads, anchorage, and attachment to ensure safe performance, subject to approval by the local Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ).

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12. Does Forton® MG have any type of product approval in the United States?
Yes. Forton® MG holds a City of Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety Research Report (RR-25320) recognizing it as a non-structural architectural decorative panel system approved through project-specific engineering. While jurisdiction-specific, the RR demonstrates prior review and acceptance by a major U.S. Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ)

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