Valerie Morris, Author at AE Building Systems https://aebuildingsystems.com/author/valerietinterocreative-com/ High Performance Building Materials Fri, 12 Jun 2026 20:10:18 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://aebuildingsystems.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/logo1-100x100.png Valerie Morris, Author at AE Building Systems https://aebuildingsystems.com/author/valerietinterocreative-com/ 32 32 How One Family Built Back Smarter, Greener, and Future-Ready https://aebuildingsystems.com/how-one-family-built-back-smarter-greener-and-future-ready-blog/ https://aebuildingsystems.com/how-one-family-built-back-smarter-greener-and-future-ready-blog/#respond Thu, 28 May 2026 20:26:33 +0000 https://aebuildingsystems.com/?p=4813 Rising From the Ashes: How a Louisville Marshall Fire Family Built Back Smarter, Greener, and Future-Ready When the Marshall Fire tore through Louisville, Colorado in December 2021, many families lost everything: their home, their memories, and the life they had built. But in the wreckage, one family found an opportunity to rebuild not just a […]

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]]> https://aebuildingsystems.com/how-one-family-built-back-smarter-greener-and-future-ready-blog/feed/ 0 What Your Walls Are Telling You: The Hidden Air Leakage at Your Top and Bottom Plates https://aebuildingsystems.com/what-your-walls-are-telling-you-the-hidden-air-leakage-at-your-top-and-bottom-plates-blog/ https://aebuildingsystems.com/what-your-walls-are-telling-you-the-hidden-air-leakage-at-your-top-and-bottom-plates-blog/#respond Wed, 29 Apr 2026 20:55:03 +0000 https://aebuildingsystems.com/?p=4772 You don’t necessarily need a fog machine to find where your house is losing energy. A thermal imaging camera will do the job, and what it reveals might surprise you. We recently ran an infrared scan of one of our own home’s interior ceiling and walls, and the images told a clear story: It was […]

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]]> https://aebuildingsystems.com/what-your-walls-are-telling-you-the-hidden-air-leakage-at-your-top-and-bottom-plates-blog/feed/ 0 Boulder’s First PHI-Certified Passive House: Inside the Forest Haus https://aebuildingsystems.com/boulders-first-phi-certified-passive-house-inside-the-forest-haus-blog/ https://aebuildingsystems.com/boulders-first-phi-certified-passive-house-inside-the-forest-haus-blog/#respond Wed, 01 Apr 2026 14:43:55 +0000 https://aebuildingsystems.com/?p=4748 When Matt Brill set out to build a home for his family in Boulder, Colorado, he wasn’t looking to simply check an energy-efficiency box. He wanted to achieve the pinnacle of residential building performance with a home that would deliver extraordinary comfort, radical quiet, and long-term resilience. The result is Forest Haus: a 5,000-square-foot certified […]

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]]> https://aebuildingsystems.com/boulders-first-phi-certified-passive-house-inside-the-forest-haus-blog/feed/ 0 Cold Air on a Calm Day: The Convection Current Problem Nobody Talks About https://aebuildingsystems.com/cold-air-on-a-calm-day-the-convection-current-problem-nobody-talks-about-blog/ https://aebuildingsystems.com/cold-air-on-a-calm-day-the-convection-current-problem-nobody-talks-about-blog/#comments Mon, 02 Mar 2026 02:23:21 +0000 https://aebuildingsystems.com/?p=4730 When homeowners complain about feeling cold air moving through their living room on a perfectly still day, the first instinct is usually to blame the windows. While the windows may well be part of the problem, what’s actually happening is more interesting than a simple air leak, and understanding it points toward a more complete […]

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]]> https://aebuildingsystems.com/cold-air-on-a-calm-day-the-convection-current-problem-nobody-talks-about-blog/feed/ 1 Understanding Energy-Efficient Design: Passive House vs. Passive Solar Approaches https://aebuildingsystems.com/understanding-energy-efficient-design-passive-house-vs-passive-solar-approaches-blog/ https://aebuildingsystems.com/understanding-energy-efficient-design-passive-house-vs-passive-solar-approaches-blog/#respond Tue, 27 Jan 2026 21:02:34 +0000 https://aebuildingsystems.com/?p=4718 When homeowners start researching energy-efficient building methods, the terminology can get confusing fast. “Passive House” and “Passive Solar Design”…they sound so similar, don’t they? Many people assume these terms are interchangeable, but they actually represent fundamentally different philosophies for creating energy efficient homes. Both approaches aim to reduce energy consumption and create healthier living spaces, […]

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]]> https://aebuildingsystems.com/understanding-energy-efficient-design-passive-house-vs-passive-solar-approaches-blog/feed/ 0 The Simple Smart Homeowner’s Guide to High-Performance Windows and Doors https://aebuildingsystems.com/the-simple-smart-homeowners-guide-to-high-performance-windows-and-doors-blog/ https://aebuildingsystems.com/the-simple-smart-homeowners-guide-to-high-performance-windows-and-doors-blog/#respond Fri, 02 Jan 2026 20:30:36 +0000 https://aebuildingsystems.com/?p=4701 Whether you’re building a new home or replacing older windows and doors, understanding performance metrics is crucial to making informed decisions that will impact your comfort, energy bills, and home value for many years. While the range of ratings and coefficients can seem overwhelming, mastering these empowers you to choose windows that truly perform. U-Values: […]

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]]> https://aebuildingsystems.com/the-simple-smart-homeowners-guide-to-high-performance-windows-and-doors-blog/feed/ 0 Thin is In: The Manufacturing Line That’s Changing Windows Today https://aebuildingsystems.com/thin-is-in-the-manufacturing-line-thats-changing-windows-today/ https://aebuildingsystems.com/thin-is-in-the-manufacturing-line-thats-changing-windows-today/#comments Fri, 31 Oct 2025 16:22:37 +0000 https://aebuildingsystems.com/?p=4658 Alpen’s Revolutionary ThinGlass IGU Line: Transforming Window Manufacturing in North America Our friends at Alpen reached a historic milestone by bringing North America’s first automated ThinGlass IGU (insulated glass unit) manufacturing line into full operation. This groundbreaking achievement represents the culmination of years of strategic planning, investment, and unwavering commitment to making ultra-efficient windows accessible […]

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]]> https://aebuildingsystems.com/thin-is-in-the-manufacturing-line-thats-changing-windows-today/feed/ 4 The Devil is in the Details of Air Tightness https://aebuildingsystems.com/the-devil-is-in-the-details-of-air-tightness-blog/ https://aebuildingsystems.com/the-devil-is-in-the-details-of-air-tightness-blog/#respond Wed, 01 Oct 2025 02:46:42 +0000 https://aebuildingsystems.com/?p=4585 Critical Details for High-Performance Building Air tightness is the foundation of high-performance building, and windows and doors represent the most vulnerable points in any building envelope. Properly installed air-tight window and door installations deliver superior energy efficiency, moisture management, and occupant comfort. However, achieving true air tightness requires attention to critical details that many builders […]

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]]> https://aebuildingsystems.com/the-devil-is-in-the-details-of-air-tightness-blog/feed/ 0 Seal the Deal: Your Guide to Wall Airtightness https://aebuildingsystems.com/seal-the-deal-your-complete-guide-to-wall-airtightness-blog/ https://aebuildingsystems.com/seal-the-deal-your-complete-guide-to-wall-airtightness-blog/#respond Fri, 29 Aug 2025 23:17:25 +0000 https://aebuildingsystems.com/?p=4471 Wall airtightness isn’t just construction jargon; it’s your secret weapon against sky-high utility bills and uncomfortable drafts that make your indoor climate feel like a weather lottery. So, let’s seal the deal and move forward with the best wall construction for airtightness you can get.  The Exterior Defense Squad When it comes to protecting your […]

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]]> https://aebuildingsystems.com/seal-the-deal-your-complete-guide-to-wall-airtightness-blog/feed/ 0 Why Air Tightness is Critical for Modern Building Performance https://aebuildingsystems.com/why-air-tightness-is-critical-for-modern-building-performance-blog/ https://aebuildingsystems.com/why-air-tightness-is-critical-for-modern-building-performance-blog/#respond Mon, 28 Jul 2025 22:35:15 +0000 https://aebuildingsystems.com/?p=4443 Nothing is worse than a drafty room! We can all agree on that. You may intuitively think about insulation and structural components, but often the invisible enemy of uncontrolled air infiltration can undermine even the most sophisticated building systems. This is where air tightness becomes clear, and why choosing the right products and partners makes […]

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]]> https://aebuildingsystems.com/why-air-tightness-is-critical-for-modern-building-performance-blog/feed/ 0 Tyrol Windows: Two Styles, Uncompromising Performance https://aebuildingsystems.com/tyrol-windows-two-styles-uncompromising-performance-blog/ https://aebuildingsystems.com/tyrol-windows-two-styles-uncompromising-performance-blog/#respond Tue, 01 Jul 2025 21:31:18 +0000 https://aebuildingsystems.com/?p=4417 The window industry has been waiting for this moment. Alpen’s new Tyrol series represents a quantum leap forward in uPVC window technology, offering distinct styles that deliver what architects and builders have been demanding: exceptional energy performance, versatile design options, and construction that meets or exceeds Passive House standards. Two Distinct Styles, One Extraordinary Performance […]

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]]> https://aebuildingsystems.com/tyrol-windows-two-styles-uncompromising-performance-blog/feed/ 0 The Unexpected ROI of Sound-Attenuating Windows: Why Quiet is Becoming a Premium Home Feature https://aebuildingsystems.com/the-unexpected-roi-of-sound-attenuating-windows-why-quiet-is-becoming-a-premium-home-feature-blog/ https://aebuildingsystems.com/the-unexpected-roi-of-sound-attenuating-windows-why-quiet-is-becoming-a-premium-home-feature-blog/#respond Tue, 27 May 2025 22:08:20 +0000 https://aebuildingsystems.com/?p=4393 In today’s increasingly noisy world, the sanctuary of our homes can be compromised by everything from traffic and construction to neighborhood disturbances. While energy efficiency often is the motivation behind a high-performance window choice, many homeowners are discovering an unexpected benefit that’s transforming their living experience: superior sound attenuation. The Science Behind the Silence in […]

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]]> https://aebuildingsystems.com/the-unexpected-roi-of-sound-attenuating-windows-why-quiet-is-becoming-a-premium-home-feature-blog/feed/ 0 Looking Through the smartwin Options https://aebuildingsystems.com/looking-through-the-smartwin-options-blog/ https://aebuildingsystems.com/looking-through-the-smartwin-options-blog/#respond Thu, 01 May 2025 14:31:58 +0000 https://aebuildingsystems.com/?p=4381 High-performance windows are a critical component of any energy-efficient building project.  Last month we talked about  smartwin™ by Advantage Architectural Woodwork.  Advantage offers three smartwin™ window models. Those brands are designed to meet different performance requirements, aesthetic preferences, and budget considerations. In this article, we’ll explore the unique properties of smartwin COMPACT®, smartwin SOLAR®, and […]

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]]> https://aebuildingsystems.com/looking-through-the-smartwin-options-blog/feed/ 0 Why smartwin™ is Revolutionizing the Window Industry https://aebuildingsystems.com/why-smartwin-is-revolutionizing-the-window-industry-blog/ https://aebuildingsystems.com/why-smartwin-is-revolutionizing-the-window-industry-blog/#respond Mon, 31 Mar 2025 22:52:45 +0000 https://aebuildingsystems.com/?p=4355 In the world of high-performance windows and doors, one brand stands above the rest in terms of quality, efficiency, and innovation: smartwin™. As American homeowners and builders become increasingly focused on energy efficiency and sustainability, smartwin™ products are emerging as the gold standard in fenestration. Let’s explore what makes smartwin™ so incredibly awesome and why […]

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]]> https://aebuildingsystems.com/why-smartwin-is-revolutionizing-the-window-industry-blog/feed/ 0 Building Science Meets Architectural Beauty: The Stout Street Project https://aebuildingsystems.com/building-science-meets-architectural-beauty-the-stout-street-project-blog/ https://aebuildingsystems.com/building-science-meets-architectural-beauty-the-stout-street-project-blog/#respond Fri, 28 Feb 2025 19:22:29 +0000 https://aebuildingsystems.com/?p=4303 When Josh Oqueli of Bonsai Design Build set out to create his new office and home space on Stout Street in historic Curtis Park, he wanted to showcase how high-performance building principles and striking architectural design could coexist beautifully. The result is a testament to how modern sustainable building practices can enhance both comfort and […]

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]]> https://aebuildingsystems.com/building-science-meets-architectural-beauty-the-stout-street-project-blog/feed/ 0 Alpen Elevates Window Design with Innovative Paint System Upgrade https://aebuildingsystems.com/alpen-elevates-window-design-with-innovative-paint-system-upgrade-blog/ https://aebuildingsystems.com/alpen-elevates-window-design-with-innovative-paint-system-upgrade-blog/#respond Fri, 31 Jan 2025 23:56:24 +0000 https://aebuildingsystems.com/?p=4286 Like a master colorist crafting their masterpiece, Alpen High-Performance Products is revolutionizing the way we think about window finishes. Their new paint system for the Zenith product line isn’t just another coating – it’s a breakthrough in architectural expression. This innovative development combines cutting-edge formulation technology with an expanded color palette, setting new standards for […]

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]]> https://aebuildingsystems.com/alpen-elevates-window-design-with-innovative-paint-system-upgrade-blog/feed/ 0 Elevate Your Space: Introducing Alpen’s New 9-Foot Sliding Glass Doors https://aebuildingsystems.com/elevate-your-space-introducing-alpens-new-9-foot-sliding-glass-doors-blog/ https://aebuildingsystems.com/elevate-your-space-introducing-alpens-new-9-foot-sliding-glass-doors-blog/#respond Thu, 02 Jan 2025 17:12:17 +0000 https://aebuildingsystems.com/?p=4263 When it comes to creating stunning, energy-efficient spaces that seamlessly blend indoor and outdoor living, Alpen High Performance Products continues to push the boundaries of innovation. Their latest announcement has us particularly excited: the new 9-foot tall Grandline Sliding Glass Doors that combines taller sliding doors with better wind-load ratings and superior energy performance. Reaching […]

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]]> https://aebuildingsystems.com/elevate-your-space-introducing-alpens-new-9-foot-sliding-glass-doors-blog/feed/ 0 European Design Influences Meets Rocky Mountain Region https://aebuildingsystems.com/european-design-influences-meets-rocky-mountain-region-blog/ https://aebuildingsystems.com/european-design-influences-meets-rocky-mountain-region-blog/#respond Wed, 30 Oct 2024 22:19:24 +0000 https://aebuildingsystems.com/?p=4103 There’s a little taste of Europe coming out of northwest Kansas and it comes in the form of fenestration! Advantage Architectural Woodwork (AAW) is a friend of ours here at AE Building Systems and we love seeing the amazing windows and doors they create. Working with them is a unique opportunity to get superior design […]

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]]> https://aebuildingsystems.com/european-design-influences-meets-rocky-mountain-region-blog/feed/ 0 Moisture Meets Walls: Five Design Tips to Consider in Your Wall Assembly https://aebuildingsystems.com/moisture-meets-walls-five-design-tips-to-consider-in-your-wall-assembly-blog/ https://aebuildingsystems.com/moisture-meets-walls-five-design-tips-to-consider-in-your-wall-assembly-blog/#respond Mon, 23 Sep 2024 15:48:08 +0000 https://aebuildingsystems.com/?p=4075 We learn from an early age how important walls are. From fables like The Three Little Pigs to building towers with our blocks, we learn pretty quickly how important the walls can be. As we get older, we don’t always think about these powerful structures in our daily life, but we sure are grateful when […]

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]]> https://aebuildingsystems.com/moisture-meets-walls-five-design-tips-to-consider-in-your-wall-assembly-blog/feed/ 0 In the Limelight with “Heart of a Building” & the Avenson Residence https://aebuildingsystems.com/in-the-limelight-with-heart-of-a-building-the-avenson-residence-blog/ https://aebuildingsystems.com/in-the-limelight-with-heart-of-a-building-the-avenson-residence-blog/#respond Mon, 02 Sep 2024 20:34:15 +0000 https://aebuildingsystems.com/?p=4050 In the Limelight with “Heart of a Building” & the Avenson Residence Lights, camera, action! AE Building Systems got a glimpse of the limelight with Heart of a Building and one of our clients. We can’t tell you how excited we were to hear that our client, John Avenson’s home, is featured on the regional […]

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]]> https://aebuildingsystems.com/in-the-limelight-with-heart-of-a-building-the-avenson-residence-blog/feed/ 0 Optimizing Your Window Selection https://aebuildingsystems.com/optimizing-your-window-selection-blog/ https://aebuildingsystems.com/optimizing-your-window-selection-blog/#comments Tue, 30 Jul 2024 22:46:05 +0000 https://aebuildingsystems.com/?p=4014 How to select the best windows based on operation type, performance data, and wall assembly Not all windows and doors are created equally. So, it’s important to understand the needs for YOUR specific project. What works for one project won’t necessarily be optimal for another. Those of us who care a lot about building performance […]

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]]> https://aebuildingsystems.com/optimizing-your-window-selection-blog/feed/ 2 Going All-In on Electric: Insights to Consider to Cut the Gas Line https://aebuildingsystems.com/cut-gas-blog/ https://aebuildingsystems.com/cut-gas-blog/#comments Tue, 02 Jul 2024 01:21:07 +0000 https://aebuildingsystems.com/?p=3988 Saying “buh-bye” to the gas line is a lofty dream for many of us as we work toward a more sustainable lifestyle. If you can go a more sustainable route, why wouldn’t you? However, the barriers to going all-electric can be a little daunting, especially if you’re new to the concept. The utility companies certainly […]

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]]> https://aebuildingsystems.com/cut-gas-blog/feed/ 6 Sustainability Blooms at the Rose Residence https://aebuildingsystems.com/sustainability-blooms-at-the-rose-residence-blog/ https://aebuildingsystems.com/sustainability-blooms-at-the-rose-residence-blog/#comments Sat, 01 Jun 2024 21:35:44 +0000 https://aebuildingsystems.com/?p=3956 The Rose Residence is truly a beautiful bloom within the local community of Boulder, Colorado! This unique home was built with sustainability in mind from the bottom up. So much heart and soul has gone into the Rose Residence, and AE Building Systems was honored to support the team/homeowners with gorgeous high-performance windows to help […]

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]]> https://aebuildingsystems.com/sustainability-blooms-at-the-rose-residence-blog/feed/ 2 High-Performing Windows for High-Performing Homes https://aebuildingsystems.com/high-performing-windows-for-high-performing-homes-blog/ https://aebuildingsystems.com/high-performing-windows-for-high-performing-homes-blog/#respond Fri, 03 May 2024 21:29:47 +0000 https://aebuildingsystems.com/?p=3911 They say you’re the average of the five people you spend the most time with. If we, as a business, took stock of the top five brands we spend our time with, Alpen Windows would be at the top, and their recent evolutions only continue to affirm we’re surrounded by excellence. AE Building Systems & […]

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]]> https://aebuildingsystems.com/high-performing-windows-for-high-performing-homes-blog/feed/ 0 Passive House Design Tested in Rugged Rocky Mountain Winters https://aebuildingsystems.com/passive-house-design-tested-in-rugged-rocky-mountain-winters/ https://aebuildingsystems.com/passive-house-design-tested-in-rugged-rocky-mountain-winters/#respond Thu, 04 Apr 2024 18:19:05 +0000 https://aebuildingsystems.com/?p=3889 A little off the beaten path in Hastings Mesa, Colorado, you’ll find a residential gem amidst views of the San Juan mountains. Just about 30-40 miles outside of Telluride sits Hastings Mesa, and is the location of a recent project highlight our team at AE Building Systems had the pleasure of working with. BTB Construction […]

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]]> https://aebuildingsystems.com/passive-house-design-tested-in-rugged-rocky-mountain-winters/feed/ 0 Furnace Retrofit for All-Around Comfort https://aebuildingsystems.com/furnace-retrofit-for-all-around-comfort-blog/ https://aebuildingsystems.com/furnace-retrofit-for-all-around-comfort-blog/#respond Sat, 02 Mar 2024 01:14:39 +0000 https://aebuildingsystems.com/?p=3860 Furnace Retrofit for All-Around Comfort Welcome back to the Collins/Ruddy Residence, where our very own Todd Collins and his family have been overhauling their entire tri-level home! Some of us have the opportunity to build our dream home from scratch and give it all the sustainable features we want. But for most, we find ourselves […]

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]]> https://aebuildingsystems.com/furnace-retrofit-for-all-around-comfort-blog/feed/ 0 Alpen Climbing Higher With Two Big Announcements https://aebuildingsystems.com/alpen-high-performance-blog/ https://aebuildingsystems.com/alpen-high-performance-blog/#respond Mon, 05 Feb 2024 18:15:04 +0000 https://aebuildingsystems.com/?p=3831 One of our long-time product partners, Alpen High Performance Products (Alpen), has been making headlines recently, and we couldn’t be more excited! Alpen recently shared news of receiving a substantial grant of $5.8 million from the United States Department of Energy (DOE). This funding is part of a broader DOE initiative, allocating $275 million to […]

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]]> https://aebuildingsystems.com/alpen-high-performance-blog/feed/ 0 Goodbye Gas Line: How the Collins-Ruddy Residence Reduced Their Reliance on Natural Gas https://aebuildingsystems.com/heat-pump-water-heater-blog/ https://aebuildingsystems.com/heat-pump-water-heater-blog/#comments Sat, 30 Dec 2023 21:59:50 +0000 https://aebuildingsystems.com/?p=3808 Join us today as we dive into another big update for the Collins-Ruddy residence. Todd Collins and his family have been on a multi-phased journey to retrofit their existing home in Golden, Colorado. They’re on a journey to become as close to net zero as possible, while still maintaining a comfortable environment to live in. […]

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]]> https://aebuildingsystems.com/heat-pump-water-heater-blog/feed/ 3 The Yeti is in the Details: Window Spacers https://aebuildingsystems.com/window-spacers-blog/ https://aebuildingsystems.com/window-spacers-blog/#respond Tue, 31 Oct 2023 04:11:13 +0000 https://aebuildingsystems.com/?p=3748 You may have heard the devil is in the details, but when it comes to ice buildup on a cold window, we know it’s probably more fitting for the abominable snowman. Have you ever wondered why ice forms around the edges of your windows on a cold day first? You may look at a window […]

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]]> https://aebuildingsystems.com/window-spacers-blog/feed/ 0 Options for Large Windows in High Wind Load Areas https://aebuildingsystems.com/windows-in-high-wind-load-blog/ https://aebuildingsystems.com/windows-in-high-wind-load-blog/#comments Thu, 28 Sep 2023 04:28:45 +0000 https://aebuildingsystems.com/?p=3713 “It is the great north wind that made the Vikings.” – Scandinavian Proverb If the great north wind helped make the epic, strong Vikings, it’s no wonder that the wind impacts some of the recent innovations to create better, stronger construction practices! We’re seeing it happen day in and day out with new approaches for […]

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]]> https://aebuildingsystems.com/windows-in-high-wind-load-blog/feed/ 3 Going Extinct: Saying Goodbye to Fossil Fuels and Hello to Net-Zero-Energy https://aebuildingsystems.com/fossil-fuel-ban-blog/ https://aebuildingsystems.com/fossil-fuel-ban-blog/#respond Thu, 31 Aug 2023 03:24:07 +0000 https://aebuildingsystems.com/?p=3688 Just like the dinosaurs, fossil fuels are going extinct in some communities! We’ve heard it mentioned for years, but many communities are starting to put policies in place to actually reduce the reliance on fossil fuels. Fossil fuel bans are showing up more and more in municipalities and communities around the United States and creating […]

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]]> https://aebuildingsystems.com/fossil-fuel-ban-blog/feed/ 0 Rebuilding with Sustainable Purpose After the Marshall Fire https://aebuildingsystems.com/marshall-fire-resources-blog/ https://aebuildingsystems.com/marshall-fire-resources-blog/#respond Thu, 27 Jul 2023 02:52:16 +0000 https://aebuildingsystems.com/?p=3663 Two years ago, we watched in horror as the racing winds spread the Marshall Fire faster than anyone could imagine. The location made it all even worse as we saw entire blocks of homes go up in flames. With any tragedy, we all want to help but we often forget about the needs after the […]

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]]> https://aebuildingsystems.com/marshall-fire-resources-blog/feed/ 0 Upcoming Events for the Sustainable Building Industry https://aebuildingsystems.com/sustainable-building-events-blog/ https://aebuildingsystems.com/sustainable-building-events-blog/#comments Sat, 01 Jul 2023 13:49:28 +0000 https://aebuildingsystems.com/?p=3652 Sustainable Building Events You Won’t Want To Miss Wanting to get involved in the local conversation around building and sustainability? At AE Building Systems, we’re very active in local and regional conversations, and we believe strongly in the importance of knowing what’s happening in the industry. Education is key, and involvement helps move the needle. […]

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]]> https://aebuildingsystems.com/sustainable-building-events-blog/feed/ 1 The CSAB Journey with Todd Collins https://aebuildingsystems.com/golden-community-sustainability-blog/ https://aebuildingsystems.com/golden-community-sustainability-blog/#respond Fri, 02 Jun 2023 16:07:35 +0000 https://aebuildingsystems.com/?p=3634 Todd’s Involvement On Golden’s Community Sustainability Advisory Board One thing you’ll notice when you get to know the AE Building Systems team is that Todd Collins cares A LOT about sustainable design. He lives and breathes it. So, it’s no wonder he has spread that passion for sustainable building and design into his community interactions […]

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]]> https://aebuildingsystems.com/golden-community-sustainability-blog/feed/ 0 Grid Electrification in our Backyard: How Golden, Colorado is Raising the Bar for Sustainability https://aebuildingsystems.com/grid-electrification-in-our-backyard-how-golden-colorado-is-raising-the-bar-for-sustainability-blog/ https://aebuildingsystems.com/grid-electrification-in-our-backyard-how-golden-colorado-is-raising-the-bar-for-sustainability-blog/#respond Thu, 27 Apr 2023 19:52:00 +0000 https://aebuildingsystems.com/?p=3610 The high-altitude hamlet of Golden, Colorado is making waves with its initiative to mandate all-electric building construction in 2024. This new construction requirement is aligned with the city’s climate action goals, which aim to achieve 100% renewable energy for heating by 2050. In doing so, Golden is setting the example for other towns and cities […]

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]]> https://aebuildingsystems.com/grid-electrification-in-our-backyard-how-golden-colorado-is-raising-the-bar-for-sustainability-blog/feed/ 0 Passive Solar Design vs Passive House Design: Two Distinct Approaches to Energy Efficiency https://aebuildingsystems.com/passive-solar-design-vs-passive-house-design/ https://aebuildingsystems.com/passive-solar-design-vs-passive-house-design/#comments Thu, 06 Apr 2023 21:57:22 +0000 https://aebuildingsystems.com/?p=3579 Passive is passive, right?  When someone talks of passive designs, they are pretty much the same, correct?  While both Passive Solar Design (PSD) and Passive House (PH) may sound similar, they are actually two distinct approaches to design and construction. They often get lumped in the same category, and people can confuse the two easily. […]

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]]> https://aebuildingsystems.com/passive-solar-design-vs-passive-house-design/feed/ 2 Energy-Minded Design: The Balance Between Form & Function https://aebuildingsystems.com/energy-efficient-design/ https://aebuildingsystems.com/energy-efficient-design/#respond Fri, 03 Mar 2023 18:26:20 +0000 https://aebuildingsystems.com/?p=3512 There are some pretty snazzy design ideas out there in the world. If you look at design contests, architectural school projects, or even just down your own street, you’ll probably see some very beautiful designs that simply don’t make a lot of practical sense. It comes back to the age-old question of form vs. function. […]

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]]> https://aebuildingsystems.com/energy-efficient-design/feed/ 0 Passion for Sustainability at the Poindexter House https://aebuildingsystems.com/sustainable-home-design-pointdexter/ https://aebuildingsystems.com/sustainable-home-design-pointdexter/#comments Thu, 02 Feb 2023 22:29:15 +0000 https://aebuildingsystems.com/?p=3477 Combine a little bit of personality and A LOT of passion for sustainability and you get an amazing home! The Poindexter/Kavan Project is living proof of this, and we’re thrilled to be a small part of this home’s story. We can’t wait to share this amazing project with you.  About Amanda and CJ: Amanda and […]

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]]> https://aebuildingsystems.com/sustainable-home-design-pointdexter/feed/ 1 The Same, Yet Different: The Key Differences in Window & Door Design from Europe to the United States https://aebuildingsystems.com/window-door-design/ https://aebuildingsystems.com/window-door-design/#comments Thu, 05 Jan 2023 19:35:01 +0000 https://aebuildingsystems.com/?p=3490 So much of our life in the United States is heavily influenced by and similar to Europe. However, one area that has some pretty significant differences is in the design and construction of windows and doors. When you look at how life in Europe evolved and has more mixed-use, urban influences to residential design, as […]

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]]> https://aebuildingsystems.com/window-door-design/feed/ 3 Love the Home You’re In: LaDuke Residence Remodel https://aebuildingsystems.com/sustainable-remodel/ https://aebuildingsystems.com/sustainable-remodel/#respond Sun, 06 Nov 2022 19:47:08 +0000 https://aebuildingsystems.com/?p=3439 What do you get when you cross a sustainably-minded contractor with a home in deep need of an energy overhaul? You get the LaDuke Residence remodel, and the final product is truly something to admire. Jonathan LaDuke has a passion for green building, and as a contractor by trade, he oversaw this remodel on his […]

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]]> https://aebuildingsystems.com/sustainable-remodel/feed/ 0 How do you make change in the world?  https://aebuildingsystems.com/how-do-you-make-change-in-the-world-blog/ https://aebuildingsystems.com/how-do-you-make-change-in-the-world-blog/#respond Tue, 04 Oct 2022 21:35:00 +0000 https://aebuildingsystems.com/?p=3400 Change happens slowly and in small ways, with every single purchase and every decision we make. As consumers, we each have opportunities to make decisions and at AE Building Systems, we’re at the core of these small, everyday decisions that are making a real difference in our world. But, another way change happens is when […]

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]]> https://aebuildingsystems.com/how-do-you-make-change-in-the-world-blog/feed/ 0 Tour Local Passive House Designs https://aebuildingsystems.com/tour-local-passive-house-designs-blog/ https://aebuildingsystems.com/tour-local-passive-house-designs-blog/#comments Tue, 06 Sep 2022 14:40:43 +0000 https://aebuildingsystems.com/?p=3381 Green geeks united this summer at Emu Building Science’s 2022 Passive House Open Days! What a great event, and amazing that this event will be coming back again later this fall!  Emu started creating a Passive Haus Days Tour to celebrate local Passive Home designs and construction. Similar to other home tours, attendees can sign […]

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]]> https://aebuildingsystems.com/tour-local-passive-house-designs-blog/feed/ 2 Project Spotlight – Smithworks project @ Crested Butte https://aebuildingsystems.com/project-spotlight-smithworks-project-crested-butte-blog/ https://aebuildingsystems.com/project-spotlight-smithworks-project-crested-butte-blog/#respond Tue, 02 Aug 2022 20:29:00 +0000 https://aebuildingsystems.com/?p=3343 You CAN Have it All: Form & Function Unite in Crested Butte – Smithworks Restorative Lake House You know what gets us really excited? It makes our day to see sustainable products in action for real families. That’s why we’re thrilled to share the Smithworks project with you today!  The Smithworks Team Smithworks has a […]

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]]> https://aebuildingsystems.com/project-spotlight-smithworks-project-crested-butte-blog/feed/ 0 Thinking About Air Quality Gets Front & Center https://aebuildingsystems.com/thinking-about-air-quality-gets-front-center-blog/ https://aebuildingsystems.com/thinking-about-air-quality-gets-front-center-blog/#comments Tue, 05 Jul 2022 20:17:00 +0000 https://aebuildingsystems.com/?p=3332 We bet you have thought about air quality a few more times since 2020 than you ever did before! The recent pandemic has made so many of us aware of the particles in the air we breathe that can make us sick. Those of us in Passive Home design have always been aware of air […]

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]]> https://aebuildingsystems.com/thinking-about-air-quality-gets-front-center-blog/feed/ 1 Passive Window Design for Optimal Performance https://aebuildingsystems.com/https-aebuildingsystems-com-passive-window-design-for-optimal-performance-blog/ https://aebuildingsystems.com/https-aebuildingsystems-com-passive-window-design-for-optimal-performance-blog/#respond Tue, 07 Jun 2022 17:31:00 +0000 https://aebuildingsystems.com/?p=3321 You thought windows were really simple and easy, right? Well, think again, my friends! When you pair high-efficiency windows with high altitude and differing sun exposures, you soon discover there are many possible ways you can not only optimize your window performance, but also set yourself up for failure! Thin Air Altitude is no joke, […]

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]]> https://aebuildingsystems.com/https-aebuildingsystems-com-passive-window-design-for-optimal-performance-blog/feed/ 0 Anatomy of a Window: Basics for High-Performance Windows https://aebuildingsystems.com/anatomy-of-a-window-basics-for-high-performance-windows-blog/ https://aebuildingsystems.com/anatomy-of-a-window-basics-for-high-performance-windows-blog/#respond Tue, 03 May 2022 18:14:00 +0000 https://aebuildingsystems.com/?p=3300 It’s time to get up close and personal with windows! We usually just focus on the scene we can see through the window, but what looks so simple can actually be very complex.  There are three main sections to the overall anatomy of a window: frames, spacers, and glass. While we often focus on the […]

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]]> https://aebuildingsystems.com/anatomy-of-a-window-basics-for-high-performance-windows-blog/feed/ 0 Debunking the Myth that Insulation is ALWAYS Better Than Glazing for Thermal Performance https://aebuildingsystems.com/blog-debunking-the-myth-that-insulation-is-always-better-than-glazing-for-thermal-performance/ https://aebuildingsystems.com/blog-debunking-the-myth-that-insulation-is-always-better-than-glazing-for-thermal-performance/#comments Fri, 01 Apr 2022 17:32:06 +0000 https://aebuildingsystems.com/?p=3279 The immediate place our minds go when it comes to improving the performance of a wall is to insulate. That seems to be the easiest and simplest approach to improving performance and energy efficiency. But, what if we told you the glazing is where you really get the bigger bang for your buck? Would you […]

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]]> https://aebuildingsystems.com/blog-debunking-the-myth-that-insulation-is-always-better-than-glazing-for-thermal-performance/feed/ 3 Collins Residence Part II https://aebuildingsystems.com/collins-residence-part-ii/ https://aebuildingsystems.com/collins-residence-part-ii/#comments Tue, 01 Mar 2022 17:34:06 +0000 https://aebuildingsystems.com/?p=3263 Last month, we took you on a behind-the-scenes peek at the Collins-Ruddy project. This tri-level home was a retrofit from a 1970’s where energy-efficiency was clearly not in the original blueprint of the home. Todd and his family began a journey to improve the energy loss in their home, and incorporate Passive Haus techniques wherever […]

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]]> https://aebuildingsystems.com/collins-residence-part-ii/feed/ 8 Collins-Ruddy Residence Part I https://aebuildingsystems.com/collins-residence-part-i/ https://aebuildingsystems.com/collins-residence-part-i/#comments Wed, 02 Feb 2022 15:00:00 +0000 https://aebuildingsystems.com/?p=3237 Here’s a look at how the Collins-Ruddy family worked to retrofit their home… We like to practice what we preach here at AE Building Systems, which is why we’re excited to share about a project for our very own Todd Collins! (If you haven’t met Todd yet, below is a quick intro.) The Collins-Ruddy Residence […]

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]]> https://aebuildingsystems.com/collins-residence-part-i/feed/ 9 Evergreen Home Marries Form with Function: Summit View Residence https://aebuildingsystems.com/evergreen-home-marries-form-with-function-summit-view-residence/ https://aebuildingsystems.com/evergreen-home-marries-form-with-function-summit-view-residence/#comments Tue, 04 Jan 2022 20:14:00 +0000 https://aebuildingsystems.com/?p=3202 At AE Building Systems, we love seeing products in action, especially when they are at work in smart ways. That’s why we love seeing the progress at the Summit View  project, nestled right in the heart of the Rockies. This home reflects the beauty of design, and the high-quality foundation of energy efficiency at the […]

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