What is Schluter Systems?
Schluter (pronounced sh-loo-ter) Systems is a company that manufactures and distributes installation systems for showers and other tiled surfaces. They offer a range of products that are designed to provide protection, support, and waterproofing. Schluter System products are commonly used in both residential and commercial tile installations.
At Shipley Remodel, we exclusively use Schluter Shower Systems for tiled showers because of their high standard in waterproofing. We use their KERDI line of products for showers and DITRA for floors. Both are 100% customizable to any size/shape of space. KERDI is a pliable sheet waterproofing membrane. DITRA is an uncoupling membrane that allows for movement underneath your tiles (caused by temperature fluctuations and things of that nature) and protects your tile and grout from cracking due to fluctuation. It is also waterproof and Schluter DETRA offers a heated option for easy heated floor installation!
You can visit the Schluter website to learn more about the products they offer, watch instructional videos, or register for live a live online training if you’re thinking about tackling your shower on your own! And if you’re thinking about hiring Shipley Remodel to do your tile shower, rest assured that we are passionate about both your beautiful finished product as well as the longevity and health of your shower.
Call Caleb for a free estimate, email Jess with blog post questions and ideas!
Caleb - (417)-844-5011
Jess - jess@shipleyremodel.com
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Remodeling Your Bathroom
Not budgeting for the entire project
When you’re thinking about remodeling your bathroom, of course you know you’ll have the cost of your new flooring, a vanity, new shower, updated lighting, and all those pretty things you notice when you walk in. But be sure to include all the little things you purchase for a bathroom such as valves, fittings, other things of that sort and a (not so little) waterproofing system -(more on that a couple points down). You also need to take into account any parts of the remodel that may need hired out. Are you moving any major plumbing? Are you moving lights fixtures around or simply switching out fixtures? You may need to hire a plumber or electrician to make any major changes and you’ll want to receive estimates from those individuals and know the going rate for their services before you start shutting off your water and tearing out your shower.
Underestimating the value of lighting
We’ve seen people do entire bathroom remodels and not think about light fixtures till the very end and then rush out and just grab something new real quick. But the lighting in a room has such a bigger impact than you might realize and should be given a bit more attention. Poorly planned lighting can lead to harsh shadows, a cluttered looking bathroom, or an unattractive design. Make sure to research and plan the lighting carefully.
Choosing inappropriate materials
When it comes to bathrooms, there are some materials that you just should not use. One example of this would be normal drywall. You don’t want to put the same standard drywall in your bathroom that you would put in your living room. Bathrooms are extremely humid and deal with a great amount of moisture and you want to make sure you use mold and mildew resistant drywall. Another material you want to keep out of your bathroom is any laminate flooring. Laminate flooring is essentially compressed cardboard and after a short while, with water getting on it, it will puff up and expand with the water and become unsightly and a moisture collecting mold hazard. Caleb recommends using tiles or at least 5 mm thick luxury vinal plank flooring in bathrooms. You need to have a waterproof membrane behind any tiles you put in a bathroom, and a very vast majority of LVP options come already waterproof.
Neglecting ventilation
This area can get neglected in a lot of DIY remodels, especially, because it gets forgotten, overlooked, or the individual remodeling the bathroom thinks the vent fans look ugly. While it’s true that a lot of vent fans do look ugly, you can get nicely designed ones and neglecting to properly ventilate any bathroom is arguably one of the worst things you can do to your home. A vent fan’s job is to suck remaining moisture out of the air and send it away. If you have the ability to, the healthiest option for your home (and your family in terms of minimizing the risk of mold growth and exposure) is to make sure that your vent fan is routed to deposit all the humid air it’s carrying outside as opposed to into your attic. A lot of vent fans are only moving air to the attic which means that yeah maybe your bathroom isn’t storing up extra moisture and becoming a good cozy environment for mold to grow but your attic very well may be.
Trying to cut costs on waterproofing
There are many places you can wiggle your budget and cut some costs but don’t let waterproofing your bathroom be one of those places. As stated in some of my previous points, we know bathrooms deal with a lot of water and a lot of moisture, making them the prime location of some potential water damage disasters. From avoiding rotting structural support beams to the infestation of toxic mold, you have good reason to use a system you can trust. We use and trust Schluter Shower Systems. Tile and grout are not waterproof. The membranes from Schluter that you put behind them are! Follow this link to check out their website and look over how their system is set up and check out this YouTube video for a good instructional video on installation.
In conclusion, remodeling mistakes can be very costly, both financially and emotionally. It is therefore important to plan in advance and research potential issues in order to ensure a successful remodeling project. With some forethought, knowledge, and organization, homeowners can avoid many of the pitfalls common with remodeling projects and have a successful and enjoyable experience.
Call Caleb for a free estimate, email Jess with blog post questions and ideas!
Caleb - (417)-844-5011
Jess - jess@shipleyremodel.com
DIY Remodel Dos and Don’ts
When you’re thinking about starting a DIY remodel, there is a lot to consider. While DIY projects can be fun and rewarding, there are also some potential pitfalls to avoid. Here are some DIY remodeling dos and don’ts to help guide your project!
DIY Remodel Dos
•Plan ahead: Take some time to evaluate the scope of your project and plan it out as best as possible. It’s always a good idea to create a timeline and list of materials you’ll need in order to keep the project organized and on track.
•Create a budget: It’s easy to get carried away with projects, so make sure to establish and stick to a budget. Consider how much you can comfortably spend without compromising safety or overall quality.
•Take before and after pictures: and plenty of photos and videos of your process! We always regret it when we forget to do this. It’s fun to remember how far you’ve come and it can also be a huge motivator to keep going when you start to get exhausted and tired of your project.
DIY Remodel Don’ts
•Don’t take on a project that’s outside of your skill set: Even for the most experienced DIYers, there are certain tasks and projects that are better left to the experts. If you’re unsure if you can handle the task, estimate how much time it might take and decide if it’s worth your while.
•Don’t skimp on tools and materials: A poorly-executed project is worse than no project at all. Make sure you have the right tools and materials needed to get the job done right the first time.
•Don’t quit too soon: it can be easy to slow down or stop your project all together when you get the space you’re working on to that point where it isn’t quite finished, but the floors are done, the walls are mostly painted but maybe you haven’t but all the outlet covers back on or installed trim. It can be tempting to start moving furniture back in and let the family and kid start inhabiting the space again but don’t do it! Finish that room out and you will be so proud that you did!
By following these simple DIY remodeling dos and don’ts, you’ll be well on your way to a successful home improvement project. So get started, and have fun!
Call Caleb for a free estimate, email Jess with blog post questions and ideas!
Caleb - (417)-844-5011
Jess - jess@shipleyremodel.com
4 Home Improvement Projects For Colder Weather
With just a handful of winter weeks left, it can be difficult to find the motivation to work on home improvement projects. You may be tempted to sit and wait for it to warm up for good outside before you get to tackling any home projects but it can be so good for your mood to keep some projects rolling and update your space to keep it fresh and exciting through this season that can be so depressing for some. Below are four home improvement projects you can tackle while it’s too cold to get out and about.
1. This first one is a little more “boring” than some of the others, but always healthy for your home and a great thing to check off your list every year: Check and seal doors and windows. Cold weather can be particularly hard on door and window seals, so now is the time to check those and seal up any drafts. Taking the time to do this will help keep heat in and the cold out, saving you money on heating costs as well as preventing leaks and costly water damage.
2. Replace worn carpet: Old carpets can be unsightly and difficult to clean up. Replacing them with new carpets will improve the look and feel of your home and make your feet extra happy to hit that soft floor in the morning. If your floors are like mine, they’ve taken a lot of abuse the past few months with kids, the dog, and a husband coming home covered in snow, mud, and in the case of my husband- saw dust and drywall. You deserve fresh carpet. If you’ve got hard floors, consider treating yourself to a new rug in your favorite coziest colors!
3. Paint interior walls: Nothing refreshes a room like a new coat of paint. Take this opportunity to choose warm, neutral colors that not only look great but also make the room feel more inviting and cozy. Keep an eye out for a future blog post I’ll be writing about trending paint colors and how to choose a color that will fit your vision and compliment the rest of your home and furniture! (And by all means, if you are on the search for help with paint colors and I don’t have that post up yet, feel free to reach out! My advice is always free!)
4. Update fixtures: It’s also a great time to update worn fixtures such as faucets and light fittings. Not only will it bring a fresher look to the room, but you’ll also have the added benefit of improved functionality. Sometimes you can fit mix and matched finishes of fixtures into a design, but it is typically a safer bet to buy all matching. Matte black has been a trending finish as of recent but my personal favorite at the moment may be matte gold! Especially if you’re trying to liven up your space and bring your home out of the winter blues. Don’t forget to replace your towel racks, toilet paper holder, shower curtain rod, and possibly even door handles! You’d be amazed how fresh your rooms will feel with these simple swap-outs!
Take advantage of the fact that the cold weather keeps you indoors and use it to get some home improvement projects done! You’ll be glad you did!
Call Caleb for a free estimate, email Jess with blog post questions and ideas!
Caleb - (417)-844-5011
Jess - jess@shipleyremodel.com
7 Home Remodeling Tips From The Pros
Remodeling your home can be a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be. With the right planning, resources, and tips from professionals in the industry, you can transform your living space into your dream home. Whether you’re looking to update your kitchen, revamp your bathroom, or give your living room a fresh new look, there’s a lot to consider. That’s why in this blog post, I’ve gathered expert tips and advice to help you get started. From budgeting and planning tips to window installation and door frames, you’ll find everything you need to know to tackle your home renovation project with confidence. So, let’s dive in and start creating the home of your dreams!
Start with a plan:
Before you start your remodel, have a clear idea of what you want to achieve and the budget you have to work with. You can draw out plans, have rendered photos made up, create boards and visuals where you can see all pieces of your design come together before all the work begins so that you can see how it will all look together. This will help ensure a smooth and successful project.
Pay attention to the details:
Small details can make a big impact on the overall look and feel of a space. Pay attention to things like lighting and hardware. Many people will plan the paint color, flooring choices, cabinets or vanity, and other obvious big pieces in a space and make it close to the end of their project and either neglect to update lighting, or rush out and grab something at the last minute and same goes for hardware. But they are so important and can make a huge statement! Be sure to include the little things when you are making your plan.
Select Quality Materials:
When selecting materials, choose options that are durable and high quality. This will save you time and money in the long run. You do not have to buy the most expensive options, but if you choose the cheapest option, you will be repairing or replacing soon. This goes for nearly everything on your supply list, but two really good examples of this are paint and flooring.
We lived in an apartment for the first few months that we lived in the Springfield area, and it had the cheapest paint option on its walls. It felt like paper and I couldn’t clean anything off of it. If you spend a little bit more on paint, it will stand up to all the things life can throws at it and you’ll be able to clean your walls when it’s necessary!
With flooring, you can get some pretty low cost vinyl, laminate and carpet but like the paint, it just doesn’t hold up. Especially if you ever have kids or animals on it. It just deteriorates and damages very quickly and you will spend more replacing it sooner than if you invest in slightly higher quality flooring from the get go. Caleb recommends your starting price for flooring to be between $3 and $4 per square foot. Obviously, you can spend far more if you have it in your budget and you will love it, but $3-4 is a good starting price for flooring that will be nice for a long time for you.
This one is going to be short but important:
(and believe me- I’m the stay at home housewife of Caleb’s who hears about it when he comes home from correcting this mistake for other people) and it’s this: When framing windows or doors leave a 1/2 inch gap on all sides of the window or door for expansion and contraction. If you just read that, have plans to install a door or a window soon, and like me had no idea what it meant, look it up or call Caleb. If you knew exactly what it meant, hats off to you and Caleb will be happy to not be at your house in a few months uninstalling and fixing that door and window!
Consider energy efficiency:
Invest in energy-efficient products, such as windows, insulation, and appliances, to reduce your energy bills. I’m going to be making a post in the future about energy efficient windows at different price points, so stay tuned for that! Until that post is up, if you’re in the market for these things and you aren’t sure where to start, feel free to reach out to Caleb to get good advice- he knows a lot about these options.
You may decide to hire a professional contractor:
Hiring a professional contractor with experience and a good reputation can help ensure that your project is completed on time, within budget, and to a high standard of quality. You may be able to do all your work for far cheaper than it will cost you to hire someone, but we’ve been the remodeler who’s come in and supported homeowners with portions of their project they just don’t feel comfortable or equipped to complete and we’ve also been asked to come take over entire projects because the homeowner just didn’t realize the toll it would take on their family to have the house under construction for months while dad is only able to work on it around his already busy work schedule. When you can have a company come in, who does this kind of work all day everyday, they’ve got tons of experience, and they’re working 8 hours a day in your home while you’re out at your own job, the remodel moves so much faster and you can get to enjoying that new fresh space far sooner than if you took it all on yourself.
Bonus tip: if you haven’t done tile before and you’re thinking about installing your own tile, Caleb says “Go for it!” on the floor and kitchen backsplashes. And he says “Save yourself and call a professional.” on tile showers. If you DIY the entire rest of your bathroom, we highly recommend hiring someone if you plan to do a tile shower. You can make some little mistakes and save it and correct things with your floors and kitchen backsplashes. With your shower, you want to know that it is done right. So not only should you hire someone, you should hire someone who has experience and knows what they’re doing. You 1- do not want to have any part of your shower less than 100% waterproof and 2- cutting tiles and getting measurements and design just right in showers can be very difficult and Caleb has already learned all the expensive lessons that take experience to learn and you don’t want your shower to turn into a expensive lesson for yourself.
7. Keep resale value in mind:
While you may love bold, unique design elements, keep in mind that not all buyers will share your tastes. If you are in a home you plan on being in for a long time, I say go for it! You should absolutely have everything you want in your home and it should be your favorite place! However, if you are remodeling to increase the appeal your house could have on potential buyers in any near future, you may want to opt for timeless, neutral designs that will appeal to a wider range of buyers.
In conclusion, remodeling your home can be a thrilling and rewarding experience if done right. With the right tips, resources, and guidance, you can transform your living space into your dream home. By following the expert advice and tips shared in this blog post, you’ll be well on your way to making your home renovation project a success!
Call Caleb for a free estimate, email Jess with blog post questions and ideas!
Caleb - (417)-844-5011
Jess - jess@shipleyremodel.com
8 Beautiful Kitchen Designs To Inspire You
The kitchen is often considered the heart of the home, and it's not hard to see why. It’s where families come together to cook, eat, and socialize, making it an essential part of any home. A well-designed kitchen can make meal preparation easier, increase storage space, and enhance the overall look and feel of your home.
In this post, I’m going to showcase 8 inspiring kitchen designs that will get your creative juices flowing. From modern and minimalist to rustic and cozy, I’ve got you covered!
Kitchen Design #1: Modern Minimalist
This sleek and stylish kitchen design features clean lines, a monochromatic color scheme, and a minimalist aesthetic. The key elements of this design include simple smooth cabinets, flat surfaces, and a simple backsplash. The use of natural light and a neutral color palette make this kitchen feel spacious and calming. The minimalist design is easy to maintain and can make even the smallest kitchens feel a bit larger. The simple color scheme makes redecorating for seasons, holidays or parties an absolute breeze as you can easily change the whole feel of the room by switching out a few small pieces.
#2 Rustic Charm
This Charming kitchen design brings a touch of the outdoors inside with its use natural materials and warm colors. Some key elements of this design include reclaimed wood cabinetry, brick or stone accents, and a farmhouse sink. Adding vintage light fixtures or a unique wooden island would make your rustic kitchen feel even more cozy and inviting. Make sure to use a mixture of old and new elements in this space to add unique character and interest!
#3 Industrial
This edgy kitchen design combines raw materials, such as concrete and steel, with modern features to create a unique and bold look. Industrial kitchens often include concrete countertops, stainless steel appliances, and exposed ductwork. The use of dark colors and minimal decor makes this kitchen feel a bit more masculine and sophisticated than some of its counterparts.
#4 Mid Century Modern
I love every single kitchen on this list, but this is one of my all time favorites! The design is absolutely timeless. In mid century modern designed kitchens, you’re almost guaranteed to find simple and clean lines, minimalism, and a focus on functionality. It often features natural materials such as wood, stone, and metal, with an emphasis on neutral colors, such as white, beige, and brown. Mid-century modern kitchens also often incorporate bold geometric shapes and curved forms, and I just LOVE the uniqueness and simplicity of this style.
#5 Mediterranean Style
Mediterranean-style kitchens are inspired by the sunny climates and relaxed lifestyle of the Mediterranean region. They have warm and inviting atmospheres and boast beautiful earthy colors, natural materials, and intricate details. Mediterranean kitchens often feature terracotta or stone floor tiles, arched doorways, and hand-painted tiles.
The cabinets are often made of wood and sometimes painted in warm hues, and the countertops are often made of natural stone. The overall design incorporates a mix of rustic and elegant elements, creating a welcoming and inviting space for cooking and entertaining that is bound to impress guests and make everyone want you to host the gatherings!
#6 Coastal
I know I mentioned a few designs ago that the Mid Century Modern design was one of my top favorites. Well this is my other one. If you choose this kitchen as your style for your next remodel, can I be your first dinner guest??
This kitchen design is inspired by the relaxed and breezy atmosphere of seaside living. It features light and airy color palettes with blues, whites, and sandy beiges, and natural materials, such as wood and stone, to evoke the feel of being near the water. Coastal kitchens often incorporate beach-inspired details, such as wainscoting, shiplap walls, and beadboard ceilings, as well as nautical accents, such as rope-wrapped barstools and lanterns.
#7 Country Farmhouse
The country farmhouse kitchen design is very cozy, welcoming and does not go out of style. It features warm and inviting colors, such as warm whites, creams, and soft blues, and natural materials, such as wood and stone, to create a comfortable and homey feel. Country farmhouse kitchens often incorporate traditional elements, such as beadboard walls, farmhouse sinks, cabinetry with glass-paned doors, and rustic accents, such as woven baskets, stenciled signs, and vintage finds. The design often incorporates an open and airy floor plan, with large windows and natural light, as well as a large island counter or a traditional farmhouse table for dining and entertaining. Overall, country farmhouse kitchen design prioritizes comfort and charm, creating a warm and inviting space for cooking and gathering with loved ones.
#8 Cottage
Last but certainly not least, I bring you the sweet, comforting, cottage kitchen style!
Cottage kitchens are known for their charming and cozy atmosphere, inspired by the classic charm of rural cottages. They feature soft and muted colors, natural materials like wood and stone, and vintage-style elements like shaker cabinetry, and vintage hardware. Cottage kitchens prioritize both comfort and functionality and will have you
wanting to spend your afternoons baking fresh bread and picking vegetables from your garden! This design gives me all the homesteading vibes and makes me think there has to be an adorable flock of chickens outside laying fresh eggs to use every morning!
From modern and minimalist to rustic and cozy, these 8 inspiring kitchen designs showcase the many different ways you can create a functional and stylish space in your home. Whether you're a fan of sleek and contemporary designs or warm and inviting spaces, or want to make your southern Missouri home feel a little closer to the beach, like me, there's something for everyone in this list!
I hope this inspires you to create the kitchen of your dreams!
Stayed tuned for future posts like DIY Remodel Dos and Don’ts, Remodel Tips from the Pros, Steps To Take When Preparing For a Remodel and more helpful content!
Schluter Shower Systems
Are you trying to design a tile shower that is both beautiful and durable? Using a Schluter shower system is one of the greatest ways to accomplish this. For waterproofing and safeguarding tiled showers, Schluter shower systems provide a complete solution, giving you confidence in the security of your shower.
At Shipley Remodel, we have several years of experience installing custom tile showers using Schluter. We know how to ensure you get a high quality custom tile shower. Additionally, the Schluter shower system offers numerous advantages for your shower, such as:
• Increased waterproofing: they are made to prevent water from leaking into your walls and floors through the grout and causing damage over time.
• Increased strength and durability: the Schluter shower system is made to resist daily wear and tear. An excellent option for high-humidity environments, it is also mold and mildew resistant.
• Custom design: Schluter shower systems may be modified to fit any size or form of shower. You can create any look with them because they are available in a number of colors and finishes.
Who is Shipley Remodel?
Shipley Remodel began, officially, in 2021, but the heart and drive started long before then.
Caleb Shipley: the man, the myth, the legend! (Wife typing—he’d never say that about himself.) Caleb grew up in a small town in North Central Kansas working on rental houses, building sheds, and all kinds of things with his dad. When other kids were toddling around asking for apple juice and cheese puffs, (don't get me wrong—I’m sure Caleb consumed an impressive amount of apple juice and cheese puffs) Caleb was following his dad around the garage endangering his limbs with screwdrivers and power tools.
Caleb has always enjoyed the hard work of both creating new things and fixing old things. In fact, there’s a story his mom loves to tell of a time when Caleb was around 8 or 9 years old and they had a little kiddie pool that their dog had chewed holes in and Caleb took it out to the garage. With a heart full of hope and a head full of determination, little Caleb put a wood burning tool to the many many chewed up holes in the pool in hopes of soldering the thing back together. His heart was absolutely broken when he just couldn’t close all the holes and save the pool and mom and dad decided it was time to toss it.
Caleb has carried that passion through his whole life as he learned and grew and tried new things. He has worn many hats on his journey to become who he is today and he has always worked his hardest at everything he’s done.
Caleb always knew he wanted to be a husband, dad and business owner. In the beginning of 2021, we had been married for almost 3 years and our sweet oldest baby, Kinsley, was coming up on her first birthday. We had decided to prioritize me staying at home with the baby and Caleb was our only source of income. He was driving a truck for Coca-Cola making $19/hour and we were only making enough to pay for bills and necessities. We knew we wanted more kids, a bigger house for the kids, a car that we could get a couple more carseats into, and that this trucking job wasn’t going to provide for us to grow our family and cover any more expenses than the few that we already had.
Caleb had always dreamed of owning a business, and he had one skill that seemed to be the skill people were always calling him up and asking him to use. Friends, old coworkers, and people who just heard about him from around town would call him up and ask for help working on their houses. “Residential remodels” had been second nature to him since childhood! So that first couple years of our marriage, after trucking all day he’d occasionally be out on the evenings or weekend flipping a bathroom, installing flooring or helping someone flip a house to sell!
In February (still 2021), a pastor from another church in town called Caleb and asked him to help patch some of his roof up on a house he was trying to get sold. Caleb realized up on the roof of that house that he needed to take a leap (not literally from the roof) and start his own business. He had the skill and potential to provide so much more for our family and had hopes of blessing others in the future. When he wrapped the roofing job up, he put out our first advertisement in our town, went and did an estimate, landed one bathroom remodel job and quit Coca-Cola on faith that God would provide more jobs before the bathroom remodel was finished. And He did!
“The rest is history” or whatever you want to call it, but here we are in Republic, Missouri 2 years later and God has blessed us every step of the way! As our company grows and we bring on some employees and purchase bigger trucks and trailers, a few things will remain true:
We Honor God, we prioritize families. and we commit to serve our clients and community with diligence and excellence.
If you read this, thank you!
And if you have questions you want answered, or anything you want written about, feel free to email me at jess@shipleyremodel.com