Where you install grab bars matters more than how many you install. A bar in the wrong place gives false confidence; a bar fixed into drywall instead of a stud is worse than no bar at all. Here are the five placements that actually carry weight.
Grab Bars in the bathroom are not just for seniors.
Contrary to what many believe, seniors are not the only people who can benefit from using grab bars in the bathroom. When it comes to falls in the shower or bath, children are just as apt to slip as are seniors.
Shower stalls and bathtubs look quite safe, but accidents can happen no matter who is using them. Studies have shown that there are over 230,000 non-fatal bathroom falls each year in people over 15 years of age. Most bathtubs require you to step over the side that is usually about 18 inches high. Most stall showers have a 4-inch to 5-inch-high lip that you must step over. For many people, this is not a problem. However, for those whose balance is not as good, such as children and older adults, this can be quite a problem. Luckily, there is a simple solution to this problem – grab bars.
No matter your age, having something to hold on to in the slippery and wet environment of a shower or bathtub makes good sense.
Already know where you’re installing? See our full grab bar placement guide for exact heights and stud-anchoring specs by shower type.
Guidelines for Choosing Grab Bars: What to Know About Install grab bars
Most grab bars are made of stainless steel to resist corrosion. They come in various sizes, but the most common bars are 18 inches long or 24 inches long and are usually 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Texture is added to some bars for additional safety.
- Choose a bar 18 inches long or longer for vertical placement at the edge of the tub.
- When mounting at an angle, be sure to locate the studs to fasten the bar to and measure accordingly. Angled bars are usually 24 inches long.
- Choose a bar 32 inches long or longer for a horizontal bar.
- Choose bars that are 1 1/2 inches in diameter.
- Steer clear of bars that leave more than a 1 1/2-inch space between the bar and the wall.
How and Where to Install Grab Bars
Where you install a grab bar affects which one you should buy. Bars anchored directly to wall studs can carry a higher weight rating than bars relying on anchors alone, and the wall material — tile, acrylic, or fiberglass — determines which mounting hardware and finish will hold up best over time.
Shower Stall Grab Bar Placement
Shower stalls typically need shorter bars than a tub/shower combination since there’s less flat wall space to work with, and angled or curved walls may call for a different mount profile. Bar length and mounting style are worth confirming before you buy.
Bathtub/Shower Combination Grab Bar Placement
Bathtub/shower combos often need a longer horizontal bar plus a separate vertical entry bar, since there’s more wall length to cover than in a stall shower — meaning a higher combined weight rating across two mounting points is worth checking before you buy.
The cost, time, and need for a “shower standing handle” in the bathroom are essential considerations for anyone looking to improve bathroom safety. These simple additions can have a significant impact on preventing accidents and promoting independence, making them well worth the investment.
Cost: The cost of installing a shower standing handle can vary depending on several factors. The primary factors influencing the cost include the type of grab bar you choose, the complexity of the installation, and whether you opt for professional installation or attempt a DIY approach.
Basic grab bars made of stainless steel, as mentioned earlier, are generally affordable, with prices ranging from $20 to $50 for a single bar. If you prefer bars with additional features like textured surfaces or designer finishes, the cost may increase. Professional installation typically incurs an additional fee, which can vary depending on your location and the number of bars you want to install. While there is an initial expense involved, it’s important to view grab bars as a long-term investment in safety and peace of mind.
Time: The time required to install a shower standing handle is relatively short compared to the lasting benefits they provide. If you’re handy and choose to install them yourself, it may take a few hours to properly locate and secure the bars to wall studs. However, if you’re not experienced in home improvement tasks or have complex bathroom structures, it’s advisable to hire a professional. Professional installation can often be completed in a matter of hours, ensuring that the bars are securely fastened and safe to use.
Considering the relatively short installation time and the potential for a lifetime of safety, the time investment is minimal compared to the peace of mind and reduced risk of accidents.
Need: The need for a shower standing handle in the bathroom cannot be overstated. Accidents in the bathroom, particularly in the shower or bathtub, can have serious consequences. While seniors may be more prone to falls due to reduced balance and mobility, people of all ages can benefit from grab bars.
Children, for example, can easily slip in the bathtub or shower, especially when playing or not paying attention. Having a grab bar within their reach can prevent accidents and provide stability.
Furthermore, individuals recovering from surgery, those with temporary mobility limitations, or anyone with concerns about bathroom safety can benefit from grab bars. They provide crucial support, enhance confidence, and reduce the risk of injury.
It is not possible to prevent every accident. However, by installing grab bars in your tub and/or shower, you will greatly reduce the chances that someone in your home will fall and be injured. If this sounds like something you need to do in your home, don’t hesitate to contact us at USA Bath and let us help you find the best method to increase the safety of your bathtub or shower.
Install grab bars: planning your project in Sacramento or Reno
Where you install grab bars matters more than how many you install. A bar in the wrong place gives false confidence; a bar screwed into drywall instead of a stud is worse than no bar at all.
Standards exist for a reason. The Tile Council of North America publishes the installation standards reputable contractors build to, and you can verify any California contractor’s licence through the CSLB. Both are worth knowing about before you sign anything.
When you are ready, our design consultants bring samples to you. Explore a full bathroom remodel in Sacramento and Reno, compare shower remodeling, or browse KOHLER walk-in baths. Every project is quoted with an exact, down-to-the-penny price, and financing is available.
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