Shower without worries of slips and falls
The last thing anyone wants is to slip and fall in the shower. If you have been concerned about your safety or a loved one’s due to their age and mobility, then installing grab bars is a great idea. Find out about the different types of shower grab bars so you can pinpoint the right one for your needs.
Wall-mounted shower grab bars are the best option for a secure and permanent solution, so it is no surprise that these are the most common. Since they are anchored to a wall, you can use them daily without worrying about their reliability.
Keep in mind that shower grab bars that are not installed on wall studs are less dependable. As a result, you might potentially put yourself at risk of accidents and falls if the grab bars fail.
Bathtub-mounted grab bars have clamps that fit onto the rim of your bathtub. These are easy to install and come in different sizes and shapes. You can get horizontal or vertical bars.
Folding grab bars are great for small spaces since you can fold them flush against the wall when not in use. These mount to the wall and have a U-shape. You see these often used for toilets, but they can also be used in showers.
Suction grab bars are only a temporary solution. These rely on suction cups that attach to the wall, so there is a chance of them failing, depending on the quality of the seal. Also, these grab bars are not going to support anyone’s full body weight. You might use these in a pinch if you are traveling or in recovery.
Free-standing shower grab bars, also called security poles, are floor-to-ceiling bars. They take little time to install and do not require any hardware. You can get free-standing bars with extra hand grips for easier use. While these bars are convenient, the lack of hardware means that they are not as trustworthy for long-term use compared to wall-mounted or folding grab bars.
Here are the different shower grab bar shapes and styles that you can choose from. The most important thing to consider is what will be most comfortable for the user. If you are stumped and do not know what would work best for you and your bathroom, you can hire accessible bathroom contractors.
Universal design aims to make bathrooms functional and safe for all in the home. Features include grab bars, a comfort height toilet, slip-resistant flooring, a shower seat, a walk-in tub, a curbless shower, and making the bathroom wheelchair accessible.
The most common shape is the straight handle. These are installed either horizontally or vertically. Horizontal bars are easiest for you to hold onto while standing or sitting, while vertical bars can help you stand up or sit down.
Angled bars provide the best of both horizontal and vertical bars. The top of the bar is angled down, while the bottom of the bar is either horizontal or slightly curved. These bars are easy to grab and are used for staying in place, as well as getting up and sitting down.
Wave shower grab bars are similar to angled bars, except the curves are a lot less defined. Some are horizontal with slight curves, while others are angled with slight curves. Some people prefer these for aesthetic reasons.
You can find textured shower safety bars in different shapes. These provide an extra slip-resistant grip that makes them easier to hold onto.
Flip-up or flip-down bars are easily pushed down when you need to use them. Otherwise, they flip up 90 degrees and sit flush against the wall. Similar to folding grab bars, these have the same U-shaped design.
Architectural grab bars have an extra bit of style and flair. Some have baskets to hold shampoo and conditioner, while others have wood accents and printed designs. These give you a chance to install a grab bar that fits the overall aesthetic of your bathroom.
Since there are so many shower grab bar options, it is helpful to keep these things in mind when shopping around.
Your shower grab bar placement is entirely up to you, but there are some useful guidelines to follow. Typically, you want to install one grab bar on the side wall of the tub or shower around 33 to 36 inches above the floor. If you have a built-in shower, it is helpful to install a vertical bar next to it to help you sit and stand.
Shower grab bar materials range in durability and price. The most durable option is stainless steel. It is popular for being hygienic and long-lasting. If you are looking for something at a more affordable price point, you might go with aluminum or plastic. Aluminum is a much better choice if you are expecting to use the grab bar for a long time, whereas plastic is OK for some people, as long as it is for light use only.
Grab bars come in standard lengths of 12 inches, 16 inches, 18 inches, 24 inches, 32 inches, and 36 inches. You can find other lengths if you need them. For most people, the 24-inch grab bar is a good fit, although you should keep your shower size in mind before making a decision.
Most grab bars are rated for 200 to 500 pounds. Make sure you choose a bar that can comfortably handle the user’s weight for their safety.
The installation process for grab bars will differ depending on which type you get. If you go with a wall-mounted bar, you will install it on the studs. If the studs are not in optimal spots, then you can install a solid lumber plank. This process requires you to open up the wall, so if you are not an experienced DIYer, it is best to hire a bathroom remodeler near you.
Other shower bars require simpler installation. Regardless of the shower bar type you are installing, make sure to double- and triple-check that it is firmly in place before letting someone use it in the shower. Follow all of the manufacturer’s directions. If you are unsure that it is strong enough to handle someone’s weight, do not use it.
Shower grab bars cost $15 to $350, depending on the type you get. Labor costs an additional $55 to $125 per hour for wall-mounted or folding grab bars. Here is what you can expect to pay for the grab bars:
Wall-mounted: $15–$100
Bathtub-mounted: $30–$100
Folding: $60–$350
Freestanding: $160–$220
