Side view of a wet shower safety handle

Common Mistakes To Avoid When Installing Grab Bars

Individuals with disabilities and mobility challenges benefit from grab bars in strategic areas of their bathroom space. Grab bars are important bathroom safety devices that prevent falls and bathroom-related injuries. 

If the person you care for would benefit from grab bars, your next step is to ensure they’re installed properly and safely. To do so, educating yourself on common mistakes and mishaps with grab bar installation is key.

To learn more about bathroom safety equipment, fall prevention, and other caregiving topics, check out if you have free access to Trualta.

5 Mistakes

Mistake #1: Choosing The Wrong Grab Bar

Choosing the correct type of grab bar is vital. Grab bars come in different heights, lengths, shapes, and sizes and serve different purposes. 

Here are some examples:  

  • Fold-up U-shaped grab bars are often a great addition near the toilet seat.  
  • A straight grab bar may be best installed at waist height in the shower. 
  • A vertical grab bar may be used for stability when someone enters or exits the shower.

Be sure to think ahead to determine which type of grab bar you need to order or purchase to best help your loved one. If you’re not sure, consider consulting an occupational therapist. 

Mistake #2: Choosing The Wrong Location 

Once you’re certain of the type of grab bar you need, you must plan its placement. To envision where to place it, use a pencil to mark off the area to see if it’s in the best spot to help your loved one. 

According to ADA guidelines, a grab bar should be installed between 33 and 36 inches from the ground to best serve the person using it. Have your care recipient stand or sit next to it (depending on where the grab bar is going) to ensure it is within arms’ reach and will be helpful to them when they’re using it. 

A close-up of an older adult's hand gripping a stainless steel grab bar mounted on a tiled wall. The grab bar is installed at an angle for support. The background includes a tiled floor and an outdoor view with greenery.

Mistake #3: Improper Anchoring

It’s important to take the necessary steps to ensure the grab bar is mounted to the wall safely. 

Here are some tips to remember when attempting to anchor the grab bar: 

  • Use a wall stud finder to locate studs in the wall and mount the bars onto them.
  • Anchors can be used for a firm mounting base.
  • If applicable, use heavy duty screws to avoid slippage of the bar off the wall. 
  • When in doubt, opt for a professional to help install the grab bar.

Mistake #4: Not Checking The Weight Limit

All grab bars have a weight capacity. Check the packaging to determine the maximum force the grab bar can withstand. 

If the grab bar is installed to help someone transfer from sitting to standing, it will need to withstand heavier weights than a grab bar used for balance in the shower. 

The risk of ignoring a weight limit could lead to the failure of the grab bar, the grab bar falling off the wall, or injury to your loved one.

Mistake #5: Forgetting To Test The Bar 

Always, always, always test the bar yourself before you allow your loved one to use it. Apply pressure in multiple directions on the bar to test its mounting strength and ensure it’s safely adhered to the wall. 

If you notice any movement or slippage when you test the bar, re-anchor it before letting your loved one use it. 

Conclusion

Properly installing grab bars is essential in improving accessibility and ensuring safe mobility for your loved one in the bathroom and around the home. By avoiding the frequent mistakes made during installation, you can be sure your grab bar is mounted safely and securely on the wall. Remember to choose the proper location, always check the weight limit, and test the bar before the care recipient uses it to avoid accidents or injuries in the bathroom.

To learn more about bathroom safety equipment, fall prevention, and other caregiving topics, check out if you have free access to Trualta.

References

  1. Accessibility Checker. (n.d.). ADA requirements for grab bars. https://www.accessibilitychecker.org/blog/ada-requirements-for-grab-bars/
  2. Sorenson Law. (2024, May 29). Faulty bath grab bars. https://sorensonlaw.net/2024/05/29/faulty-bath-grab-bars/#:~:text=or%20neglectful%20maintenance.-,Poor%20Installation,leading%20to%20falls%20and%20injuries.
  3. TX Senior Safety. (n.d.). Common hazards you can avoid with professional grab bar installation. https://txseniorsafety.com/home-safety/common-hazards-you-can-avoid-with-professional-grab-bar-installation/
  4. Vocal Media. (2024, March 9). How can I ensure my grab bar is securely installed? https://vocal.media/humans/how-can-i-ensure-my-grab-bar-is-securely-installed
  5. YouTube. (2024, February 20). How to install grab bars. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wED1l1Vilho
  6. YouTube. (2024, March 5). Tips for secure grab bar installation. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OZgc1fi7W4Q

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