When it comes to creating a safer home environment, grab bars are one of the most essential features, especially in bathrooms. They’re there to help steady you, reduce slip and fall risks, and give you extra support. But installing them isn’t always as simple as grabbing a drill and going to work. Here are a few common grab bar problems, along with some practical solutions to keep in mind.
Grab Bar Problem 1: Hollow Shower Surrounds
Showers are one of the most dangerous places in the home due to the high risk of slips and falls. It’s no surprise, considering it’s a wet, slippery environment. That’s why we recommend grab bars whenever possible. But sometimes, it’s just not feasible to attach a grab bar safely, especially when dealing with hollow shower surrounds.
So how do you know if your shower surround is hollow? There are two easy ways to tell. First, if the shower noticeably stands out from the wall at the top, it’s probably hollow. The second method is simple: give the wall a push. If the wall flexes when you apply pressure, that’s another sign it’s hollow.
The problem with hollow surrounds is that there’s typically nothing solid to anchor the grab bar to. This means any weight put on the bar could cause it to pull out, which is a serious safety hazard.
Our solution in these cases? If your budget allows, we’d recommend a new shower, and you can learn more about what that might cost here. At the very least, we usually recommend installing a vertical grab bar just outside the shower. This helps with balance when stepping in and out, reducing the risk of falls.
Grab Bar Problem 2: Ceramic Tile
Let’s clear up a common misconception: having ceramic tile doesn’t mean you can’t install a grab bar. However, if you don’t have experience drilling into ceramic, there’s a significant risk of cracking the tile.
The best solution is to hire someone experienced in attaching grab bars over ceramic surfaces. By doing so, you’ll dramatically increase the chances of keeping your tile intact and preventing costly damage.
Grab Bar Problem 3: Using for Weight Bearing
There’s a big misconception that grab bars are designed for weight bearing—people often assume they can use them to pull themselves up out of the tub or off the toilet. However, that’s not the case.
Grab bars are intended to provide stability and help maintain balance. Using them to bear your full weight could cause the bar to pull away from the wall, creating a dangerous situation. Make sure to use them properly, or you could end up doing more harm than good.
Grab Bar Problem 4: Smooth Finishes
When shopping for grab bars, it might be tempting to save a little money and go for the cheapest option. But here’s a word of caution: not all grab bars are created equal. They come in both smooth and textured finishes, and choosing the wrong one could lead to trouble.
Make sure the grab bars you purchase have a textured finish, also known as “peened.” A smooth grab bar, especially in wet environments like the shower, can be extremely slippery and won’t offer the grip you need. Spending a little more upfront for textured bars is a smart investment in your safety.
Wrap Up: Don't Take Chances With Safety
Installing grab bars is an excellent step toward making your home safer, but it’s important to do it right. Whether you’re dealing with hollow shower surrounds, ceramic tile, or just selecting the right finish, each grab bar problem impacts your safety. If you’re unsure, don’t hesitate to bring in a professional who knows the ins and outs of grab bar installation. Your peace of mind—and your safety—are worth it.
