Grab Bars 101

Small adjustments like installing grab bars can make a big difference for 3 reasons.

1. Prevent falls: 1 in 4 adults ages 65 and above fall every year. Falls are a leading cause of death and serious injury among this age group. Bathrooms are especially hazardous with wet floors. Grab bars prevent falls before they happen.

2. Move easier: Grab bars provide support for getting around the home with ease and confidence.

3. Simple, Affordable Solution: Grab bars are quick-to-install, affordable, and immediately usable. Minor modification; major impact.

No two living spaces or people are the same. Grab bar needs are unique and our job is to find the perfect grab bar setup for you. And we do so for a price that’s lower than our competition.

1. For General Support

• Straight Grab Bars:

  • Where to Use: Bathrooms, hallways, next to beds.

  • Purpose: Versatile support for steadying balance or pulling yourself up. Can be mounted horizontally, vertically, or diagonally.

• Angled Grab Bars:

  • Where to Use: Next to toilets or showers.

  • Purpose: Installed at a 45-degree angle, offering more ergonomic support for pulling up from a sitting position or transitioning between movements.

2. For Small Spaces or Flexible Use

• Flip-Up Grab Bars:

  • Where to Use: Small bathrooms or next to toilets where space is limited.

  • Purpose: Foldable bars that can be flipped up when not in use, ideal for compact areas that need flexibility but still require strong support.

3. For Wet Areas

• Textured or Non-Slip Grab Bars:

  • Where to Use: Showers, bathtubs, and other wet areas.

  • Purpose: Equipped with a textured or non-slip surface, these bars provide a secure grip, even when hands are wet or soapy.

• Corner Grab Bars:

  • Where to Use: Corners of showers or bathtubs.

  • Purpose: Designed for stability in tight, slippery spaces. Helps with balance when stepping in and out of the tub or moving in the shower.

4. For Maximum Stability

• Wall-to-Floor Grab Bars:

  • Where to Use: Next to toilets or in showers where maximum stability is needed.

  • Purpose: Installed from the floor to the wall, providing vertical and horizontal support for standing up, sitting down, or balancing.

5. For Aesthetic Integration

• Designer Grab Bars:

  • Where to Use: Anywhere in the home, especially in high-visibility areas like bathrooms.

  • Purpose: These bars combine functionality with style, designed to blend seamlessly with your home’s décor while providing reliable support.

6. For Temporary or Travel Needs

• Portable Suction Grab Bars:

  • Where to Use: Temporary locations or when traveling.

  • Purpose: Attaches via suction cups for short-term use. Not recommended for long-term or weight-bearing purposes, but useful in situations where permanent installation isn’t an option

1. Incorrect Mounting

• Risk: If grab bars are mounted into drywall or tile without proper reinforcement, they may not hold the weight needed, leading to dangerous accidents.

• Why You Need a Professional: A professional ensures that grab bars are securely anchored into wall studs or reinforced with appropriate backing materials, making them strong enough to bear weight.

2. Poor Placement

• Risk: Grab bars placed at the wrong height or angle can be difficult or ineffective to use, leading to instability or discomfort.

• Why You Need a Professional: Professionals understand the best placement based on the user’s mobility, height, and needs. They can recommend the most effective locations and configurations.

3. Damage to Walls or Waterproofing

• Risk: Drilling into walls, particularly in bathrooms with tile or glass, can damage the material or compromise waterproofing, leading to mold, leaks, or expensive repairs.

• Why You Need a Professional: A professional knows the right tools and methods to install grab bars without damaging walls or creating long-term water issues. They will also ensure that everything is sealed properly.