DIY Grab Bar in Shower
- Determine the distance between wall studs near the area you want to place the grab bar. You must find secure anchors, such as 2x4 studs in the wall, to attach the grab bar to for stability, security and strength. Attaching a grab bar to any wall surface with anchor toggles may not provide the strength you need. The grab bar is put in place to save someone from a bad fall. If the grab bar pulls out of the wall with the full weight of a falling person, it is useless. Most studs are 16 inches apart (from center of stud to center of stud). With a stud finder, determine the location of studs.
- Most grab bars come in 12-, 18- or 24-inch lengths, none of which is suitable for the typical 16 inch distance between wall studs. In most cases, individuals choose the 18- or 24-inch bars, which can be tilted at a slight angle between studs for optimal placement. Some medical grab bars are designed at an angle as well. All medical-use grab bars should be ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) approved, and proper installation is required. This is the safest, most secure method of installing a grab bar. Toggle anchors may appear solid when placed in drywall, but will pull free if a 200-pound man grabs it to prevent a fall.
- Installation of a grab bar in a tile shower enclosure will require the use of a drill and tile or masonry bit, which will create a circular hole in the tile without shattering it. Use a new, sharp drill bit. Place a piece of masking tape around the intended drill hole to help prevent scratching of the tile, but in most cases the hole should be covered by the grab bar upon completion. Most grab bars will come with a set of installation instructions on the package, and will recommend the size of toggle anchor or screws required for proper placement depending on length, width and location of grab bar placement. In most cases, you can use toggle anchors or thick plastic anchors inserted into the drilled hole. Place one end of the grab bar over the hole, insert a screw and tighten, making sure that at least 1 inch of your screw will penetrate the wall stud; 2- to 2 1/2-inch screws are recommended for grab bar installation.
- Installation of a grab bar will depend on its intended use, size and shape. For example, according to the ADA, a vertical or angled grab bar should be placed no more than 9 inches from the outside edge of a tub or shower, with the bottom of the bar about 32 to 36 inches above floor level. After the installation, test out the grab bar. Hang, yank and tug on the bar you just installed. If there's even a little give, it's not anchored properly. If necessary, remove the bar, and use larger anchors or longer screws and try again.