So, you’ve decided to install grab bars—great choice. Whether you’re helping an aging parent stay safe at home or just being proactive, this small step can make a big difference. But before a professional shows up with a drill, you might be wondering:What exactly needs to happen before installation day?
No stress. Prepping your bathroom is easy, and this guide walks you through it—step by step.
1. Decide Where Grab Bars Are Needed Most
Start by thinking practically. Where are the most vulnerable spots in the bathroom?
Ask yourself (or your parent):
Is getting in and out of the tub or shower tricky?
Do they need help lowering or rising from the toilet?
Are there moments of unsteadiness after stepping on wet floors?
The most common grab bar locations are:
Inside the shower
Just outside the tub/shower entrance
Next to the toilet
Along a bathroom wall for general balance support
Tip: Walk through the bathroom with your parent and mimic their movements. This helps pinpoint the safest and most useful placements.
2. Measure and Mark the Spots (or Let a Pro Do It)
Once you’ve chosen the right spots, it helps to take rough measurements or at least mark areas of concern with painter’s tape or sticky notes. Don’t worry about being perfect—your installer will confirm everything—but having a general idea is helpful.
Standard heights often recommended:
Shower wall: ~33 to 36 inches from the floor
Beside the toilet: At arm height when seated
If you’re working with a pro like Grab Bar Los Angeles, they’ll bring the expertise on positioning, ADA guidelines, and best practices—but it’s always good to be part of the conversation.
3. Clear the Area
Make sure the bathroom is easy to access before installation. Here’s what to do:
Remove towels, rugs, baskets, or furniture that might be in the way.
Take down any temporary suction bars or towel holders in the target area.
Give the wall a quick wipe down—clean, dry surfaces make the process easier.
Bonus: If you’re planning any upgrades (like repainting or re-tiling), try to schedule them before the grab bar goes in, not after.
4. Choose a Grab Bar That Fits Your Style
Here’s where function meets form. Modern grab bars come in a wide range of finishes and styles—so don’t settle for something that looks out of place.
Consider:
Chrome, brushed nickel, or matte black finishes
Straight vs. angled bars
Dual-purpose bars (e.g., towel rack + grab bar combo)
Pick one that blends in or matches existing fixtures. If you’re unsure, your installer can recommend options that suit both your needs and the bathroom aesthetic.
5. Talk to the Installer About Wall Types
One thing pros will want to know: what type of wall are they working with?
Bathrooms may have:
Tile over drywall
Fiberglass showers
Plaster
Or even older materials like cement board
Knowing your wall type helps determine what kind of anchors or mounting hardware is needed. Don’t worry if you’re not 100% sure—your installer can usually tell at a glance or with a quick tap.
If studs are accessible behind the wall, that’s ideal. But if not, professionals have ways to install bars securely using specialized anchors.
6. Get Ready for a Quick Install (Seriously)
Most grab bar installations take less than an hour per bar. A qualified installer will arrive with the tools, confirm placement with you, drill into the wall (carefully!), and secure the bar so it can hold serious weight—often over 250 lbs.
No major mess, no big construction zone. Just a few drill sounds and peace of mind once it’s done.
Final Thoughts
Preparing your bathroom for grab bar installation doesn’t take much—just a little planning, a quick declutter, and an open conversation about needs. It’s one of the easiest ways to increase bathroom safety, especially if you're helping a parent age comfortably at home.
And if you want it done right, without the guesswork, reach out to the team at Grab Bar Los Angeles. We’ll walk you through every step and make sure your grab bars are safe, secure, and stylish.
Helpful Resources:
AARP – HomeFit Guide
ADA – Grab Bar Guidelines
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