How to Install a Grab Bar in a Ceramic Tile Shower?
If you have a tiled shower and are looking to improve your safety in the bathroom, grab bars may be just what you need. Whether you need them for yourself or for your elderly or disabled loved ones, they can make life in the bathroom safer and more enjoyable.
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How to Install a Grab Bar in Ceramic Tile Shower?
There are a few different ways to install grab bars in your shower, but the most common way is through studs behind the wall. This method ensures that the grab bars will not shift or move as you shower. It also gives you the most solid installation possible.
Ideally, a stud finder should be used to determine where the studs are located in the wall. However, if the wall is tiled, it may not be possible to use a stud finder. This is because most shower walls are covered with cement board and a stud finder cannot detect studs through this material.
In this case, you will need to mount the grab bar onto the wall using wall anchors in the cement board. The grab bar should come with these anchors and wall screws, but if they are not included in the package, you can purchase the heaviest short, plastic wall anchors available.
How to Pre-Drill Holes for Screws?
When mounting grab bars, it is essential to drill a clearance hole through the tile and then a pilot hole through the stud before drilling into the stud. Doing this helps to avoid cracking the tile and splitting the studs as well as stripping the screws.
How to Caulk the Back of a Grab Bar?
Once you have mounted the grab bar on the wall, it is important to apply a generous amount of silicone sealant to the back of the bar. The silicone sealant will help to keep the grab bar secure and prevent water from getting in underneath the bar.
How to Test the Grab Bar for Holding Power?
Once the silicone has dried, it is time to check the grab bar for holding power. To do this, yank on one end of the grab bar and make sure that it is tight against the wall. If it is not, you may need to apply some more caulk to the back of the grab bar.
How to Install a Grab Bar in a Bathtub/Shower Combo?
Most stall showers are set up with a vertical entrance grab bar that is on the side opposite the tub faucet, and a horizontal grab bar on the other side. The horizontal bar should be as long as possible and positioned about 30 inches from the bathtub floor.
How to Position a Grab Bar in Your Shower?
Depending on your needs, you can place the grab bar anywhere in your shower, including on the wall near the showerhead or in the corner of the shower. Regardless of where you place the grab bar, it is important to make sure that it is at a height that will be comfortable for you and your loved ones.