GRAB BARS What Size Grab Bars Should I Use in My Bathroom? I am elderly and want to have a grab bar installed in the bathroom. What is the best size?Jake, if the grab bar is being installed next to the toilet or on the shower wall, it is best to install a bar that is 24”. It is important to consider how the bar will be used. If the bar is positioned horizontally, this will give you the best leverage as you get out of the bathtub or stand up from the toilet. The bar should be placed at 33 to 36 inches above the floor. An angled bar seems to work best for multiple people using the same bath area because of height different of the people. The angled bar could also be easier to install because the angle will allow you to easily screw the bar into one of the studs. The diameter or width of the gripping surface of a grab bar shall be 1-1/4” to 1-1/2”. The bending stress, shear stress and shear force induced of grab bars shall be 250 pounds. Grab bars cannot rotate within their fittings. Jake, there are guidelines to ADA requirements and illustrations available for grab bar fixtures. If your would like a set, please call YCCA. |