How much does grab bar installation cost?
How much does grab bar installation cost?
$100 – $350 average cost per bar (bar + installation)
Average grab bar installation cost
Grab bar installation costs $100 to $350 total per bar, depending on the location, grab bar style, and labor rates. Grab bars alone cost $20 to $150 each on average. Most people choose to install 2 to 4 grab bars in the bathroom near their toilet, tub, or shower for safety purposes.
| Factor | Average cost per bar |
|---|---|
| Materials | $20 – $150 |
| Labor | $80 – $200 |
| Total cost | $100 – $350 |
Cost to install bathroom grab bars
People with limited mobility often need multiple grab bars in their shower, tub, and elsewhere in the bathroom to help prevent falls. Installing more than one grab bar will cost more than installing one, but you can usually save money on labor fees by installing them all at once.
There are several different styles of grab bars used in bathrooms, including:
Standard straight grab bars
L-shaped grab bars used near toilets
Bars that pivot or flip up and down
Floor-to-ceiling grabs bars
Wall-to-floor grab bars
Grab bar price factors
The following factors influence the cost of grab bar installation:
Design: Decorative, colored, or floor-to-ceiling grab bars cost more than a standard, no-frills design.
Complexity: If the installation is in a hard-to-reach area or if you're installing the bar in porcelain or stone tiles that are more challenging to work with, your installer may charge additional fees.
Repairs: Any repairs done before or after the installation may cost extra. Drywall repair costs $100 to $400 per hole or crack, depending on the severity of the damage.
Wall studs: If your wall studs are not in an ideal location, the installer may have to use wall anchors or install a panel behind the drywall to make sure the grab bar stays in place while you use it.
Labor
The labor cost to install a grab bar ranges from about $80 to $200, depending on the professional you hire. A handyperson charges $50 to $80 per hour, while plumbers charge $75 to $150 per hour. Installation often takes less than an hour, but most contractors have a service call fee for small jobs.
The American with Disabilities Act (ADA) sets the standard for grab bars and related devices. An ADA contractor will have more specific knowledge about installing grab bars but might be harder to find.
Grab bar FAQs
What is a grab bar?
A grab bar is a safety device installed into the wall to provide extra support and prevent accidents. Installing grab bars in a shower or bathroom allows seniors or those with limited mobility the freedom to move on their own without worrying about falling. You can install them vertically, horizontally, or diagonally.
Where do I put grab bars in a shower?
You can install a grab bar anywhere in the shower as long as it's easily reachable and doesn't interfere with any plumbing behind the wall. Most grab bars are about three feet from the shower floor. Installers usually attach the grab bar directly to the studs inside your wall.
Who installs grab bars for seniors?
Most contractors like plumbers, handypersons, and general contractors can install grab bars. Just make sure they have experience using drywall anchors, avoiding plumbing, or drilling into tile if applicable.
How long does it take to install a grab bar?
Installing a grab bar typically takes 20 to 45 minutes per bar. The exact time depends on the material your wall is made of, where the studs are located, and whether there are any plumbing components to avoid.
Are suction grab bars safe?
Suction grab bars use suction cups to stick to the wall instead of drills and screws. This means they're easier to install and remove, but they're not as sturdy as traditional grab bars that you screw into place.
Getting estimates from grab bar installers
When searching for grab bar installers near you, follow these guidelines:
Get three or more free estimates to compare.
Read customers' reviews of their business on HomeGuide and Google.
Pick a licensed, bonded, insured contractor.
Get a written estimate or contract before they start.
Arrange a payment schedule instead of paying in full before the work is complete.
Questions to ask grab bar installers
When looking for contractors to install grab bars, ask the following questions:
How long have you been in business?
Do you have a business license and liability insurance?
What location and grab bar style would you recommend?
How do you handle any damage to the wall during the installation?
How long will it take to install the grab bar?
Does this come with a warranty or a guarantee?
Can I have a written estimate that lists all services?
Using our proprietary cost database, in-depth research, and collaboration with industry experts, we deliver accurate, up-to-date pricing and insights you can trust, every time.