September 28, 2023

Can you Install Grab Bars on Tile?

Yes, you can install grab bars on tile. However, it is important to use the right tools and materials to avoid cracking the tile or damaging the wall. It can be very difficult to install grab bars on tile due to drilling through the tough surface material, so we’ve put together a couple of installation guides to help: 

• Grab Bar Installation (Tile Wall into Stud)
• Grab Bar Installation (Tile Wall without Stud)

     

Which tools are needed to install grab bar on a tile wall?

• Power drill: A drill is needed to create holes through the tile and wall for the grab bar fasteners.
• Masonry drill bit or diamond tip drill bit: These drill bits are designed to cut through hard surfaces like tile without cracking or breaking it. Take a  look at them here: 1/4″ Diamond Tip Drill Bit , 1/2″ Diamond Tip Drill Bit, and 2″ Diamond Tip Drill Bit
• Wall anchors: If the grab bar won’t screw directly into a stud behind the tile, you’ll need to use special wall anchors designed for tile and hollow walls. These anchors will expand behind the tile to create a secure hold for the grab bar screws.
• Screws: Make sure the screws you use are long enough to go through the tile, the wall anchor (if used), and securely penetrate the stud behind the wall.
• Level: Ensures the grab bar is mounted straight.
• Pencil: To mark the drilling locations on the tile wall.
• Tape measure: To measure the distance between mounting holes and ensure proper placement of the grab bar.
• Safety glasses: Protects your eyes from dust and debris while drilling.

Depending on your wall construction, you might also need:

• Stud finder: To locate studs behind the tile wall. This is important if you want the grab bar screws to be anchored directly into a stud for maximum support.
• Hammer: Needed to tap in plastic anchors if you’re installing the grab bar on drywall behind the tile and not into a stud.
• Screwdriver: To tighten the screws that secure the grab bar to the wall.

What are the safety precautions for installing grab bars on tile?

• Turn off the power and water supply: Before drilling into the tile wall, it’s crucial to turn off the power to the bathroom at the breaker box and shut off the water supply to the bathroom to avoid accidentally hitting electrical wires or plumbing pipes behind the tile.
• Use the right drill bit: As mentioned earlier, use a masonry bit or diamond tip drill bit specifically designed for tile. These bits will cut through the tile cleanly and minimize the risk of cracks or breakage.
• Locate studs (if possible): If possible, use a stud finder to locate the wall studs behind the tile. Mounting the grab bar screws directly into studs provides the strongest and most secure installation.
• Mark drilling locations carefully: Double-check your measurements and markings before drilling any holes in the tile. A misplaced hole can be very difficult to fix.
• Drill slowly and apply light pressure: Avoid using excessive force when drilling through the tile. Start with a slow drilling speed and gradually increase it as needed. Apply light pressure to prevent the bit from binding or causing the tile to crack.
• Use eye protection: Wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from dust and debris created while drilling.
• Use caution when working near edges: Be extra careful when drilling near the edges of the tile, as they are more prone to chipping or breaking.
• Consider professional help: If you’re uncomfortable drilling into tile or unsure about the process, consider hiring a professional contractor or handyman to ensure a safe and secure installation.

Following these safety precautions will help you minimize the risk of injury or damage to your bathroom while installing grab bars on tile.

Is there anything else to be aware of when installing grab bars on tile?

• Grab bars are only as strong as the strength and rigidity of the material to which they are mounted and the strength of the anchoring device they are secured to.
• When drilling into the tile wall, exercise extreme care to avoid any electrical wiring or plumbing that may be located behind the wall. Older homes may not always fall in line with current housing codes and requirements. Make sure to verify where internal wiring is located in the wall so that no wires will interfere with the installation. Damaged electrical wiring can cause electric shock and fire.
• Proper installation is extremely important. If in any doubt, stop and contact a qualified grab bar installation professional.

GrabBars.com has a huge network of over 500 independent professional grab bar installers all across the United States and we make it extremely easy for you to find a local installer – just fill out this Grab Bar Installation Request Form and within a few hours our installer will get in touch with you!

All grab bars on GrabBars.com are made of stainless steel and are able to be installed on tile walls. Take a look here: Grab Bars

If you have any additional questions, give us a call at 704-800-4629, live chat with us on GrabBars.com or email us at [email protected] and we’ll be happy to help you out.