October 25, 2023

Do I Need Silicone For My Grab Bar?

Using a silicone sealant for your grab bar installation is generally recommended, but not always mandatory. The main reason you would use a silicone sealant when installing your grab bars is to protect the metal from water damage, rust and prolong the lifetime and functionality of your grab bars. 

When is silicone recommended for grab bars?

• Wet Areas: For grab bars installed in showers, bathtubs, or other wet areas, silicone is highly recommended. The silicone sealant creates a watertight seal around the screw holes and base plate, preventing water infiltration behind the grab bar. This helps prevent rust, mold growth, and potential damage to the wall and the grab bar itself.

• Long-Term Durability: Silicone adds an extra layer of protection and can extend the lifespan of your grab bar by preventing moisture-related issues.

When is silicone not necessary for grab bars?

• Dry Locations: If the grab bar is installed in a dry area of the bathroom, like next to the sink, silicone might not be essential. However, it can still offer some additional stability and prevent minor leaks.

• Specific Installation Materials: Some grab bars come with pre-installed gaskets or waterproofing features that might negate the need for additional silicone. Always refer to the manufacturer’s recommendations for your specific grab bar.

Overall, even if not strictly necessary in dry locations, using silicone is generally a good practice for grab bar installation. A silicone sealant is a relatively inexpensive way to enhance security, prevent leaks, and ensure the longevity of your grab bar.

How does a silicone sealant protect grab bars?

Silicone sealant protects grab bars in two important ways in bathrooms:

1. Waterproofing: Silicone sealant creates a watertight seal around the edges of the grab bar where it mounts to the wall, particularly around the screw holes and base plate. This is crucial in bathrooms because it prevents water from getting behind the grab bar and into the wall cavity. Here’s how water infiltration can damage the grab bar and the bathroom:

   • Rust: Metal grab bars can rust if exposed to moisture. Rust weakens the grab bar and makes it less safe to use.
   • Mold Growth: Moisture trapped behind the grab bar can create a breeding ground for mold and mildew growth, which can cause health problems and lead to unpleasant odors.
   • Wall Damage: Water seepage behind the grab bar can damage the wall material, potentially causing rot or other issues that may require expensive repairs.

2. Stability: Silicone sealant can also improve the stability of the grab bar by filling any small gaps between the mounting surface and the grab bar itself. This creates a tighter bond and reduces the risk of the bar becoming loose or wobbly over time, which is important for safety.

Overall, silicone sealant helps to extend the lifespan of grab bars and keeps them secure by preventing water damage and increasing stability.

How do I apply silicone around my grab bar?

1. Caulk Gun Loading: Cut the tip of the silicone sealant cartridge nozzle at a 45-degree angle with an opening slightly larger than the desired bead size. Load the cartridge into the caulking gun and expel a small amount of silicone to clear any air pockets.
2. Silicone Bead Application: Position the caulk gun tip where you want to start applying the silicone bead. This is typically around the back of the grab bar base plate, where it will meet the wall. Maintain a steady pressure on the trigger as you slowly move the caulking gun along the edge, creating a continuous and uniform bead of silicone. It is important to leave some of the bottom part unsealed so that if water gets behind the flange, it will be able to drain out of the bottom of the flange cover.
3. Filling Screw Holes (Optional): For additional waterproofing, some recommend applying a small amount of silicone inside each screw hole before attaching the grab bar to the wall.
4. Allow for Curing: Let the silicone sealant cure completely according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Curing times can vary depending on the brand and type of silicone used, but it typically takes 24 to 48 hours for full cure.

It is highly recommend to install your grab bar first and then seal the edges of the flange cover with the silicone sealant.  Clear silicone sealant won’t crack over time and is waterproof, which provides a reliable seal around the grab bar flange and flange cover.

By following these steps, you can effectively apply silicone sealant around your grab bar, ensuring a secure and waterproof installation that enhances its functionality and lifespan.

 

All grab bars on GrabBars.com are made from high-quality, rust-resistant stainless steel. Take a look at them here: Grab Bars

If you are in need of clear silicone sealant, take a look here here: Silicone Sealant 

If you have any questions about whether or not you need silicone or what type of grab bars you should purchase, live chat with us at GrabBars.com, email us at [email protected] or call us at 704-800-4629 and we’ll be happy to help you out!