November 14, 2023

How Long Do Grab Bars Last?

With proper care and installation, grab bars can last for many years. The lifespan of a grab bar depends on several factors:

• The material they are made of: Stainless steel is generally the most durable and long-lasting option.
• Their installation method: Proper installation ensures the grab bar is securely mounted and won’t become loose or damaged.
• Their upkeep and maintenance: Regular cleaning and inspection can help prevent damage and prolong the grab bar’s life.
• Their usage: High-traffic areas, like commercial bathrooms, may experience more wear and tear.

All grab bars on GrabBars.com are made of stainless steel. Take a look at the wide variety of styles here: Grab Bars

 

How can I extend the lifespan of my bathroom grab bars?

1. Choose grab bars that are made from a durable material, such as stainless steel: This is the strongest, easiest to clean and most rust-resistant grab bar material choice.
2. Clean grab bars regularly: Regularly clean your bathroom grab bars using a damp cloth. Avoid using any harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners so you don’t damage the metal surface.
3. Inspect grab bars regularly for damage: Make sure to check for signs of damage, such as cracks, loose screws, etc. to ensure your grab bars are of utmost safety. 
4. Ensure proper installation: We highly recommend having a professional grab bar installer mount the grab bars in your bathroom and double check that you are using the correct anchoring devices depending on the wall’s surface. If you are installing grab bars in your shower or bathtub, you will need to use a silicone sealant so that moisture doesn’t get behind the grab bar flange covers and begin to rust and deteriorate the grab bar over time. 

Overall, if your grab bars are properly installed and you clean them and keep them well-maintained regularly, you shouldn’t have any trouble getting your grab bars to last for many years.

It’s important to keep in mind that grab bars in commercial / public bathrooms will likely need replacement sooner than those in residential bathrooms due to higher traffic and usage, which leads to increased wear & tear of the grab bars.

What factors can cause grab bars to deteriorate?

Several factors can accelerate the deterioration of grab bars:

Environmental Factors:

• Moisture: Constant exposure to water, such as in bathrooms, can lead to corrosion, especially in lower-quality metals.
• Chemicals: Harsh cleaning products can damage the finish of the grab bar over time.
• Temperature fluctuations: Extreme temperature changes can cause metal fatigue and weaken the grab bar.

Usage Factors:

• Excessive weight: Consistently supporting more weight than the grab bar is rated for can cause it to bend or break.
• Rough handling: Impacts or strong forces applied to the grab bar can damage it.

Material and Installation Factors:

• Poor quality materials: Grab bars made from inferior metals are more susceptible to corrosion and damage.
• Incorrect installation: Improperly installed grab bars may become loose, leading to instability and potential damage.

Maintenance Factors:

• Neglect: Failing to clean and inspect the grab bar regularly can allow damage to go unnoticed and worsen.

By addressing these factors, you can significantly extend the life of your grab bars and maintain their safety and reliability.

If you are in need of high-quality stainless steel grab bars for a residential or commercial bathroom, take a look here: Grab Bars

Depending on the type of wall you are installing your grab bars onto, you may be in need of specialty anchoring devices to ensure proper installation. Take a look at anchoring devices here: Grab Bar Anchoring Devices

If you are in need of a local professional installer, just fill out this Grab Bar Installation Request Form and within a few hours our installer will get in touch with you!

If you have any additional questions about which grab bars or anchoring devices are right for your bathroom, email us at [email protected], live chat with us on GrabBars.com, or give us a call at 704-800-4629 and we’ll be happy to help.