January 3, 2025

Who Installs Shower Seats?

Several professionals can install shower seats, each with their own area of expertise. The best professional for your shower seat installation will depend on the specific project.

Which professionals can install shower seats?

• Licensed General Contractors: General contractors or bathroom remodeling specialists can handle complex installations, ensuring adherence to building codes and safety standards. These are often the best choice for complex installations or bathroom remodeling projects that include a shower seat.
• Plumbers: Licensed plumbers also have expertise in ensuring shower seats are properly installed. If the installation involves significant plumbing work, a licensed plumber may be the best choice.
• General Handymen: A general handyman typically offers shower seat installation as part of their broader handyman skillset. For simpler installations, a general handyman with experience in drilling and minor construction may be able to handle the project.
• Accessibility Specialists: If the shower seat is being installed for accessibility purposes, it’s crucial to work with a specialist who understands accessibility guidelines and can ensure the installation meets safety and compliance standards. These specialists have specific expertise in installing accessibility features like shower seats, ensuring they meet safety regulations and personal needs.

It’s important to always choose a qualified and insured professional for any home improvement project.

                 

When should I consider hiring a professional to install my shower seat?

You should strongly consider hiring a professional to install your shower seat in the following situations:

If you’re uncomfortable with drilling through tile, it’s best to leave it to professionals. Drilling tile requires specialized tools and techniques to avoid cracking it. If you’re not confident in your ability to do this safely, it’s best to leave it to a professional.

Accessibility-focused installations require careful planning and execution to ensure they meet safety and compliance standards. Professionals who specialize in accessibility modifications have the expertise to ensure proper installation and adherence to relevant regulations.

When significant plumbing work is involved, such as adjusting water lines or drains, it’s crucial to involve a licensed plumber. This ensures the work is done correctly and safely, minimizing the risk of leaks or other plumbing issues.

Finally, if you have any doubts or uncertainties about any aspect of the installation, it’s always best to consult with a professional. They can assess your specific situation, provide expert guidance, and ensure a safe and proper installation. By hiring a professional, you can have peace of mind knowing that the shower seat is installed correctly and minimizes the risk of any issues down the line.

Can I install shower seats myself as a do-it-yourself (DIY) project?

Yes, you can install some shower seats yourself as a DIY project, but it depends on the type of seat and your comfort level with home improvement tasks.

Freestanding seats are generally the easiest, simply resting on the shower floor without requiring any drilling or permanent attachment.

Wall-mounted seats, however, require more involvement. This includes locating studs behind the tile wall, carefully drilling through the tile using specialized tools to avoid cracking, and securely installing the seat using appropriate anchors designed for tile installations.

If you’re handy and the shower seat requires minimal installation (drilling into studs, using anchors), you might be able to tackle it yourself using basic tools and following the manufacturer’s instructions. All shower seats on GrabBars.com come with a mounting hardware kit, which includes all six 2-inch stainless steel screws needed for installation.

It’s important to note that several key factors must be considered when installing a shower seat yourself. Firstly, ensure the shower seat is installed securely and can safely support the intended weight. Secondly, proper waterproofing around the installation is crucial to prevent leaks and the growth of mold. Thirdly, consider accessibility needs when choosing the location and height of the shower seat. If you’re unsure about your DIY skills or the complexity of the installation, it’s always best to consult with a professional installer. They can assess your specific situation and provide expert guidance to ensure a safe and proper installation.

Take a look at all of our shower seats here: Shower Seats