How to install a safety grab bar on tub surround?

My brother installed one for our mother and he did a really good job. I have no idea how he did it because I was not there but I might suggest you ask around such as neighbors with older adults in family or home and they can probably suggest a person who might help you. Word of mouth is a great reference in my opinion. Good luck!

You need a contractor. Here is how to hire one.

https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/articles/0242-hiring-contractor

If you are on Nextdoor.com, that is a great way to find local referrals.

Make sure it is screwed in and not merely suction cup mounted. My cousin is a home health nurse and you would be shocked at the number of accidents from improperly mounted grab bars. You may be able to get a contractor recommendation from your local home health care service or Angie's list.

No contractor needed. Just like mounting to regular walls.

https://homeguides.sfgate.com/attach-grab-bar-one-piece-tub-shower-enclosure-26342.html

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FHA9Qg9HARQ

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VnoZySxSmco

You have to be careful with this. If the tib surround is glued up against the wall, you typically can find the studs and screw right into those. If its one of the ones that stick out from the walk about an inch, it needs a wood substrate behind it to be able to attach it to. Otherwise it can just come loose. Also, I agree the suction cup ones are scary.

I and my coworker installed tons of grab bars in the nursing home I worked for. If we couldn't hit a stud we would use toggle bolts. Being a nursing home wood studs were not allowed by federal and state regulations. All studs were metal.

https://www.walmart.com/ip/1-4-20-X-6-Zinc-Plated-Round-Head-Combo-Toggle-Bolts-Pack-of-12/158926769?wmlspartner=wlpa&selectedSellerId=1210&adid=22222222227058170064&wmlspartner=wmtlabs&wl0=&wl1=g&wl2=c&wl3=162268823709&wl4=pla-268652055820&wl5=9021628&wl6=&wl7=&wl8=&wl9=pla&wl10=112353941&wl11=online&wl12=158926769&wl13=&veh=sem&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIx_f-tYT33QIVE9bACh3LIA6PEAQYASABEgI34vD_BwE

Thanks, William. Helpful and interesting.