DIY vs Professional Installation for HealthCraft Products 

Whether you are deciding to add a few HealthCraft grab bar accessories to your existing bathroom or planning to do a complete bathroom renovation, you must consider whether you will be doing it yourself (DIY) or using a professional. We will review how easy it can be to DIY as well as some of the advantages of using a bathroom remodeler or access remodeler that has the added experience of universal design or aging-in-place design.

DIY

If you are a handyman or handywoman, you should be able to install of any of our products successfully as a fall prevention measure at home. All HealthCraft products have multiple resources on our website that includes easy to understand installation instructions, videos, pictures, technical data sheets, and FAQ’s. Whether you are installing the SuperPole, shower seats, or grab bars, you can DIY.  However, before embarking on any DIY project to install bathroom safety or home safety products, there are several factors to consider:

Tools and Equipment:

  • Do you have all the tools and equipment to do the installation properly?
  • Do you have the appropriate drill and drill bits, screwdrivers, levels, stud finder, measuring tape, and whatever is required for the specific job.

Skills and Knowledge:

  • Assess your level of skill and knowledge related to the installation of safety products.
  • Consider whether you have the required technical expertise and understanding of construction principles to properly install safety products into a home.

Understanding Installation Requirements:

  • Thoroughly read and understand all installation instructions.
  • Each product may have specific installation requirements or anchoring methods to ensure that safety requirements and weight capacities are met.

Assessment of Installation Site:

  • Take accurate measurements and carefully plan the product placement to maximize effectiveness and convenience for the person who will be using it.
  • Assess the installation site to ensure structural suitability and compatibility with the safety products.
  • Consider factors such as wall construction, stud locations, plumbing or electrical considerations, and accessibility.

Preparation and Planning:

  • Proper preparation and planning are essential for any successful DIY installation.
  • Gather all necessary materials and tools, review the installation instructions, and plan the process step-by-step.

Patience and Attention to Detail:

  • DIY installation requires patience, attention to detail, and careful execution.
  • Ensure each component is installed correctly, securely, and according to the manufacturer’s instructions, and avoid rushing or compromising.

Know When to Consult the Experts:

By carefully considering the above factors and your skills as a handyman or handywoman, you can assess the likelihood of successfully installing HealthCraft’s safety products. However, if you are looking at a bathroom renovation that will involve many changes to maximize function and independence, then there are some significant advantages to consulting with the experts.

Consulting with an Occupational Therapist (OT) who can understand disease progression, traumatic injuries, your medical conditions, and your limitations, can provide recommendations for specific features or products that are the safest possible options for you. OT recommendations can also address features and designs that can accommodate changes into the future.

There are also contractors that specialize in accessible design and these aging-in-place renovations. These Access Remodelers aim to enhance the safety of people wanting to stay in their homes longer and to accommodate current or future mobility issues.

Access Remodelers

When looking at access remodelers, you want to look for indications that they offer the expertise to help you make the right choices to stay in your home safely and securely.  Certified aging-in-place specialists (CAPS) is a certification that indicates there is a level of expertise in these matters. Whether the changes are for yourself or for visitors to your home, they can recommend not only grab bars and curbless showers, but additional task lighting, exterior railings, and features that make your home more “visitable”. Having a bathroom renovation completed by an access remodeler has some very significant benefits.

Expert Installation

  • Proper Placement: Access remodelers have the expertise to determine the optimal placement of grab bars, ensuring they are installed at the correct height and locations to provide maximum support and accessibility.
  • Secure Mounting: Professional installers ensure that grab bars are securely mounted to the wall studs or use appropriate anchors, providing a solid and reliable support system.

Customization

  • Tailored Solutions: Access remodelers will customize the installation to meet the specific needs of the user, considering factors such as height, reach, and mobility.
  • Aesthetic Integration: They can choose grab bars that match the bathroom’s décor and design, ensuring that they blend seamlessly with the existing fixtures.

Safety and Compliance

  • Building Codes and Standards: Professionals ensure that the installation meets all relevant building codes and standards, guaranteeing safety and accessibility.
  • Quality Materials: Access remodelers use high-quality, durable materials that can withstand regular use and provide long-term safety.

Increased Confidence

  • Enhanced Support: Professionally placed and installed grab bars provide robust support, reducing the risk of falls and enhancing the user’s confidence and independence in the bathroom.
  • Peace of Mind: Knowing that grab bars are installed correctly and securely gives peace of mind to both the user and their caregivers or family members.

Comprehensive Accessibility Solutions

  • Holistic Approach: Access remodelers can provide a comprehensive assessment of the bathroom as well as other areas of the home, and recommend additional modifications to enhance overall accessibility, such as zero-threshold showers, raised toilet seats, and improved lighting.
  • Integrated Design: They can ensure that all accessibility features work together seamlessly, creating a cohesive and user-friendly environment.

Enhanced Property Value

  • Market Appeal: Homes with professional accessibility modifications, including designer grab bars, can be more attractive to potential buyers, particularly those looking for age-in-place solutions or accessible living spaces.
  • Investment: Properly installed accessibility features can be a valuable investment, enhancing the usability and safety of the home for all occupants and visitors.

 

Don’t compromise on safety. If you are a handyman or handywoman, and have the patience, knowledge, and tools to install home safety products, HealthCraft supports you with all the detailed instructions you need. On the other hand, access remodelers can also provide project consultation on a variety of products, structural changes, and customized solutions that integrate seamlessly into your home. This comprehensive approach can enhance the overall accessibility of the home, contributing to long-term safety and independence for homeowners and visitors alike.