Are you thinking about installing an assist or grab bar in your home but aren’t sure which one is right for your home? It’s a common question, especially if you’re thinking about safety and aesthetics. Whether you’re planning a bathroom renovation or simply enhancing the accessibility of your home, understanding the differences between the two can help you make the best choice.
In this article, we’ll discuss everything you need to know about assist bars and grab bars, what sets them apart, and why Promenaid’s grab bars are the best option on the market. Let’s get started!
What Are Grab Bars?

Grab bars are specifically designed with safety in mind, to provide sturdy support when and where you need it most. Typically found in bathrooms, bedrooms, and near staircases, grab bars provide a reliable handhold to prevent slips and falls. They’re made from sturdy materials like aluminum, and they’re built to support your full body weight, which makes them a staple in any high-risk area of the home.
One of the top benefits of grab bars is their compliance with ADA standards. At Promenaid, our grab bars are engineered to combine function with design by offering you the best of both worlds. With sleek finishes and easy installation options, our grab bars not only enhance safety, they also add a touch of style to your space.
The Pros and Cons of Grab Bars
Understanding grab bars goes a lot further than understanding how they work. Here’s a closer look at the pros and cons of grab bars:
Pros
- Strong Support: Grab bars are designed to hold substantial amounts of weight, which makes them a reliable choice for anyone needing extra support.
- ADA Compliance: Grab bars meet strict safety and accessibility standards. That way, you can rest assured that they’re a safe product to use.
- Custom Sizing: Standard grab bars come in fixed lengths, but Promenaid handrails are sold by the inch, ensuring a precise fit exactly where you need it and aligning with your studs for optimal support.
High-Risk Areas: Grab bars are absolutely essential for bathrooms and other slippery spaces because they help prevent dangerous falls.
Cons
- Industrial Aesthetic: Some grab bars can look utilitarian, which might not fit the aesthetic of every home. Fortunately, our grab bars come in a variety of colors and styles to match your aesthetic.
- Bulky Design: While functional, traditional grab bars can be more noticeable and less sleek than other options. Fortunately, we offer customizable grab bars in a range of sizes.
- Challenges with Standard Sizing: Many standard grab bars may not accommodate unique installation needs, such as specific stud placements or tight spaces. Promenaid’s made-to-measure options help solve this challenge.
What Are Assist Bars?
Assist bars, on the other hand, focus on balance and guidance rather than full-weight support. They are perfect for areas where you might need a little extra help, like stairways, hallways, or entryways, but they aren’t great for areas like the bathroom.
Assist bars are typically smaller than traditional grab bars and are often used more as a stabilizing aid rather than a safety feature. Their versatility makes them a popular choice in many areas around the home.
The Pros and Cons of Assist Bars
Assist bars offer several advantages, though they do come with some limitations. Here are the pros and cons of assist bars:
Pros
- Stylish and Discreet: Assist bars often have a more polished look, to blend effortlessly into your home’s interior design.
- Versatile Placement: Assist bars can be installed in many locations, including living areas, bedrooms, and more.
Cons
- Strength Issues: Unlike grab bars, assist bars are not designed to support full body weight, which can limit their use in high-risk areas.
- Safety Standards: Assist bars may not meet all safety standards, especially when used as a primary support option.
Assist Bar vs. Grab Bar

Both assist bars and grab bars aim to improve safety, but they do so in different ways. Grab bars are built for strength and support during emergencies, among other things, while assist bars are built specifically for balance and guidance. Grab bars are often heavier, thicker, and designed to meet strict safety codes, which makes them a better choice in high-risk areas like bathrooms. Assist bars, on the other hand, offer a lighter touch, with a focus more on aesthetics and everyday stability.
When it comes to choosing between the two, grab bars are generally the more reliable option, especially if safety is your top priority. Their ability to support significant weight and comply with ADA standards gives them a clear edge over assist bars.
Why You Should Choose Grab Bars from Promenaid

At Promenaid, we set ourselves apart with high-quality, versatile products designed to elevate both safety and style. Our grab bars offer tons of support and easy installation, with modular options that allow you to customize your grab bar to your specific needs.
Unlike other grab bar companies, when you partner with Promenaid, you don’t have to sacrifice aesthetics for functionality. Our grab bars are crafted to match your home’s décor and provide the dependable support you need.
Elevate Your Space with High-Quality Grab Bars from Promenaid

When it comes to safety, functionality, durability, and style, you can’t go wrong with grab bars from Promenaid. Whether you’re looking to enhance the safety of your bathroom or add a touch of support to your stairways, our grab bars are the perfect solution for you.
Don’t settle for less – upgrade your space with high-quality grab bars today and experience the perfect balance of safety and design.