Shower/bath "plastic" inserts – 1970s version

[varkpilot]

We have one!  Need to install safety bar[s].

Decades ago, I watched one being installed and remember seeing a ½ to 1" space between the back of the insert and the 2x4 studded wall. 

Is my aging memory worse than I thought?


If there is that space in inserts of that vintage, how does one attach safety bars through the insert to the 2x4s without risking cracking the "plastic?"

[goaliedad]

I would drill a hole large enough to insert a plastic bushing that the grab bar would set against but still be covered by the bar

[lou holtz]

  google grab bar mounting kit

Just used this system at my in-laws.   Works very well for solid mounting.  Only downside that I saw was that the cover plate is still slightly exposed, as the cover plate on the bar is not deep enough.

[Mking143]

^^^
This. Solid Mount
I've installed a number of these in my son's fiberglass showers.
Make sure you caulk well.

[Lynden]

WingIts makes two types of fasteners for mounting grab bars directly to the fiberglass surround between the studs.

http://www.homedepot.com/p/WingIts-Grab-...670710-_-N

http://www.homedepot.com/p/WingIts-Grab-.../202552917