Which B-6806 Size Do You Need?
ADA Standards specify required grab bar lengths by application. Use this guide to find the right size for your project.
| Application | Required Size | ADA Section | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Toilet — Rear Wall | 36" minimum | §604.5.2 | Mount 33"–36" AFF |
| Toilet — Side Wall | 42" minimum | §604.5.1 | 12" max from rear wall, 54" min from rear wall |
| Shower — Rear Wall | 24" or 36" | §608.3 | Depends on shower type |
| Shower — Side Wall | 18" or 24" | §608.3 | Depends on shower configuration |
| Supplemental / Custom | 12", 18", 30", 42", 48" | Varies | Custom layouts, extended reach |
All mounting heights are AFF (above finished floor). Consult your applicable building code — local codes may exceed ADA minimums.
Satin vs. Peened — Which Finish?
| Satin (B-6806) | Peened (B-6806.99) | |
|---|---|---|
| Surface | Smooth, brushed | Textured, dimpled |
| Best for | Dry restrooms, offices, healthcare corridors, hospitality | Showers, pool facilities, locker rooms, rehab centers, wet areas |
| Load rating / specs | 900 lb — identical | 900 lb — identical |
Both finishes use the same 18-gauge Type 304 stainless steel construction, concealed mounting system, and 900 lb load rating. Finish is purely a surface choice based on application.
Frequently Asked Questions — Bobrick B-6806 Grab Bars
Q: What size grab bar do I need for an ADA toilet stall?
ADA §604.5 requires two bars per accessible toilet stall: a 36" minimum rear-wall bar (§604.5.2, mounted 33"–36" AFF) and a 42" minimum side-wall bar (§604.5.1, positioned 12" max from the rear wall and extending 54" min from the rear wall). The B-6806x36 and B-6806x42 are the standard specifications for these positions.
Q: How many grab bars does an ADA toilet stall require?
A standard ADA-accessible toilet stall requires a minimum of two grab bars: one rear-wall bar (36" minimum) and one side-wall bar (42" minimum). Both must be mounted between 33"–36" above the finished floor. Additional bars may be specified for enhanced accessibility or by local code.
Q: What is the difference between the satin (B-6806) and peened (B-6806.99) finish?
The satin version has a smooth brushed surface — easy to clean and suitable for standard commercial restrooms. The peened version has a textured dimpled surface that improves grip when hands are wet or soapy — preferred for showers, pool facilities, and wet-area applications. Both versions are identical in diameter, gauge, load rating, and mounting system.
Q: What is the difference between 1-1/4" and 1-1/2" diameter grab bars?
The B-6806 series is 1-1/2" diameter — the heavy-duty commercial standard preferred for healthcare, high-traffic, and institutional facilities. The B-5806 series is 1-1/4" diameter, typically used in lower-traffic commercial or light institutional settings. Both diameters meet ADA §609.2 graspability requirements (allowable range is 1-1/4" to 2").
Q: Does the Bobrick B-6806 come with mounting hardware?
No — mounting hardware is not included because wall construction varies widely (concrete block, steel stud, wood framing, tile backer). We recommend #14 sheet metal screws or 1/4" wood screws appropriate for your specific backing material. ADA requires grab bars to be anchored into structural backing capable of supporting 250 lbs minimum — never into drywall alone.
Q: What is the load rating of the Bobrick B-6806?
The B-6806 is rated at 900 lbs (408 kg) of downward load when installed into proper structural backing — exceeding the ADA minimum structural stress requirement. This rating applies to all sizes and both finishes (satin and peened).
Q: Is the Bobrick B-6806 made in the USA?
Yes. Bobrick manufactures the B-6806 series domestically. The bars are constructed from 18-gauge Type 304 stainless steel and contain approximately 65% recycled content. Replacement flanges and mounting hardware are available separately for long-term serviceability.
Q: Does ADA require a peened or textured grab bar finish?
No — ADA Standards do not specify or require a textured finish on grab bars. The peened finish is a specification choice made for wet-area and healthcare applications where enhanced wet-hand grip is a priority. The smooth satin finish fully satisfies ADA requirements in all applications.