Blocking: Your Future Self Will Thank You!

When planning a bathroom remodel, most homeowners focus on aesthetics—choosing tiles, fixtures, and colour schemes. However, behind-the-scenes structural details like blocking are just as important. If you’re unfamiliar with the term, blocking refers to strategically placed wood reinforcements inside your walls, designed to provide sturdy support for future installations like grab bars, towel racks, and shower doors. Here’s why you should ensure your contractor includes blocking in your bathroom remodel.

1. Future-Proofing Your Bathroom

You may not need grab bars now, but installing blocking ensures your bathroom is ready if you ever decide to add them later. This is especially important for aging-in-place planning, where accessibility upgrades may become necessary over time.

2. Stronger, More Secure Installations

Without blocking, fixtures like towel bars and shower doors are often anchored into drywall or tile, which may not provide enough strength over time. With blocking in place, these fixtures are attached to solid wood, reducing the risk of loosening, damage, or failure.

3. Avoiding Costly Retrofits

Adding blocking during a remodel is much easier and more cost-effective than installing it after the fact. Retrofitting blocking later can involve removing drywall or tile, leading to unnecessary expenses and mess.

4. Enhanced Safety

Bathrooms can be slippery, and having the option to install safety bars securely is crucial, especially in showers and near toilets. Even if you don’t need them now, having blocking in place gives you peace of mind for the future.

5. Seamless Design and Functionality

Blocking allows for cleaner, more integrated fixture installations. With the proper support behind the wall, fixtures can be mounted flush and securely without relying on visible mounting brackets or anchors that may disrupt the overall aesthetic.

Where Should Blocking Be Installed?

Your contractor should place blocking in key areas, including:

• Shower and bathtub walls (for future grab bars)
• Around the toilet (for grab bars or accessories)
• Behind towel bars and toilet paper holders (to prevent pulling out of the wall)
• Near vanities or medicine cabinets (for secure mounting)

Talk to Your Contractor About Blocking

Blocking is a small yet crucial part of any well-planned bathroom remodel. By requesting it in advance, you ensure a safer, stronger, and more adaptable bathroom for years to come. When discussing your renovation with your contractor, ask about their blocking practices and make sure it’s included in your project.

Ready to remodel your bathroom with quality and long-term functionality in mind? Contact LF Contracting today to get started on your dream space!