The difference between a wet bar project that lasts and one that becomes a callback is almost always in the details that don't show up in a low bid.
These are the specs and design decisions our team insists on for every Houston home — the ones that quietly separate a real professional install from a cheap one.
1. Undermount sink with drain properly vented
Every sink needs a real vent. AAVs are a fallback, not a first choice.
2. Dedicated circuits for fridge and ice maker
Under-counter appliances trip shared circuits constantly. Give each its own 20A run.
3. Water line with a proper shutoff
Accessible shutoff at the wall for the ice maker and RO line. Fishing behind cabinetry later is miserable.
4. GFCI protection and adequate outlets
Wet bar = GFCI required. Include outlets for a blender, kettle, or bar tools.
5. Non-porous countertop and backsplash
Quartz counter, sealed grout or slab backsplash. Alcohol destroys marble and cheap laminates fast.
The bottom line
Any of these can be skipped to hit a lower price — and every one of them will show up as a problem within a few years. Ask any contractor bidding your wet bar project which of these are included, in writing. The honest ones welcome the question.
If you'd like to walk through what these look like on your specific home, our team is happy to do a no-pressure consultation.
