What Can I Do With an Old Granite Countertop? The Ultimate Guide
If you‘re doing a kitchen or bathroom remodel, that old granite countertop may seem ready for the trash. But with a bit of creativity and know-how, you can give it an exciting new life!
As a home improvement expert who‘s salvaged many granite counters, let me walk you through all your options to reuse, repurpose or recycle. This in-depth guide will provide tips, how-tos, and things to consider. Read on to learn how to keep that quality granite from going to waste.
Should You Salvage Your Existing Countertop?
Before you demo and ditch your current granite, consider whether it can be salvaged in place with some restoration work. Granite is extremely durable, so refinishing is usually possible. Here are your options:
Refinishing
Is your granite just dull, scratched or etched? Professional refinishing can make it look brand new! This involves honing, polishing and resealing the surface. Costs around $600-1000 depending on size. Easiest and most affordable option.
Crack Repair
Small chips and cracks in granite can often be repaired with a clear epoxy designed for natural stone. The epoxy is tinted and injected into the crack, bonding it together once cured. Costs around $100-300 depending on length of crack.
Seam Repair
If gaps or rough edges have formed along the seams between granite slabs, a pro can disassemble, smooth out the edges, and re-seal for a flawless look. Expect costs around $200-400.
Spot Resurfacing
Minor damaged spots like burns or stains can be sanded down and re-polished by a stone pro. Much cheaper than replacing the whole slab. Cost is about $100-300 depending on size.
Slab Replacement
For more significant damage like cracks across multiple slabs, sections of the countertop can be removed and replaced with new granite pieces cut to fit. A pricier option at $400-1000 per linear foot but still less than full replacement.
Repurposing Your Countertop In Place
If the size and layout of your existing granite countertop works for the new space, consider repurposing it in place for a quick and easy solution.
For example, a kitchen island countertop could become a wet bar counter in the basement. Or that old bathroom vanity top could get new life as a utility sink in the garage.
Other ideas:
- Outdoor kitchen counters
- Laundry room tops
- Office desks
- Craft room work surfaces
- Kitchen backsplashes
This avoids demolition and you get to keep the beautiful granite you know and love!
Using Your Granite Pieces for New Projects
With the right tools and skills, your old granite countertop can be transformed into something totally new. Get creative with these repurposing projects!
Cut Into Slabs
Large granite pieces can make stunning:
- Fireplace mantels and surrounds
- Backsplashes
- Shelves
- Tables
- Desks
- Headstones
According to Home Renovation Magazine, bath granite remnants at least 25 inches long work perfectly as fireplace hearth slabs.
Cut Into Smaller Pieces
Use smaller leftover bits for:
- Tile edging and inlays
- Mosaic backsplashes
- Floor medallions
- Stepping stones
- Trivets and cutting boards
- Cheese boards
- Pet feeding dishes
One of my favorite repurposes is using colorful granite scraps to create custom mosaic mirror frames – so chic!
How To Remove and Disassemble Your Granite
Careful removal is key to keeping your granite pieces intact for repurposing. Follow these best practices:
Photograph In Place
Take photos of the finished look of your counter from all angles before taking it apart. This gives you a handy reference for potential reconstruction.
Detach From Cabinets
Use a pry bar and hammer to gently detach the countertop from the underlying cabinetry. Take care not to crack the granite.
Label All Pieces
Use painter‘s tape to mark and number each section of countertop and any related backsplashes. This allows you to reconstruct the layout later if desired.
Remove Backsplash Separately
Whenever possible, use a wet saw to detach the entire backsplash in one intact piece without breaking it. Easier to reinstall as-is.
Transport Safely
Once detached, move granite pieces carefully onto sturdy plywood sheets padded with foam or blankets. This prevents cracking and slipping during transport.
Finding New Homes For Your Granite
If you don‘t plan to use your old granite, list it online for free on sites like Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace. DIYers, flippers, contractors and stone yards often scope out granite remnants to purchase.
You can also donate larger pieces to Habitat for Humanity. They may incorporate it into homes for families in need.
I once got a great deal on a gorgeous set of book-matched 12 foot kitchen island slabs. The homeowner was happy her beloved granite was going to a new home rather than the dumpster!
Safe Disposal As a Last Resort
If your granite countertop is truly damaged beyond salvage or reuse, please dispose of it properly:
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Remove all attached hardware, brackets, sinks etc first.
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Carefully break the granite down into smaller, manageable pieces using wet saws or chisels. Wear protective gear.
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Check your local regulations on granite disposal. Some areas require special handling.
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Recycle the granite if at all possible to avoid sending massive solid slabs to the landfill.
According to the Marble Institute of America, nearly 75% of old granite can be recycled if properly handled.
Tips for DIY Granite Countertop Projects
Want to repurpose your granite pieces into cool new creations yourself? Here are my top tips:
Use the Right Tools
Take Safety Precautions
Start Small
Practice techniques on leftover scraps before attempting bigger projects. Granite work takes skill. Consider hiring a pro for intricate jobs.
Have Fun!
Get creative with your old granite. Upcycle it into cool, functional art for your home and garden. Give it new life!
I hope this guide has sparked some ideas for your old granite countertop. With some TLC it can be restored, repurposed or recycled instead of discarded. Granite‘s natural beauty and durability lends itself to so many possibilities.
Have any other great ideas or tips for reusing granite? Let me know in the comments – I‘d love to hear how you gave your granite a second act!