Getting rid of heavy, outdated countertops can feel like a massive chore, especially when you're dealing with quartz or granite. These materials are beautiful and durable, but once you're ready for an upgrade, figuring out how to dispose of a quartz or granite slab responsibly can be overwhelming. Fortunately, there are several ways to recycle, repurpose, or remove these old countertop materials—and we’re here to help make the process simple.
What to do with old granite or quartz kitchen countertops
If you're wondering what to do with old granite countertops or how to dispose of a quartz surface that’s no longer needed, you're not alone. These old countertops don't belong in your household waste. Here are several smart and sustainable solutions:
Reuse for home improvement projects
Quartz and granite countertops can be repurposed throughout your home. Consider cutting them down to size for smaller surfaces like bathroom vanities, fireplace hearths, or laundry room counters. Even leftover quartz countertop pieces can be used for shelving or tabletops.
Upcycle for garden or outdoor features
These heavy-duty materials are great for outdoor use. Use your old countertop material as stepping stones, a bench top for your garden, or even a weather-resistant surface for an outdoor kitchen. Recycled marble countertops and quartz pieces are both durable and stylish when used in landscaping.
Donate or sell
If your old countertops are in decent condition, consider donating them to a local reuse center or nonprofit like Habitat for Humanity. You can also look into online marketplaces. Who buys used granite countertops? DIYers and contractors often look for affordable reclaimed materials. You might be surprised by how easy it is to sell granite countertops that still have life left in them.
Recycle
Granite recycling and quartz disposal options are becoming more available as environmental awareness grows. Some companies specialize in grinding old granite into gravel or repurposing quartz particles for new surfaces. Search for local stone recycling centers and be sure to call ahead to confirm which materials they accept.
Disposal
If your countertop is damaged or beyond reuse, proper disposal is your next step. Due to their weight and size, old kitchen countertops are not ideal for curbside pickup. Always check with your local waste management provider before hauling them out. In most cases, large item pickup services won’t accept materials like quartz or granite.
Hire a professional removal service
The easiest way to get rid of old countertops? Let us handle it. At 1-800-GOT-JUNK?, we take all kinds of bulky items—including countertops and old appliances. We make junk disappear–all you have to do is point.
Check out our full list of what we take.
How to remove old countertops
Removing countertops can be a tricky DIY job, depending on the material. Quartz and granite are both dense and brittle, which means they require careful removal to avoid cracking or damaging nearby cabinetry.
Here’s a step-by-step guide:
1. Shut off the water and disconnect the plumbing if necessary.
2. Use a utility knife to score any caulk sealing the counter.
3. Unscrew or detach fasteners underneath the countertop.
4.Gently pry the countertop away from the base cabinets using a crowbar or wedge.
5. Always lift with a partner—quartz and granite are extremely heavy.
If you're not confident in your ability to safely remove these materials, it's best to hire a professional.
