Most homeowners want to invest in a kitchen countertop that will last them a lifetime. Durability and longevity are two of the biggest signs of a high-quality product. A counter that can withstand heavy use is one that you want to have in your kitchen. But what can you do with it if you ever want to replace it? Can you recycle countertops?

It is wonderful that they can last a lifetime, but what if you do not want to have those same countertops for a lifetime? 

You can safely recycle your countertops in many different ways. Most countertops are made of a combination of natural and human-made stone materials, meaning it can easily be broken down and reused for another project. 

Our sustainable Neolith stone is 100% recyclable, and we offer eco-friendly large format countertops. Whenever you are looking to replace your countertops and refresh your kitchen’s look, you can have better peace of mind that there are ways to recycle countertops and reuse those big slabs of stone. 

Here’s how to recycle sintered stone countertops works!

Removing the Countertop

Your kitchen countertops are fully fastened onto your cabinets with several different materials and adhesives. Removing them is a lot easier said than done. But that does not mean it is impossible! 

It can be helpful to hire a professional countertop service to help you remove them. If it is easier for you to remove them on your own, pay attention to the following tips: 

• Disconnect your appliances and turn off your utilities (water, gas, and electricity) before attempting to remove your countertops. 
• Remove all drawers, doors, and pull-outs from your kitchen cabinets and put them aside for safekeeping. 
• Loosen the putty and caulk that adheres the countertop to the surface. Use a putty knife to remove this material. 
• Make sure you unscrew and unfasten all the mounting screws and other attachments that might be holding the countertop. 
• If you have tile surfaces and backsplashes, use a pry bar to remove them before you remove the rest of the countertop. 

You can remove the countertop all at once or use a pry bar to take it off in pieces. After it is removed, there are many things you can do with it – or many places to donate it so it can be properly recycled. 

Recycle Countertops or Reuse

You can donate your old countertop to an organization such as Habitat for Humanity, which focuses on building homes and selling reclaimed materials at an affordable price. People would be able to use that material to invest in home improvement projects, to build edging, or to even make backsplashes. 

Countertops can also give you a tax break. According to Houzz, many general contractors offer tax write-offs for donated materials. 

You can also use your old countertop material for a new DIY project. Larger pieces can be donated, and smaller or more crumbled pieces can be reused for an assortment of things. 

Or, simply transplant your old countertop! You might not want it in the kitchen anymore. But, perhaps it may prove the perfect fit for your master bathroom. There are plenty of opportunities to be creative with your recycled and salvaged pieces. 

Neolith Countertops are 100% Recyclable

When you install Neolith countertops, you are investing in a sustainable future. If you ever need to remove them, you can rest assured that they are completely recyclable and biodegradable. We will always reuse our Neolith products for refurbished materials or other projects. 

When you have recycled your countertop, be sure to let an industry professional know. There may be an opportunity for you to sell your countertop or refurbish it for a tax break!

Get Sustainable Countertops Today

At Neolith, we are passionate about sustainability. Our products are completely recyclable and are often reused as part of the manufacturing process. If you are looking to learn more about removing or replacing your old countertops, get in touch with your local Neolith professional today!