So you have some leftover quartz countertop after finishing your kitchen or bathroom renovation. Now what? With a little creativity, that extra quartz can be put to good use in other areas of your home. Quartz is an extremely durable and versatile material that lends itself well to DIY projects. Read on for some clever ideas on how to repurpose extra quartz countertop.
Create a Custom Backsplash
One obvious option is to use the leftover quartz pieces to create a customized backsplash behind your sink or stove. Quartz makes an ideal backsplash material since it’s waterproof, stain resistant, and easy to clean. Measure the area you want to cover and cut the quartz pieces to size using a wet saw. You can do a full slab backsplash or get creative and do an accent wall with geometric quartz tile designs. Add some interest by mixing different colors and patterns. Lightly sand the edges and adhere the backsplash pieces to the wall using thinset. Finish with grout to get a seamless look. You’ll have a one-of-a-kind backsplash that matches your countertops perfectly.
Build a Bar Countertop
Turn that extra quartz into a bar countertop to give your home entertaining area an upgrade. Quartz is durable enough to stand up to heavy use – perfect for a home bar. Measure the existing countertop and have your extra slab cut down to an appropriate bar countertop size. You can install it permanently using brackets or make it portable by adhering it to a piece of plywood cut the same dimensions. Finish the edges so they are smooth. Add some bar stools and you’ve got a party ready bar set up in your basement, garage, or recreation room.
Construct a Mudroom Bench
A mudroom bench with quartz top makes for handy seating and storage space. Start with a basic bench frame and top it with a cut down quartz remnant. You can either adhere the quartz directly to the bench or install brackets underneath for removeable placement. Quartz is an ideal mudroom bench surface since it won’t stain from wet, muddy shoes. Add baskets or cabinets underneath for even more functional storage. It’s a great way to utilize a small quartz leftover.
Create a Tabletop
Those extra quartz pieces can easily be transformed into tabletops to give new life to existing table bases. Square and rectangular chunks make great tabletops. Have your remnant cut to the size you need for a perfect fit. Use an adhesive specifically meant for bonding quartz to adhere it to the table base. If you ever want to change it up, the quartz can be removed fairly easily. Try using quartz remnants for side tables, bedroom nightstands, vanities or desks. The design options are endless.
Build a Kitchen Island
Maximize leftover quartz by turning it into a kitchen island. Use larger remnants to create a substantial island top to extend and enhance your existing kitchen workspace. Adhere the quartz to a custom built island base with overhang for seating space. Add drawers, cabinets and open shelving for handy kitchen storage. The durable quartz surface can stand up to heavy daily use. Use a remnant that has similar speckling to your existing counters for a cohesive look.
Craft an Accent Wall
Why not get creative and use those quartz scraps to construct a feature or accent wall? Slice uniform sized strips of quartz to make modern geometric wall tile designs. Or, use random shaped chunks in different colors and patterns for an eclectic mosaic look. Adhere the quartz pieces directly to the wall or on mesh sheets. Fill in with grout. Add LED lighting for extra drama. It’s sure to be a stunning focal point.
Build Garden Planters
Bring a bit of your kitchen style outdoors by constructing quartz garden planters. Choose thick remnant pieces and cut into squares or rectangles. Drill drainage holes in the bottom and smooth any rough edges. Stack or arrange in different heights to create interesting levels. Add lush plants, flowers or herbs for an unexpected planter made from kitchen scraps. The quartz will withstand sun, rain and frost unlike real stone.
Make Jewelry and Keepsakes
For smaller quartz leftovers, transform them into jewelry or home decor keepsakes. Tumble pieces in a rock tumbler to smooth and polish. Glue quartz fragments to jewelry findings to make pendants, charms, earrings or rings. Arrange pieces in shadow boxes or small frames for quartz coasters, cheese boards, trivets or wall art. Add some LED lights and you have sparkling quartz night lights.
Create Outdoor Accents
Spruce up your patio, porch or garden with DIY outdoor accents made from leftover quartz. Cut quartz to size for drink coasters, chess boards, small side tables or plant stands. Use thicker full slab remnants as bench seats or side tables. Add quartz topped stools around an outdoor firepit. Use smaller irregular pieces to make mosaic stepping stones. Your outdoor living space will take on a high end custom look.
Quartz Tile Accent Walls
One trendy way to use up small remnants is by creating quartz tile accent walls. Slice quartz pieces into one inch strips or small tiles. Mix up the sizes, shapes, textures and colors for visual interest. Use mesh sheets to mount the quartz tile pieces before adhering them to the wall. Accent walls featuring quartz tile add pops of color, shine, and texture. Try behind a bed, vanity, or kitchen sink for dramatic impact.
Fashion Windowsills
Windowsills take abuse from sun, spills and weather. Quartz is perfect for fashioning durable, waterproof windowsills that stand up to wear and tear. Measure window openings and cut quartz pieces to size. Smooth the edges and adhere into place with adhesive and caulk. For a streamlined look, match the quartz to your existing countertops. Not only will your new sills resist staining, they’ll add value and style.
Construct a Wet Bar
Got outdoor quartz remnants? Use them to construct a waterproof wet bar for patio entertaining. Build a bar frame and adhere quartz pieces to the top surface. You can also frame it with trim or corbels for a built-in look. The durable, stain resistant quartz will stand up to spills and weather. Add barstools and use for serving food and drinks while hosting patio gatherings and BBQs.
Create Whimsical House Numbers
Add personality to your home’s curb appeal with custom address numbers made from leftover quartz. Use thin remnants and cut into desired numerals with a wet saw or have them custom fabricated. Adhere to outdoor wall or post. For extra charm, combine colors and textures that coordinate with home’s exterior. Durable quartz house numbers will last for years while lending character. Fill any etching with exterior paint for contrast.
DIY Cheese Board
Gather some small quartz remnants, smooth the edges and adhere them to a wood plank in decorative designs to create a one of a kind DIY cheeseboard. Mix up the colors and patterns for visual interest. Fill any cracks with food-safe resin to create a smooth surface. Quartz is perfect for serving cheeses, charcuterie and appetizers since it’s non-porous and antimicrobial. Your custom quartz cheeseboard is sure to be the talk of your next dinner party.
Entryway Table
Give your entryway or foyer a furniture quality upgrade with a quartz topped console table. Adhere a full quartz remnant or a cut down piece to a simple table base. If you get bored with it, the durable quartz can be removed and replaced. Use coordinating colors and patterns to match existing kitchen or bathroom quartz. The perfect combination of stylish and functional, your new quartz entry table is sure to impress guests.
Kitchen or Bath Backsplash
Extra pieces of quartz make the perfect economical backsplash alternative. Use smaller remnants behind sinks, stoves, or vanities. Mix up tile sizes, textures and colors for eclectic appeal. Maintain sense of cohesion by using scraps that coordinate with your existing kitchen or bathroom quartz countertops. Adhere tile pieces to a backsplash surface or sheets of mesh before attaching to wall. Eco-friendly and cost effective way to create a backsplash.
Office Desk
Build yourself a durable and eye catching home office workspace by topping an existing desk or table base with leftover quartz. Measure the surface area and cut a remnant piece to size. Use a neutral colored quartz to keep the space calm and focused. The nonporous material can stand up to daily use and is easy to keep clean. For a coordinated look, incorporate quartz remnants or tiles along the desk front or wall. Stylish and functional upgrade.
Entryway Tray
Contain cluttery items like keys, mail, and other accessories in a handy quartz entry tray. Measure the entry table or credenza surface and cut a remnant piece to fit or use a whole smaller leftover slab. The edges can be finished, but the raw industrial look is also in style. The neutral white tones keep it minimal but the quartz elevates the look beyond basic plastic or wooden trays. Added bonus – quartz is easy to clean and sanitize!
Garden Stepping Stones
One inventive way to upcycle leftover quartz is by making garden stepping stones or a garden path. Cut quartz pieces into squares, rectangles or circles. Create a winding path or whimsical mosaic design. Mix colors and sizes for visual interest. Smooth any sharp edges for safety underfoot. The quartz stones can be left unfinished or engraved. Quartz works better than real stone since it withstands weather and won’t crack. Durable and decorative enhancement for any garden.
Entryway Bench
Get double duty out of a quartz remnant by transforming it into a versatile entryway bench. Top a simple bench base with your extra quartz. Finish the piece in harmonizing tones to match adjacent cabinetry or flooring. Add closed storage or baskets underneath for keeping clutter out of sight. The quartz surface can withstand winter weather, muddy shoes and everything in between. Stylishly organize your entryway while making use of extra stone scraps.
Frequently Asked Questions About Using Leftover Quartz Countertops
What are some recommended ways to cut and shape quartz remnants?
It is best to cut quartz using specialized stone cutting tools like a wet saw. For smaller precision cuts, a diamond blade angle grinder is recommended. Always wear safety goggles and a mask when cutting quartz to avoid inhaling harmful silica dust. Smooth cut edges using wet sandpaper.
Can you make outdoor DIY projects with leftover quartz?
Absolutely! Quartz is extremely durable and weatherproof, making it an ideal material for outdoor projects like planters, benches, tables, stepping stones, etc. Its resistance to UV rays, frost and humidity allow it to stand up to the elements. Be sure edges are smoothed so they aren’t sharp.
How difficult is it to adhere quartz remnants to other surfaces?
Quartz can be adhered to surfaces like wood, metal, tile, cement, plaster, etc using the appropriate adhesive for each material. Most quartz adhesives are either epoxy or polyester based. Carefully follow all label directions for surface prep and application for best results.
Is it possible to cut quartz with basic power tools?
It is not recommended. Quartz is very dense and hard on drill and saw blades. Cutting will generate a ton of dust. For clean cuts without breaking the stone, specialized wet stone cutting tools are highly advised when working with quartz.
How thick does quartz need to be for different projects?
Quartz countertop slabs are typically 3/4″ to 1 1/4″ thick. Use at least 3/4″ thickness for horizontal surfaces like tabletops or desktops. 1/2″ can work for vertical applications like backsplashes. For tiles, 1/4″ to 1/2″ is common.
What types of paint or stains can be used on quartz?
Unsealed quartz can be colored using food-safe concrete stains. Adhere all pieces before applying stain. Once stained, seal the project with food-safe sealant. Do not try to paint already sealed quartz.
Is there anything quartz remnants should not be used for?
Avoid using quartz remnants for any application that will be under prolonged intense direct sunlight. The UV rays can potentially cause discoloration over time. Do not use damaged quartz pieces for food service or prep.
What can you use to fill in gaps between quartz pieces?
For small cracks use clear 2-part epoxy resin designed for countertops. For larger gaps, use unsanded quartz-colored grout. Make sure to seal grout once dry. Colored caulk is another option for small joints.
How do you polish or smooth cut edges of quartz?
Use 150 to 300 grit wet sandpaper to smooth freshly cut quartz edges. Rub gently back and forth along cut edges until smooth. Always sand with water to avoid breathing harmful silica dust. Smooth edges are safer and more aesthetically pleasing.
Conclusion
With some clever planning, that leftover quartz from your remodel can live to see another day in these practical and beautiful DIY projects. Whether you decide to create an eco-friendly backsplash, a durable patio wet bar, or customize a piece of furniture with a quartz top, the possibilities are endless. Not only will you prevent usable remnants from ending up in a landfill, you’ll add custom personality to your living space. Its durability and low maintenance make quartz the ideal material for giving new life to household items with your creative touch. So gather those extra pieces and get ready for a DIY adventure! What will you create?