The quickest way to locate a remnant of granite is by contacting fabricators
in your area. Remnants are the results of cutting larger slabs and most fabricators
are
happy
to let you have these at remarkable discounts, depending mainly on dimensions.
Many of the lowest prices for granite being advertised in the newpaper and
online, $35 to $45 per foot and
lower, are for remnants and this fact is only occasionally mentioned in these
ads.
Slabs, on the other hand, are full sections that have been cut and shipped
from quary mining operations. Larger distributors have these displayed
in their warehouse, ready for fabricating. The slabs start
at around $50 per foot but this does not include nosing (edging) and this
adds a lot to the price, along with installation services and
this as well applies to remnants.
The slabs, granted their dimensions, present greater value/higher pricing
since they are able to be seperated in multiple counter
sections. While remnants are more suitable for scaled down areas, and/or
where one
piece
does not
need to match another cut from the same slab.
Get access to a major fabricator in your area, walk the yard with them, and
you'll find that small to mid-size remnants are normally tossed in a pile.
While larger, salvagable dimensions are for sale at phenomenal cost reductions
. In fact, most fabricators when questioned haven't an idea is to what to
do with many of
the remnants since there isn't that much of a call for them, they are almost
a nuissance. Typically the fabricator pays to have the smallest pieces removed
and disposed. If you are considering buying remants, however,
this assumes your dimensions are available.
Realistically, remnants are suited for projects and furniture pieces like
modest size tables, vanities, and end tables.
With the more popular species you can expect to get larger cuts.