Q.Hello, We have an existing fireplace that is made of polished and flamed granite. We would like to change it up and install a wood mantel as we are taking the room in a different direction from an overall design standpoint. As a result, we will be removing the poslish granite an replacing them with a more traditional wood mantel. Currently the flamed granite acts as the first layer of material around the fireplace opening. However, we now will need 10" of clearance and the existing exposed flamed granite only has 8". So therefore, once we remove the polished granite, we will need to use 2 more verticle inches of the flamed to meet code. This flamed granite will be covered wih epoxy (if it even survives the removal of the polished). Is there a good way to remove any epoxy left on the flamed granite. Your advise is most appreciated. Thanks Matt

A.Matt-In this case it may be best to use a right angle grinder with a 4 inch pad driver and silicon carbide sanding pads from 80 to 120 grit.It may be hard to sand it out of the low areas but you should be able to get most of it.

Use dust protection.

Stu Rosen