Marianne Martinez
Quartz countertops are made with up to 94% quartz, with the remaining material being pigments and resin. While they are heat-resistant, they can be damaged by exposure to excess heat. The resin component of quartz countertops is not heat-resistant and can melt and discolour under high heat, causing scorch marks and permanent damage. Therefore, it is recommended to use trivets, hot pads, and coasters to protect the surface from heat damage. While a hot mug of coffee may not burn through the countertop, a searing hot pan or boiling pot of water could leave a burn mark.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Temperature limit | 150°F (60°C) |
| Damage | Discoloration, burn marks, resin burn |
| Repair | Can be repaired by professionals |
| Prevention | Use hot pads or trivets |
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What You'll Learn
Why you shouldn't put a hot pan on a quartz countertop
Placing a hot pan on a quartz countertop can cause permanent damage. Quartz countertops are made with up to 90% quartz, with the remaining material being pigments and resin. The resin in the quartz countertop can only withstand temperatures of approximately 150 degrees Fahrenheit (60 degrees Celsius) before it takes damage.
When a hot pan is placed on a quartz countertop, the resin can burn, leaving a permanent spot of discoloration, usually brown or yellow. This is a common occurrence, and professionals can usually repair these burns, although not always. Even moderately hot pans and pots can cause discoloration if left on the surface for long periods, so it is recommended to use a hot pad or trivet to protect your countertop.
Additionally, the low heat threshold of quartz countertops makes them more likely to burn or break when in contact with heat. Therefore, it is best to avoid placing hot pans directly on the countertop and instead use a potholder or trivet to protect your countertop from damage. By taking these precautions, you can ensure that your quartz countertop remains in good condition and avoid the inconvenience and expense of repairs.
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What to use instead
Quartz countertops are susceptible to damage from hot pans, so it is advisable to use an alternative material that can withstand high temperatures. Here are some suggestions for more heat-resistant materials to use instead of quartz:
Granite
Granite is a natural stone that is highly durable and offers a wide range of colours and patterns, adding a luxurious touch to kitchens and bathrooms. While it requires regular sealing, it is a popular alternative to quartz due to its natural beauty and lower silica content, reducing the risk to workers during installation.
Quartzite
Quartzite is another natural stone option that is more heat-proof than manufactured quartz. It is important to note that both granite and quartzite are natural stone slabs, while quartz is typically an engineered stone product.
Soapstone
Soapstone countertops are known for their durability and heat resistance, making them ideal for kitchen use. Soapstone has a smooth and velvety texture, adding elegance to any interior space. However, soapstone may scratch and darken over time, requiring periodic maintenance with oil to maintain consistent colouring.
Concrete
Concrete is a durable and stylish option for countertops. It is adaptable and provides a distinctive, natural aesthetic.
Recycled Glass
Recycled glass worktops offer a modern and hygienic alternative to quartz. They have a non-porous surface that is highly moisture and stain-resistant. However, recycled glass is more prone to scratching and chipping compared to quartz.
When choosing an alternative to quartz countertops, it is essential to consider factors such as maintenance requirements, durability, heat resistance, and aesthetics to find the best option for your specific needs.
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How to protect your quartz countertops
Although quartz countertops are heat resistant, they can be damaged if exposed to too much heat. Quartz countertops are made with up to 90% quartz, with the remaining material being pigments and resin. Since the resin can only withstand temperatures of approximately 150°F (65°C), placing very hot materials such as pans directly out of the oven will burn the countertop and cause permanent damage.
- Use heat protectors such as coasters, hot pads, and trivets to act as a barrier between hot items and the countertop. Keep these items near the stove to avoid accidentally placing hot items directly on the countertops.
- Avoid placing hot pans or pots directly on the quartz countertop, as they can cause scorch marks and discolouration.
- Be cautious with acidic substances such as coffee, soda, wine, and cooking oils. Wipe up spills before they dry to prevent staining.
- Avoid using the countertop as a sitting or standing platform, as it is not designed for this purpose.
- For quartz countertops in the bathroom, be careful with hot styling tools such as curling irons and straighteners, as they can also leave scorch marks.
By following these simple precautions, you can help protect your quartz countertops from heat damage and maintain their durability and appearance.
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What to do if you accidentally put a hot pan on quartz
Placing a hot pan on a quartz countertop can damage it. The most common result is a discoloured ring on the surface of the countertop. This happens because the resin in the quartz countertop is not as heat-resistant as natural stone and can burn, leaving a permanent spot.
If you accidentally put a hot pan on your quartz countertop, you should remove it as quickly as possible to prevent further damage. If there is a discoloured ring on the surface, you may be able to repair it by using a mild abrasive cleaner, such as CIF cream cleaner, or toothpaste. These can be worked into the area with small circles and patience. However, it is important to note that if the "stain" is actually a burn mark, then a mild abrasive may not work. In this case, you may need to seek professional help to repair the damage.
To prevent accidentally placing hot items on your quartz countertop, it is recommended to use trivets or heat-resistant mats. These can be made of various materials, such as wood blocks, bamboo rolls, silicone mats, or even hand towels. By using these protective items, you can create a safe space on your countertop to set down hot pans without causing damage.
Additionally, it is important to be cautious with other hot items that may come into contact with your quartz countertop, such as curling irons or straightening plates. Using a spoon rest or a stylish trivet-like mat can provide a safe place to put down these hot tools and prevent scorch marks.
Finally, it is worth mentioning that the quality of your quartz countertop can play a role in its heat resistance. Lower-quality quartz countertops may be more susceptible to damage from hot pans, so it is important to do your research before purchasing.
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Why are quartz countertops not heat-resistant?
Quartz countertops are made with up to 90% quartz, with the remaining material being pigments and resin. While quartz is a highly durable material, the resin component is not as heat-resistant as natural stone. The resin in quartz countertops can only withstand temperatures of up to approximately 150 degrees Fahrenheit (60 degrees Celsius). As a result, placing very hot objects such as pots and pans directly on the countertop can cause the resin to burn, leaving scorch marks and permanent discolouration.
Even moderately hot pans and pots can cause discolouration on quartz countertops if left on the surface for prolonged periods. This is because the resin in the quartz composite burns at a lower temperature than the surrounding quartz slab. The scorch marks are typically yellow or brown and indicate a resin burn, which may be repairable by professionals, although this is not always the case.
Quartz countertops are engineered stone products, and all such products come with warnings against placing hot pots and pans directly on the surface. This is because the heat can melt and damage the resin, causing discolouration, cracking, or even peeling. Regular heat application can also affect the sealant on natural stone countertops, causing similar issues.
To protect your quartz countertop from heat damage, it is recommended to use hot pads, trivets, or potholders when placing hot items on the surface. By taking these precautions, you can help prevent heat-related damage and maintain the durability and longevity of your quartz countertop.
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Frequently asked questions
No, it is not advisable to place anything over 60°C (150°F) directly on a quartz countertop. Doing so can cause resin burn, leaving scorch marks or stains, and even permanent damage.
You may see immediate scorch marks, usually brown or yellow. This does not mean that the countertop is completely ruined. Professionals can usually repair resin burns, although not always.
Always use a potholder, hot pad, or trivet when placing hot items on a quartz countertop. Keep these protective items near the stove to avoid accidentally placing hot items directly on the countertop.
Yes, natural stone countertops, such as granite, are more heat-resistant than quartz. However, even these can get discolored or cracked with sudden heat changes, so caution is still advised.
