Quartz countertops are an increasingly popular choice for kitchen and bathroom remodeling projects due to their durability, low maintenance, and stylish appearance. However, some homeowners wonder if quartz can withstand exposing it to hot items like pots, pans, and bakeware fresh out of the oven. Here is a detailed look at whether quartz countertops can handle the heat.
What is Quartz?
Quartz countertops, sometimes called engineered stone, are made from ground quartz crystals combined with resins and pigments. The quartz content typically ranges from 90-94%. The rest consists of polymer resins that bind the material together and provide additional strength and coloration.
The resins make quartz non-porous, so it does not require sealing like natural stone. The material is also harder than granite due to the durability of quartz crystals. These properties make quartz an ideal low-maintenance surface for busy kitchens.
Heat Tolerance of Quartz Countertops
The key question is: can quartz withstand hot pans or being used as a trivet for hot dishes? The short answer is yes. Quartz has a high heat tolerance that makes it suitable for exposure to hot cookware.
According to manufacturers, quartz countertops can withstand **temperatures up to 212°F (100°C) ** before experiencing any damage. Keeping pots and pans below this threshold is realistic, even when cooking at high temperatures.
For example, a pan fresh from a 450°F oven may be around 200°F on the bottom surface. Pans straight from a hot stovetop burner can be 150-200°F. These temperatures are within the safe range for quartz.
Quartz also cools down rapidly when hot pans are removed. So the material is not exposed to high heat for long periods. This gives quartz an advantage over materials like solid surface that can scorch or show heat marks.
Proper Use of Quartz Around High Heat
While quartz can withstand brief contact with hot pots and pans, it is not indestructible. Following some basic precautions will help ensure long-lasting beauty:
- Use trivets or hot pads – Placing a trivet or hot pad under pans, baking sheets, casserole dishes, etc. will protect the surface. Trivets also allow air circulation to prevent cracking.
- Avoid prolonged heat exposure – Leaving a hot pan sitting for an extended time can cause damage. The area underneath retains heat and gets hotter over time. Remove pans after cooking.
- Use protective mats for appliances – Small appliances like instant pots, air fryers, and crock pots can get hot. Put down a silicone mat to dissipate heat.
- Don’t put baking dishes directly on quartz – Take dishes straight from the oven and place them on a cooling rack or trivet, not directly on the counter.
- No hot pads or trivets with rubber feet – The rubber can melt and leave permanent marks on quartz. Use trivets with felt pads instead.
Following these precautions will prevent any thermal shock or burning to your quartz surface. Brief contact with routine cooking and baking should not be an issue.
Can Quartz Be Used As a Trivet?
Home chefs often look for heat-resistant surfaces in their kitchens to use as trivets. The question arises — can you use a quartz countertop as a makeshift trivet?
The answer is no — quartz manufacturers do not recommend placing hot pots, dishes, or bakeware directly on your countertop. Here’s why:
- The underside of dishes and pots retains high heat. Direct contact in one spot for a prolonged time can potentially burn quartz.
- Uneven heating and cooling called “thermal shock” can occur, putting stress on your countertop.
- Having a consistent hot spot on your counter risks damaging the structural integrity of quartz over time.
For these reasons, it’s best to use traditional trivets and hot pads when removing items from the oven. Don’t rely solely on your quartz counters to act as a heat-resistant surface. Protect them from sustained direct contact with high temperatures.
Signs of Heat Damage on Quartz
Quartz is highly resilient, but excessive heat exposure can cause damage in some cases. Here are some signs to watch out for:
- Discoloration – Scorched areas or white spots from mineral deposits leaching out
- Cracks – Cracks around the burn site due to thermal shock
- Bubbling – The resin binders bubbling or blistering from the heat
- Dull spots – Loss of glossy sheen where overheated
- Soft spots – A spongy feeling rather than firm and smooth
Thankfully, these types of damages are avoidable by taking proper precautions. Be sure to use hot pads and trivets to protect the surface.
Can Damaged Quartz Countertops Be Repaired?
If heat damage does occur, minor fixes may be possible:
- Polishing – Refinishing can reduce discoloration and dull areas in some cases.
- Spot repair – Filling small chips and cracks with color-matched epoxy.
- Sealing – Resealing bubbles or soft spots with a penetrating sealant.
However, extensive damage will likely require a full countertop replacement. Given quartz’s high heat tolerance, damage is avoidable with proper use. Always use trivets and hot pads when removing hot items from the oven or stove. Take caution around heat-generating appliances as well. With simple precautions, your quartz countertops can stay pristine and damage-free.
Frequently Asked Questions About Quartz Countertops and Heat
Can I put a hot pan on quartz?
Yes, briefly. Quartz can withstand temps up to 212°F. Remove hot pans after cooking to prevent prolonged exposure. Always use a trivet for hot baking dishes or casserole pans.
What happens if quartz gets too hot?
Excessive heat can discolor, crack, bubble, or create dull spots on quartz. Thermal shock from uneven heating is problematic. Always use hot pads and trivets as a precaution.
Can quartz counters be used as a trivet?
No. Quartz manufacturers advise against using the counter as a makeshift trivet. Direct contact with sustained high heat can damage the material over time. Always set hot cookware on traditional trivets/hot pads instead.
Does quartz burn easily?
No. Due to its high heat tolerance, quartz does not burn easily. Brief contact under 212°F will not harm the material. However, consistent exposure in one spot for an extended time can cause damage.
Can I put a griddle on my quartz countertop?
No, refrain from putting griddles, electric skillets, or other high-heat appliances directly on quartz. Use them on the stove or place a silicone mat underneath for protection.
Conclusion
Quartz offers superior resilience against brief contact with hot pans, dishes, and bakeware up to 212°F. However, prolonged direct heat exposure can pose risks. Using trivets and hot pads provides an added layer of protection. With proper precautions, quartz countertops can withstand the demands of everyday cooking and baking. Following the manufacturer’s care guidelines will help prevent accidental damage.