Quartz countertops are an increasingly popular choice for kitchen and bathroom remodeling projects due to their durability, easy maintenance, and stylish appearance. However, as with any countertop material, proper care and caution should be exercised to prevent damage. When it comes to placing hot items on quartz, there are some guidelines to follow.
What is Quartz?
Quartz countertops, sometimes referred to as engineered stone, are made from ground natural quartz crystals combined with resins and pigments. The result is a non-porous, durable surface that resists scratches, stains, and heat better than many natural stone countertops.
Some key facts about quartz:
- Composed of approximately 90% ground quartz and 10% polymer resins and pigments
- Non-porous so resists stains
- Harder and more durable than natural stone
- Available in a wide range of colors and patterns
- Resists chips, scratches, and heat damage
The Effect of Heat on Quartz
Quartz is more heat resistant than many countertop choices, such as solid surface, laminate, wood, or marble. However, subjecting it to extreme direct heat can pose some risks:
- The resins used in manufacturing quartz can lose integrity when exposed to temperatures over 300°F.
- Quartz can experience discoloration or scorching if very hot pans are left directly on the surface.
- Prolonged exposure to heat can cause the quartz to crack, especially around the heat source.
So while quartz is durable, hot items should not be placed directly on the surface.
Best Practices for Hot Items on Quartz
Here are some tips for handling hot cookware, dishes, and other items on a quartz countertop:
- Use trivets or hot pads – Place anything hot from the oven, stove, or microwave on a trivet or hot pad before setting on the quartz. This protects from direct heat.
- Avoid prolonged heat exposure – Don’t leave slow cookers, hot pans, or other hot items sitting directly on the quartz surface for an extended time. The prolonged exposure can damage the material.
- Allow cookware to cool before placing on quartz – After cooking on the stove or removing from the oven, allow pans and pots adequate time to cool before directly setting them on the quartz counter.
- Be careful with heated appliances – When using quartz around appliances like Instant Pots, crockpots, or electric griddles, use trivets and avoid prolonged direct contact.
- Watch for discoloration – If you notice any brown or white discoloration of the quartz, this means it has been exposed to excessive heat and the material is beginning to be compromised.
Protecting Your Investment
Quartz offers superior durability, maintenance ease, and visual appeal. By following simple precautions with hot items, you can protect your investment and keep your countertops damage-free for years. Some key tips:
- Always use trivets and hot pads as a barrier between the quartz and anything hot.
- Don’t leave heated cookware or appliances in prolonged direct contact with the surface.
- Allow hot items to adequately cool before placing directly on quartz.
- Clean up spills promptly to avoid any staining.
- If discoloration occurs, stop exposing the affected area to heat and have it professionally repaired.
With proper care, your quartz countertops will retain their durability and beauty while withstanding the demands of daily kitchen and bath use. Caution with hot items will help prevent permanent damage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you put a hot pan directly on quartz?
No, you should not put a hot pan directly from the stove or oven onto a quartz countertop. Always use a trivet or hot pad to protect the surface. Allow cookware to cool considerably before placing it in direct contact with quartz.
What happens if you leave a hot pot on quartz?
Leaving a hot pot, pan, dish, or appliance in prolonged contact with quartz can cause discoloration, burns, or cracks in the material. Always use trivets and promptly remove anything hot off the countertop.
What temperature can quartz withstand?
Quartz countertops can withstand brief contact with temperatures up to 300°F. However, prolonged exposure to heat beyond this can damage the solid surface. Quick contact with hot items below this threshold should not harm quartz.
Can you put a griddle on a quartz countertop?
Yes, you can use a griddle on quartz countertops, but prolonged direct contact with the heated surface should be avoided. Use trivets underneath and limit continuous usage to prevent any damage.
Is it okay to put a crockpot on a quartz countertop?
Yes, a crockpot or slow cooker can be used on quartz countertops by taking some precautions. Place a protective hot pad or trivet underneath before setting the crockpot on the surface. Avoid prolonged direct contact with the heated unit.
Conclusion
Quartz offers unmatched durability for kitchen and bathroom countertops. While resistant to heat damage, best practices should be followed when exposing quartz to hot items from cooking, baking or heated appliances. Using trivets, allowing proper cooling time, and limiting prolonged exposure will help ensure your quartz countertops withstand years of use without damage. With some simple precautions, quartz can handle the demands of any busy kitchen.