Quartz countertops are popular choices for kitchens and bathrooms due to their durability, low maintenance, and stylish appearance. However, some people have concerns about the potential for burns when using quartz countertops. Here is a detailed look at how common burns are with quartz and steps you can take to prevent them.
What Causes Burns on Quartz Countertops?
There are a few factors that can lead to burns when using quartz countertops:
Hot Pans and Pots
Quartz is an engineered stone made from natural quartz crystals and resins. It is resistant to scratches, stains, and heat. However, quartz can still get damaged when exposed to extreme direct heat over a prolonged period.
Placing very hot pans, pots, or baking trays directly from the oven or stove onto the quartz can potentially cause discoloration or blistering if left for an extended time. The intense heat can damage the resin used to bind the quartz crystals.
Hot Appliances
Using hot appliances like curling irons, flat irons or blow dryers directly on a quartz countertop surface can also lead to burns or discoloration. The concentrated heat from the appliances can scorch or blister the material over time.
Prolonged Sun Exposure
Quartz countertops are not vulnerable to UV rays in the way that some natural stone surfaces are. However, over time, intense and prolonged sun exposure can potentially cause discoloration on quartz surfaces. The UV rays can damage the resin binders. This is most common around a kitchen window over the sink or on bathroom vanity tops near windows.
How Common Are Burns on Quartz Countertops?
Burns and discoloration are not very common on quartz countertops when used properly. The key is avoiding exposing the surface to extreme direct heat over prolonged periods.
Quartz countertops are engineered to withstand normal everyday use. Things like briefly placing hot pans on the surface, chopping vegetables, and meal prep are not problematic. Burns typically only occur with misuse when very hot items are left for extended periods.
With proper care, most homeowners never experience any burns or discoloration on their quartz counters during years of regular use. It is not a highly common issue.
Tips to Prevent Burns on Quartz Surfaces
Here are some helpful tips to prevent burns and damage when using quartz countertops:
- Use trivets or hot pads when placing hot pans or baking dishes directly from the oven or stove.
- Don’t leave flat irons, curling irons or other hot appliances sitting directly on the quartz.
- Install a shade over quartz surfaces near windows that get intense direct sunlight.
- Clean up spills rapidly to avoid prolonged heat exposure from hot liquids.
- Avoid using quartz surfaces as a cutting board to prevent scratches and knicks that could lead to cracks over time.
- Use heat diffusers under warm appliances like coffee makers and crockpots.
By taking a few minor precautions, you can easily avoid burns and enjoy the durability and beauty of quartz countertops for many years. With proper care, quartz provides an attractive, low maintenance solution for busy kitchens.
Frequently Asked Questions About Burns on Quartz Countertops
How long can you leave a hot pan on quartz?
It’s best to remove hot pans, pots, and baking dishes from quartz countertops within 5-10 minutes. Leaving them for longer periods repeatedly can increase the risks of discoloration or burns. Always use trivets or pads for added protection.
Can you put a flat iron on quartz?
No, it’s not advisable to place hot flat irons or curling irons directly on quartz countertops as the concentrated heat over time can damage the surface. Allow appliances to fully cool before setting them on quartz.
Does quartz burn easily?
Quartz does not burn easily during normal daily use. However, prolonged direct high heat can potentially lead to discoloration or blistering. Avoid leaving very hot items for extended periods. With proper care, burns are uncommon.
Is quartz ruined if burned?
If burns or discoloration occur, the damage is typically only on the surface resin layer. Light burns can often be sanded and polished out without having to replace the entire countertop. But deep burns may require a full replacement.
Should I get a quartz color darker than white?
Darker quartz colors like blacks, grays and browns do a better job at hiding potential burns or discoloration over time. Lighter colors show damage easier. But with proper care, any quartz color can resist burns.
Conclusion
Burns on quartz countertops are fairly uncommon with ordinary daily usage. By taking basic precautions and avoiding prolonged direct high heat, quartz can maintain its beauty for many years without damage. Following a few simple guidelines for using hot objects and appliances can help prevent burns or discoloration on these popular engineered stone counters. With a bit of care, you can safely enjoy quartz’s stylish looks and durability.