Quartz countertops are an increasingly popular choice for kitchen and bathroom remodeling projects thanks to their durability, low maintenance, and stylish appearance. However, many homeowners wonder just how much heat quartz can withstand before becoming damaged. Here is a detailed look at the heat resistance of quartz countertops.
What is Quartz?
Quartz countertops, sometimes referred to as engineered stone, are made from ground natural quartz crystals combined with resins and pigments. This combination creates a very hardy material that is resistant to scratches, stains, and heat.
Compared to natural stone countertops like granite and marble, quartz offers superior durability and requires less ongoing sealing and polishing. Quartz also comes in a wide array of colors and patterns, allowing for more design flexibility.
How Much Heat Can Quartz Withstand?
One of the biggest advantages of quartz over other countertop materials is its ability to withstand heat. Here are some specifics on the heat tolerance of quartz:
- High heat resistance: Quartz has a high heat distortion temperature of 300°F (150°C), meaning it can easily withstand exposure to hot pans, dishes, and other kitchen items that are straight from the oven or stove.
- Thermal shock resistance: Sudden temperature changes do not negatively impact quartz because it is essentially non-porous. This means hot and cold items can be placed on quartz surfaces without any cracking or damage occurring.
- Resistance to prolonged heat exposure: Thanks to its resin binders, quartz can tolerate prolonged direct heat exposure up to 150°F (65°C). So a hot pan or pot can safely remain on the countertop surface for an extended time without posing a problem.
- Not damage-proof: Although quartz has excellent heat resistance, it is still possible to damage the material by exposing it to extreme temperatures above 300°F (150°C). The resin binders can lose their strength and cause the stone to crack if the heat threshold is surpassed.
Cooking with Quartz Countertops
Quartz countertops provide an ideal food preparation surface that can withstand the high heats needed for cooking and baking. Here are some dos and don’ts for using quartz around heat sources:
Safe Heat Exposure
- Placing hot pots, pans, and baking sheets directly on quartz surfaces
- Letting freshly baked goods cool on quartz
- Leaving slow cookers, instant pots, or other heated appliances running on quartz
- Exposing quartz to heat sources under 300°F like burners,warming trays, pizza stones
Avoid Extended Exposure to Extreme Heat
- Leaving extremely hot items that exceed 300°F in sustained contact with quartz
- Sitting very hot pots that have been on the stove for a prolonged time directly on quartz
- Exposing quartz to open flames
- Letting oven-hot pans and sheets directly contact quartz for over 10 minutes
Use Protective Measures
- Using trivets under extra hot cookware or bakeware
- Placing a protective hot pad between heated appliances and quartz
- Letting dishes cool for a few minutes before direct quartz contact
With some basic precautions, quartz offers unmatched performance and peace of mind for busy kitchens. Just avoid exposing it to extreme high heats for prolonged periods of time.
How Quartz Compares to Other Countertops
It is also helpful to understand how the heat resistance of quartz compares to other popular countertop materials:
- More heat resistant than solid surface: Materials like Corian have a lower heat distortion threshold around 250°F.
- Surpasses granite and marble: Natural stones are more prone to cracking and discoloration from heat exposure.
- Less heat resistant than sintered compact surfaces: Sintered compact countertops like Dekton and Neolith can handle temperatures over 300°F.
- Similar levels to other engineered quartz: All major quartz manufacturers use resins that offer comparable heat protection.
Signs of Heat Damage in Quartz
Although rare, it is possible for quartz countertops to become damaged from excessive heat exposure. Here are some signs to watch out for:
- Discoloration, such as a burnt or yellowish spot
- A crackled or blistered look
- A change in gloss, such as increased dullness
- Small hairline cracks or fissures
- Areas that feel slightly warped or uneven
Luckily, quartz can withstand plenty of daily kitchen use without heat damage. Just be sure to use reasonable care and quick cleanup after exposing quartz to high temperatures from cooking.
Can Damaged Quartz Be Repaired?
Minor heat damage may be repairable based on the warranty coverage offered by your countertop provider. Some options include:
- Polishing out discoloration or dull spots
- Filling small cracks and chips
- Refinishing with an epoxy resin to restore the protective surface
However, extensive damage will likely require a full quartz countertop replacement. This can be costly, so prevention is key. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s care guidelines.
Maintaining Your Quartz Countertops
To get the most out of your quartz countertops while protecting them from excessive heat damage, follow these care tips:
- Always use hot pads or trivets when placing extremely hot items from the oven or stove on quartz.
- Clean up spills as soon as possible, especially hot oil or grease splatters.
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning quartz surfaces. Usually warm soapy water or stone cleaner is best.
- Avoid exposes quartz to open flames or prolonged contact with heat sources above 300°F.
- Have quartz surfaces resealed every 1-2 years by a professional to maintain heat protection.
- Immediately inspect quartz for any signs of damage after exposure to significant heat.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I place my quartz countertop in the oven for storage?
No, placing a quartz countertop in the oven could potentially expose it to temperatures above its heat tolerance threshold and cause cracking or discoloration.
Is it OK to cut food directly on quartz?
Yes, quartz offers an excellent food preparation surface and can withstand the impacts from cutting, chopping, and slicing without damage. Just avoid prolonged heat exposure when cooking foods directly on quartz.
Can I place candles on my quartz countertop?
It’s not recommended, as the open flame could produce excessive heat. Use candleholders specifically designed to protect surfaces from candle damage instead.
What about using quartz near the stove?
Quartz holds up well against typical stovetop use. Just be sure to promptly wipe up any hot grease splatters and use trivets or hot pads when setting extremely hot cookware on quartz surfaces.
Can I crack an egg directly onto quartz?
Absolutely! The impact of an egg will not harm quartz. Just avoid prolonged heat exposure to the raw egg sitting on the countertop.
Conclusion
With routine care and caution against prolonged extreme heat exposure, quartz countertops can withstand plenty of daily kitchen use due to their high heat tolerance. Just be sure to use reasonable care when cooking and baking by promptly cleaning up spills, using trivets, and avoiding open flames. This will help prevent the rare possibility of heat damage. Thanks to its durability and resistance to scratches, stains, and high temperatures, quartz remains one of the best options for busy kitchens.