Quartz countertops are an increasingly popular choice for kitchen and bathroom remodels due to their durability, aesthetics, and low maintenance. However, one concern homeowners may have is how well quartz handles radiant heat from appliances like crockpots and skillets. Here is an in-depth look at how quartz countertops perform with radiant heat sources.
What is Radiant Heat?
Radiant heat is the thermal energy that radiates out from a heat source like a hot pan or pot placed on a countertop. The heat travels through the air away from the source, warming anything solid it contacts through infrared radiation. Radiant heat can be intense directly above the heat source but dissipates as it moves further away.
The Thermal Properties of Quartz
Quartz countertops are an engineered stone made from roughly 90% ground quartz crystals combined with pigments and resin. The key thermal properties of quartz that relate to radiant heat resistance include:
- Low thermal conductivity – Quartz has a relatively low rate of heat transfer compared to natural stone and metal. This means it does not readily conduct heat from hot objects placed on its surface.
- Resistance to thermal shock – Sudden temperature changes do not cause quartz to crack or break down like some natural stones.
- High heat tolerance – Quartz can withstand intermittent heat exposure up to 212°F and brief exposure near 300°F without damage.
These properties make quartz resistant to damage from typical household radiant heat sources.
How Well Quartz Handles Radiant Heat
With its thermal properties in mind, here is how quartz holds up to common radiant heat sources:
Cookware
Very hot skillets, pots, pans, and other cookware do not damage quartz when placed directly on the surface for short periods of time. While prolonged contact may risk minor surface damage, quartz stands up well compared to many other countertop materials.
Appliances
Small kitchen appliances like crockpots, instant pots, and induction burner plates pose little risk for quartz countertops. Direct contact for prolonged periods can potentially cause minor discoloration or very shallow surface marks. These are largely cosmetic and do not affect the integrity of the countertop.
Hot Pans from the Oven
Pans straight from a hot oven can reach 300-400°F when first set on a countertop. Quartz can withstand the initial contact but prolonged direct heat exposure at these temperatures may risk surface damage. Using a trivet or hot pad is recommended.
Radiant Heat Lamps and Warmers
Quartz can safely withstand the radiant heat from food warming lamps and hot plates used for buffet serving. While prolonged exposure to temperatures over 300°F may run some risk, typical use falls well within quartz’s heat tolerance.
Best Practices for Quartz Around Radiant Heat
While quartz offers good thermal performance, a few basic practices can help ensure your countertops avoid any impacts from extreme radiant heat sources:
- Use hot pads or trivets when setting very hot cookware on quartz.
- Avoid prolonged direct contact with heat sources above 212°F.
- Don’t place quartz near radiant heaters, wood stoves or other high-intensity heat sources.
- Immediately wipe up any spills from hot pans that could scorch if left to sit.
With routine care, quartz countertops can retain their smooth, flawless look for years despite regular exposure to typical cooking radiant heat. Their thermal properties make quartz an ideal surface for busy kitchens.
Frequently Asked Questions About Quartz and Radiant Heat
Can hot pans damage quartz countertops?
Hot pans straight from the stove or oven will not immediately damage or scorch quartz. However, prolonged direct contact with surfaces above 300°F may risk minor cosmetic damage over time. Using trivets is recommended but not essential for short term contact with very hot pans.
What happens if you leave a hot plate or crockpot on a quartz countertop?
Leaving a hot plate, crockpot, instant pot or other cooking appliance running for an extended time can potentially discolor or mark quartz surfaces. However, any damage is largely cosmetic and does not affect the integrity or performance of the countertop.
Is it OK to cut food on quartz countertops right after cooking?
Yes, quartz can safely withstand a hot pan used to sear or cook food right before transferring the food to a cutting board on the countertop. The intermittent heat will not damage the surface. Just avoid setting the hot pan itself directly on the quartz for prolonged periods.
Can you put a griddle directly on quartz?
Small portable griddles, like those used for pancakes or grilled cheese, do not get hot enough to immediately damage quartz. However, prolonged direct contact with surfaces over 300°F may eventually risk minor cosmetic damage. Use a trivet for extended cooking.
Does radiant heat from quartz damage countertops like laminate?
Not at all. The radiant heat from typical kitchen appliances dissipates rapidly and does not intensely heat the surrounding countertop surface. Any heat absorbed by quartz does not conduct well sideways to other areas of the countertop or underlying cabinets.
Conclusion
Quartz has excellent resistance to the intermittent, moderate radiant heat from everyday cooking and appliances. While extreme or prolonged direct heat contact can pose some risk, quartz performs admirably compared to many other countertop materials. With some simple precautions, quartz countertops maintain their integrity and appearance for years despite routine exposure to radiant heat. For busy kitchens, quartz delivers an ideal balance of heat tolerance and low maintenance.