Quartz countertops are an increasingly popular option for kitchen and bathroom renovation projects. Made from ground quartz combined with resins and pigments, quartz counters are praised for their durability, low maintenance, and resistance to stains, scratches, and heat. However, quartz is not completely indestructible. Exposing quartz countertops to extreme temperatures can cause damage under certain circumstances. Here is a closer look at what temperatures may pose a risk for quartz counters and how to prevent heat damage.
How Hot is Too Hot for Quartz?
Quartz countertops are engineered to withstand moderate heat up to about 150°F. This makes them able to handle hot pans, baking sheets, and other cookware without issue. However, prolonged exposure to temperatures above 150°F can potentially cause damage.
According to most manufacturers, quartz counters can tolerate brief contact with temperatures up to about 212°F before risking damage. This means quartz should be able to withstand:
- Hot pots and pans from the stove or oven
- Boiling water from a tea kettle or pot
- Heated appliances like crockpots or electric griddles used for short periods
Temperatures above 212°F may damage quartz surfaces. One key risk area is exposure to heat over 300°F. At these high temperatures, the resins binding the quartz material together can start to break down. Damaging effects may include:
- Discoloration of the surface
- Blistering or bubbling
- Cracks forming in the material
So while quartz has excellent heat resistance for everyday use, direct, prolonged contact with very high heat should be avoided.
Preventing Heat Damage on Quartz
With proper care, it is possible to maintain the beauty of quartz over many years of use. Here are some tips to prevent thermal damage:
Use trivets and hot pads – Always set hot pots, pans, baking sheets, crockpots, griddles, etc. on trivets or hot pads rather than directly on the quartz. Trivets raise the cookware up to allow heat to dissipate and protect the counter.
Don’t expose quartz to open flames – Never place burning candles, portable stoves/burners, or other open flames directly on quartz surfaces. These can create extreme heat and soot which can mar the finish.
Take care with appliances – When using heating appliances like electric griddles, slow cookers, instant pots, and portable ovens, refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for any heat protection or minimum clearance recommendations to prevent excessive heat exposure to surrounding surfaces.
Let hot cookware cool first – Allow hot pans, dishes, and other items to cool down a bit on the stove or wire cooling racks before setting them on quartz counters. The few extra minutes can help avoid thermal shock.
Protect with hot pads during food prep – When working with hot items for cooking or baking, keep hot pads readily available and use trivets to set anything hot down temporarily. This helps avoid accidental direct contact between the very hot item and the quartz.
Clean spills up quickly – Clean up any oil, grease or other spills promptly to avoid the substance potentially sinking into the material at high heat and leaving a stain.
Following these simple practices can help your quartz counters keep looking like new for many years. While quartz’s durability and heat tolerance are excellent for a countertop material, it does have limitations at extreme high temperatures. Just avoid direct contact with items above 212°F, use trivets and hot pads, and clean up spills quickly, and your quartz counters should maintain their good looks and performance. Taking a few minor precautions can prevent unsightly damage.
Frequently Asked Questions About Heat Damage on Quartz Countertops
Can quartz counters tolerate temperatures up to 450°F?
No, direct contact with temperatures over 300°F can damage quartz countertops. While they have good heat tolerance for normal kitchen use, prolonged exposure above 300°F can damage the resin binders.
Can you put a cast iron skillet on quartz?
Cast iron skillets fresh from the stove or oven will likely exceed 212°F and should not be placed directly on quartz. Allow skillets to completely cool first or place on a trivet or hot pad to prevent direct contact.
What happens if you leave a hot pot on quartz?
Leaving a very hot pot, pan, or dish on the counter can potentially damage quartz. The prolonged direct contact with temperatures above 150°F – 212°F could lead to discoloration, bubbles, or cracks. Always use trivets and hot pads.
Can boiling water crack a quartz countertop?
While brief contact with boiling water from cooking may be tolerated, prolonged exposure could damage quartz. Let water cool a bit first and avoid setting very hot pots or kettles directly on the counter without a hot pad for protection.
Can you put a wok on quartz?
Only if the wok has been allowed to completely cool after cooking. Very hot woks fresh off a burner may exceed 212°F and should not have direct contact with quartz counters without allowing time for the wok to cool down sufficiently.
Do you have to seal quartz countertops from heat?
Sealing or waxing is generally not required for quartz counters. The material is non-porous, so sealing for heat or stains is typically unnecessary. Simply use good practices like trivets and avoid direct high heat exposure.
Conclusion
Quartz offers many advantages as a durable, low-maintenance countertop material that can withstand typical kitchen heat. However, direct contact with temperatures exceeding 212°F can potentially damage quartz surfaces. Being mindful of hot cookware and avoiding exposing quartz to open flames or other extreme heat will help prevent thermal damage. With some simple precautions, quartz countertops can stay looking beautiful for many years.