Quartz countertops are extremely popular in kitchens today for several good reasons. Not only are they attractive and available in a wide range of colors and patterns, but they are also durable, scratch-resistant, and relatively easy to maintain. However, like all countertop materials, they do require some special care, especially when it comes to hot pans and heat. So, can hot pans go on quartz countertops?
The Short Answer
The short answer is yes, you can place hot pans on quartz countertops, but you need to use trivets or hot pads. Even though quartz is heat-resistant to a certain degree, prolonged direct contact with extremely hot pans can potentially damage the surface. Trivets or hot pads protect the countertop from localized overheating and discoloration.
The Longer Explanation
Now let’s go into some more detail on the heat tolerance of quartz and best practices for using hot pans on quartz countertops.
How Heat Resistant is Quartz?
Quartz countertops are engineered stone made from roughly 90% ground quartz aggregates combined with polymers and pigments. The quartz minerals make the material very hard and dense, while the polymers bind everything together.
This combination creates a material that is heat resistant up to about 150°C (300°F). However, quartz is not truly heat proof. Prolonged direct contact with temperatures above this threshold can potentially cause damage.
Potential Risks of Hot Pans on Quartz
Placing extremely hot cookware directly on the surface can lead to a few issues:
- Discoloration – The polymers in the quartz can discolor or yellow at very high temperatures. This may show up as light marks or small discolored spots on the surface.
- Cracks – Large fluctuations in temperature can create stresses in the material that lead to cracks. Hot pans create extreme temperature spikes in localized areas.
- Melting – In rare cases, if the pan is hot enough, it can potentially melt a small depression into the quartz surface.
Best Practices for Using Hot Pans on Quartz
To avoid any potential damage, follow these best practices when using hot pans on quartz countertops:
- Always use trivets or hot pads when placing hot pans on the countertop. This helps dissipate the heat and prevents direct contact with the quartz surface.
- Avoid letting pans slide around on the quartz, as friction can create heat buildup. Lift pans up and place them in position.
- Don’t let pans or kettles boil dry on the countertop, as this allows the heat to concentrate directly on the surface.
- Always let pans cool down for at least 5-10 minutes before placing them in direct contact with the quartz.
- Clean up spills quickly to prevent prolonged heat exposure in one area.
- Consider using rear burners for cooking when possible to keep the hottest pans away from your quartz countertop.
Is Thermal Shock a Concern?
Thermal shock refers to damage caused by a sudden and extreme change in temperature. In the case of quartz countertops, this would mean going from very hot to cold instantly.
Fortunately, thermal shock is not a major concern for quartz surfaces, thanks to their overall resilience and heat resistance. However, you still don’t want to pour ice water into a hot pan sitting on the countertop, as this concentrates extreme hot and cold in one area.
Is Heat Damage Covered by Warranty?
Always check with your specific quartz manufacturer, but heat damage from hot cookware is not typically covered under warranty. The warranties are meant to cover manufacturing defects, not natural damage during use. So it’s best to exercise caution when using hot pans.
Keeping Your Quartz Countertop Beautiful
By following the advice above, you can confidently use your cookware while keeping your quartz counters pristine. Quartz offers so many advantages in today’s busy kitchens, with just a little care you can maintain its good looks for many years. Be sure to also follow the manufacturer’s care and maintenance guidelines. With routine cleaning and protection from extreme heat, your quartz counters will continue looking gorgeous.
Common Questions about Hot Pans on Quartz (FAQ)
Can I put a hot pan directly on my quartz countertop?
It’s best not to place a hot pan directly on quartz without a trivet or hot pad. While quartz can withstand short contact with moderate heat, prolonged direct exposure to high heat can potentially cause damage.
What temperature can quartz withstand?
Quartz countertops are engineered to be heat resistant up to about 150°C-300°F. Higher temperatures, especially in direct contact with the surface, may cause damage.
Should I completely avoid putting hot pans on quartz?
No, you don’t need to completely avoid placing hot pans on quartz. Just be sure to use trivets or pads and allow pans to cool for 5-10 minutes first. Avoid sliding hot pans around on the surface.
Will my quartz countertop crack from hot pans?
It’s unlikely, but repeatedly exposing the same area to extreme heat could potentially cause cracks over time. Using trivets prevents this type of damage.
Can quartz counters get burned or melted by hot pans?
In very rare cases, extremely hot cookware could potentially scorch or melt a depression into the quartz. But this is highly unusual with proper trivet use.
Does thermal shock damage quartz?
Pouring ice water into a hot pan can concentrate extreme temperatures in one spot. But overall, thermal shock is not a major concern for quartz’s resilience.
Will hot cookware damage void my quartz warranty?
Heat damage from hot pans and cookware is generally not covered under manufacturer warranties. The warranty covers production flaws, not normal use damage.
Conclusion
Quartz offers durability, easy maintenance, and resistance to heat damage under normal cooking conditions. By using trivets or hot pads and exercising reasonable care, quartz countertops can perform beautifully for years, even with daily use of hot cookware. Follow the simple precautions outlined above, and you can confidently cook on quartz without worries. Just be sure to check any specific guidance from your quartz manufacturer as well. With a little routine care, your quartz counters can handle whatever you cook up in your kitchen.