The kitchen is the busiest area of a home… one that faces the highest traffic. With that, it can also be the most dangerous room due to heat exposure. This brings the concern of countertop maintenance, yes, even if the material is as durable as quartz.
Here, we will talk about professional tips on how to protect quartz countertops from heat (and stains). Simple everyday measures, and tips on when to call in a professional. Let’s get to it.
Can Quartz Counters Take the Heat?
Simply: no. Quartz counters are heat-resistant, not heat-proof. The material is made of 90% quartz + 10% resin (a binder that can only bear up to 150 F heat before getting damaged). Placing very hot objects on the surface can discolor the countertop, and sometimes cause permanent damage.
Mistakes happen, so you might accidentally place something hot directly from the oven on the counter, after which you will notice scorch marks, often brown or yellow. But this does not mean the surface is permanently damaged. It’s an indication of a resin burn, which professionals can repair more often than not.
You may also notice moderately hot pans causing discoloration when left on the countertop for too long. Fortunately, a few safety measures in the kitchen are all you need to protect your quartz counters (and hands) from usual kitchen burns.
Risks of Heat Damage to Quartz Countertops
Before taking precautions, it’s important to understand how heat can impact the countertops; it can cause…
- Discoloration
- Warping or cracking
- Loss of finish
- Permanent damage
The care for your countertops depends on how you use the kitchen, and you’d need to consider a few extra things if the surface has already been damaged.
Tips to Protect Quartz Countertops from Heat
Place Hot Dishes & Pots on Trivets
Hours in the kitchen can quickly become super hectic. Evenings may involve helping children with homework. Cooking a meal for the family. And also tending to your dog who seems to want all your attention. It’s natural to get distracted with so much going on. You might end up placing a hot plate on the countertop, and although that won’t cause instant damage, it can discolor the surface if left there for too long.
For responsible chefs who have their trivets and hot pads at their service, this won’t be a problem. If you make sure to place all hot pans, plates, baking sheets, and any dishes on a protective barrier, the countertop below will stay safe—and new as always.
Use Coasters Whenever Possible
You’re likely not drinking coffee at 300F (ouch!), but it’s still always a good idea to protect the quartz counters with coasters, as prolonged exposure to even moderate heat can cause damage. Bonus points if you’ve got a couple of stunning marble coasters—style and protection, together!
Opt for High-Quality Quartz
It’s a one-time investment. Try to go as big as possible. Though all quartz undergoes a somewhat similar process when being transformed into countertops, certain quartz offerings will have higher quality ingredients than others. You’d not only want to research the type of quartz, but also a reputable provider who offers the highest quality quartz colors and patterns.
Protect from the Sun
If you designed your kitchen to welcome maximum natural light, there might be a slight problem here. Sunlight doesn’t directly damage quartz countertops instantly, but prolonged exposure can discolor the surface. You will end up with countertops that vary in color throughout the kitchen, with the portion constantly in the sunlight appearing duller than the rest. Now, you can’t change the layout of your kitchen, of course, but you also don’t have to compromise your favorite countertop material. Just make sure to close the curtains during peak Sunshine hours. A regular seal over the countertop would also help.
Avoid Heavy Impacts
Another thing to be mindful of. That is, avoid heavy impacts on the surface. Could be heavy items falling on the countertop, or even someone sitting on the countertop. Both could cause cracks, or even worse, permanent damage.
Prevent Scratches from Kitchen tools
Cutting, chopping, meal prepping. There’s a lot that goes on in the kitchen… a lot that the countertops need to be protected from. Hence the reason why professionals always recommend using cutting boards, and also to avoid metal utensils.
Do Not Wait for Spills to Dry
Clean up immediately. Spills are normal, and while you might want to clean them up after you’re done cooking, that’s not the best approach on quartz countertops, especially if the stains are from acidic substances, like soda, coffee, or cooking oils.
The Type of Cleaner + Cleaning Cloth Matters
To Avoid—Acidic cleaners (or glass cleaners) + abrasive scouring pads.
To Use—Wam, soapy water + and soft cloth (or sponge).
Protect from Your Curling Iron
A tip for quartz countertops in the bathroom. Don’t place your curling iron or straightener directly on the surface. Use either spoon rests or a stylish trivet-like mat, so you always have something aesthetic to protect your beautiful countertops.
Keep the Sink Clear for Hot Pans
If the sink is empty, you won’t be tempted to place hot pans on the counters amidst a multi-stage recipe. So before you start cooking, we’d suggest clearing the sink first. Takes a few extra minutes, but is definitely worth it.
Reseal Regularly
Every 1-2 years is ideal. Sealing makes the surface more resistant to heat damage, so you wouldn’t want to miss out on this care tip for quartz.
How to Fix Heat Damage on Quartz Counters
Spills happen, mistakes sometimes slip through. But you can always fix things with a few quick tips. First, try cleaning the countertops (only gently, for now). Use a solution of mild soap and warm water. Rub the affected area to remove the scorch mark, but not too vigorously; you don’t want to scratch the surface.
If the soap-water solution doesn’t do the trick, you will need to go in for a deeper clean. Create a solution of baking soda and water. Apply it to the discolored area. Let it sit there for a couple of minutes.
The damage may sometimes be too deep, though, and these DIY methods don’t help. Professional services are needed in that case. Or, you could simply cover the damaged area with a stationary chopping block or a decorative element.
Comparing Quartz to Other Countertop Materials in Heat Durability
Granite. Highly heat resistant, can bear direct contact with hot cookware.
Marble. Heat-resistant, but only to some extent. Prone to etching.
Soapstone. Most heat-resistant. Ideal for kitchens with heavy cooking.
Limestone. Not heat-resistant enough. Can warp or bubble.
Overall, quartz is good at handling heat, but there’s still care to extend & precautionary measures to take 🤍