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When choosing a countertop for your kitchen, heat resistance is one thing that’s definitely on your mind. Well, you’re not alone.

This is why I was so interested in knowing quartz vs. granite heat resistance. They had caught my attention, and I needed to make a choice.

So, are you in a similar situation? In this post, I’ll tell you all about quartz vs. granite heat resistance.

Granite vs. Quartz

Two options I found quite popular in my search for countertops were quartz and granite. Well, I found out this was due to their durability and strength.

Well, that’s why you’re also considering them. But what are they all about?

Manufacturing

Granite is a natural item that comes from stones and minerals. They come to live as a result of various reactions at high temperature and pressure inside the earth.

On the other hand, quartz is human-made. It comes through the processing of resins and quartz crystals. Typically, it gets pressed, heated, then colored to take the look of natural stone.

Appearance

When it comes to granite, due to its natural emergence, it comes with loads of variations. On the other hand, most quartz comes with uniform patterns and colors. Well, this is because it’s human-made.

So, with granite, you get a unique stone. However, with quartz, you get a consistency that you can easily match up with seams.

Maintenance

You’ll find granite more challenging to maintain and clean. And this is due to its porous nature. Typically, it’s more susceptible to spills and stains. And, you’ll need to seal it regularly to keep it in top condition.

On the other hand, you’ll have less trouble maintaining quartz. It’s entirely non-porous, meaning it’s less susceptible to spills and stains. Even more, you don’t need to seal it. A little rag and warm water will do the cleaning trick.

Features

Choosing granite means you get a strong and hard option. However, since quartz is human-made, it provides an even harder and stronger countertop option compared to granite.

Also, you can repair your granite countertop if it gets scratched or chipped. On the other hand, you’ll find this impossible with quartz.

quartz-heat-resistance

What Is A Safe Amount of Heat for Quartz Countertops?

You already know that your quartz countertop can withstand heat. Still, what you’re wondering is how much heat can it withstand.

Well, it’s okay to be curious. This is because, while quartz is heat resistant, this doesn’t mean it’s foolproof when it comes to heat. So, yes, when the heat level passes a particular level, you may damage your countertop.

So, here’s what to know.

Your quartz countertop can accommodate heat reaching up to 150 degrees Fahrenheit. Then, when the heat level passes this, it will cause discoloration and burn marks on your countertop.

You might be wondering why. Well, it’s simple.

Like I earlier mentioned, quartz comprises resins. And when the heat passes the acceptable level, the resins in your countertop surface melts, causing the discoloration.

So, unless you can measure the level of heat coming from your hot pan and pot, it might be best to avoid placing them on your quartz countertop.

What Is A Safe Amount of Heat for Granite Countertops?

Once again, it’s no news that your granite countertop possesses high heat resistance. But you shouldn’t mistake this to mean your granite countertop cannot get harmed from heat.

Well, it can, and this occurs where the heat level goes beyond 400 degrees Fahrenheit. This is because granite can withstand anything below it. But once it gets higher, it becomes a problem.

As such, you might want to use protective materials on your granite countertop before placing things on it. Even better to avoid hot items altogether.

What Is the Best Way to Avoid Countertop Heat Damage?

While you might have believed you were safe from heat, now you know better. While your granite and quartz countertops are heat resistant, high exposure can cause heat damage.

As such, it’s up to you to take extra care and protect your countertop from such damage. Here are some things I found helpful that will help you too.

Use Protective Layers

One thing that can help you prevent heat damage is using protective layers. These layers include hot pads and trivets.

Their function is quite simple. These layers bear the brunt of the heat. And stop your countertop from coming in contact with heat.

At its worst, they ensure that the level of heat that gets to your countertop gets reduced. This way, the heat level falls within the acceptable levels. And, of course, your countertop can avoid heat damage.

Don’t Install Outdoors

You’re thinking of installing them outside means less contact with hot pots and pans. Well, you’re mistaken. You’ll only expose them to direct sunlight.

Guess what. This does as much, if not more, damage than hot pots. This is because your hot pot will last a few minutes. When outdoor, your countertop will have to face heat from the sun for long hours.

So, your best bet is to install them inside. This way, the sun doesn’t cause heat damage to your countertop.

Avoid High-Traffic Areas

You’re more likely to place hot items on your countertop when in high traffic areas.

So, the best thing you can do is place your countertops in areas with reduced traffic. This way, your countertop is less likely to go get hot items on it every time.

Also, you should know that your best bet is to combine all these tips.

Final Thoughts

You don’t want to get careless with your granite or quartz countertop just because it’s heat resistant. The fact is that if you’re not careful, you can cause heat damage to it.

I’ve told you how much heat your countertop can withstand. You’ve also learned few but effective tips to prevent heat damage.

So, use them, choose wisely, and keep your countertop in good condition.

Trust the Boston countertop experts at RSK Marble and Granite to help you with any questions you may have about these options and more.

Call the experts here at RSK Marble & Granite at 978-447-1001 or by contacting us here.

Related Questions

1. Can I Put Hot Pan on A Quartz Countertop?

While your quartz countertop is resistant to heat, it’s not a good idea to place a hot pan on it. Your best bet is to place a protective layer such as a trivet between your quartz and pan.

2. Is Granite Resistant to Heat?

Yes, one of the perks of granite is heat resistance, as it can withstand heat reaching as much as 400 degrees and sometimes 1 200 degrees Fahrenheit. However, you’ll need to avoid extreme heat and sudden changes in temperature, like from hot to cold temperatures.

3. How Hot Is Too Hot for Quartz Countertops?

Any temperature exceeding 150 degrees Fahrenheit is generally too hot for quartz countertops. Best to use a protective layer and avoid sudden temperature changes.