Can Quartz Countertops Withstand Hot Pots?

Heat Resistance

• You can briefly place moderately hot pots and pans on a quartz countertop without incurring any damage. However, leaving a hot pan on quartz for longer than a minute or two can leave a mark on the countertop. The blemish usually is the result of hot residue on the bottom of the pans adhering to the quartz finish. To ensure your quartz countertop retains its natural luster for years, use a trivet or hot pad underneath hot pots and pans.

Other Attributes

• In addition to moderate heat resistance, quartz countertops resist stains from common substances such as coffee, tea, wine, felt-tip markers, nail-polish remover and nail polish. The nonporous surface of quartz countertops makes it certified by the National Sanitation Foundation for safe food preparation. Quartz surfaces cannot be penetrated by food or beverages that breed harmful bacteria and are highly resistant to mold and mildew growth.

Quartz Sensitivities

• To ensure your quartz countertop retains its desirable characteristics, avoid using knives to prepare food on it. While quartz is resistant to scratches, vigorous cutting on it can result in marks. Using a cutting board also prevents dulling of knives, which lose their edges when the blades hit the quartz countertop. Despite its sturdiness, quartz regularly exposed to direct sunlight discolors, so avoid using it for outdoor countertops or indoor areas that receive daily doses of full sun.

Caring for Quartz

• In addition to using trivets and cutting boards to protect your quartz countertop, avoid cleaning it with abrasive cleansers or cleaning pads made from harsh materials. The shiny patina of quartz is natural and never requires refinishing or sealants to keep its luster; it benefits from daily upkeep with mild soap and warm water. You can give quartz extra shine with regular window cleaner wiped off with a soft cotton cloth or paper towel. If food becomes stuck on the countertop, use a nylon or plastic pot scrubber and an abrasive-free cleanser to remove it. Additionally, household chemical solvents and cleaners, including oven cleaners, paint thinners and strippers, and drain opening solutions, easily damage quartz countertops.