How much heat can a countertop take? It depends on the material of the counter and in this post, we’ll be covering each one.
Table of Contents
How much heat can quartz countertops take?
Quartz countertops are extremely heat resistant and are able to withstand temperatures up to 148.89 degrees celsius. During the fabrication process where the countertop is being cured to ensure quality and longevity, it becomes a stain, scratch, and heat resistant.
Damage can occur to quartz if exposed to high temperatures. This damage can mean the quartz can suffer from discoloration, minor surfacing cracking due to heat as well as resin damage within the stone.
Regular heat damage can result in erosion of the sealant layer. Without this layer, the stone becomes porous and will not last as long.
It is beneficial to have a natural stone, like quartz in your kitchen as there is a significant fire hazard reduction. Fire will not spread easily to other surfaces due to its heat resistance.
What temperature does laminate melt?
Because laminate is made up of plastic it does melt at lower temperatures in comparison to more natural materials. Laminate melts at around 110 to 132.2 degrees celsius. We do not advise placing hot items directly onto your laminate countertop as it will do irreversible damage to the surface.
Laminate can melt very quickly when damaged with hot items. Heat damage to Laminate counters will show up prominently and cannot be cleaned easily.
It cannot be cleaned without further damage to its surface and is costly to do so. This means you may need to replace your counter slab entirely.
At what temperature does wood countertop melt?
Solid wood countertops are heat resistant but not fireproof. Depending on the chemical composition, wood melts anywhere from 190 degrees celsius to 260 degrees celsius. Unlike other natural materials, it can take a while before any signs of heat damage appear on solid wood countertops.
Butcher blocks are often a go-to for worktops due to their overall look and longevity. Wood is not prone to melting or warping significantly when exposed to extreme heat compared to other materials used for worktops.
Wood made for worktops does not easily burn or char but that does not mean that it never will. Burn marks in the wood can be repaired in various ways and do not require a complete replacement.
At what temperature does granite crack?
Granite countertops begin to crack at 1204.4 degrees celsius. Which is significantly higher than other materials used for countertops. This is one of the most heat-resistant materials available to use for a countertop. It is a natural stone that does not easily damage over time.
The composition of granite itself is formed from extreme temperatures, so it makes sense that the stone is heat resistant. However, the sealant used on most counters is not as heat resistant as the stone itself.
Granite will not be damaged immediately in comparison to man-made materials like laminate but the stone can internally produce cracks due to thermal shock. However, granite is a strong material and can last in great condition for decades without any signs of erosion.
At what temperature does quartz crack?
Quartz that is used in countertops is made to withstand temperatures up to 204.4 degrees celsius. Quartz is quite resistant to heat but it can still be damaged on the surface due to its sealant protective layer.
Quartz can be damaged at extreme temperatures, hot or cold. Drastic temperature changes also known as ‘thermal shock’ can result in external and internal cracking. The higher the quality of the quartz the less likely this may occur.
The less resin and color pigments mixed within the composition of the stone, the less it will be prone to any type of temperature damage. Ensure the quality of the material by researching the manufacturer and stone origin.
At what temperature does concrete crack?
Cracks can begin to occur in concrete when temperatures exceed 65 degrees celsius or dip below 4 degrees celsius. Cracks may not be able to be avoided with concrete. This material is heat resistant but damage can be avoided by not placing hot items directly onto the surface.
Concrete can develop hairline cracks that are a result of shrinkage. This is a natural side effect of the porous material. A sudden rise in temperature can speed up the moisture movement within the surface of the concrete.
Which in time can affect the overall strength of the concrete. The likelihood of cracks appearing within concrete can be greatly reduced if properly reinforced and installed with care by experts.
At what temperature does marble crack?
Marble is a natural stone formed from limestone and begins to weaken and potentially crack at temperatures of around 200 degrees celsius. Because marble is naturally formed through heat and pressure it can be extremely heat resistant.
Marble does not split easily, even when it is being mined. However, this does not mean it is immune to extreme temperature damage. Repeated heat damage can weaken the calcium within the marble making it prone to surface cracking.
Marble is a great choice for those who want longevity, heat resistance, and a fire-resistant counter. If cracks do occur, they can be fixed.
At what temperature can ceramic tile withstand?
Ceramic tiles are a fragile material and are prone to cracking. However, ceramic tiles can withstand temperatures of up to 1204.4 degrees celsius if fully vitrified. So if choosing a ceramic tile countertop make sure it is of high quality.
Ceramic tile kitchen countertops are not as durable as other materials, and once the tile is cracked it will need to be fully replaced. Ceramic tiles can crack if constantly exposed to differing temperatures.
However, a benefit of this particular material is that it is inexpensive to replace. But the cost of replacement will eventually outweigh the original instalment cost.
At what temperature does stainless steel melt?
The melting point for stainless steel is 1510 degrees celsius. So it is the most heat-resistant material used for countertops besides granite. Stainless steel is often used in more commercial environments as it is the safest option for fast-paced workplaces.
Stainless steel is a nonporous surface so there is no chance of internal damage in comparison to natural stone materials. It is the most heat resistant material alongside granite.
So you are able to place hot items on its surface without concern of permanently damaging its surface. The counter will become hot but the heat will not travel from the single spot. Stainless steel is very safe to use.
How to protect counters from heat?
It is easy and inexpensive to protect all types of countertops from heat damage. To maintain the quality of the countertop it is recommended by the manufacturer to not place hot items directly on their surface and to always use heat pads or trivets.
Keep these protective items within arm’s reach so that you’re less likely to forget to use them. Use coasters for your hot beverages, although they do not pose as big of a risk as larger hot items such as the base of a kettle, it is better to be safe than sorry.
Using these simple items will help maintain the quality of the counters to ensure longevity.
Use a trivet
Never place hot pans straight on the counter. Use a trivet instead, they’re specifically designed to handle extremely high temperatures.
Keep one next to the cooker so it’s always an arm reach away.
Use coasters
If you’ve have a cup of tea, a simple trivet will prevent ring stains and hot liquid from accidentally dripping onto the surface.
It’s an easy and affordable prevention method.
Use an oil guard
If you’re making something on the pan, a splash guard will prevent anything from spitting onto the counter and staining.
I remember when I first started using one, I couldn’t believe how useful it would actually be.
