Quartz vs. Granite Countertops: A Battle of Heat Resistance

Kitchen with green cabinets and a grey island. Quartz countertops are on the island and the cabinets. Gold hardware is throughout. A double oven is on the back wall. There is white subway tile backsplash behind the sink. There is a wood floor.

When it comes to home and interior design, few elements are as central to the aesthetics and functionality of a space as countertops. Countertops serve as the workhorses of the kitchen, withstanding everything from meal prep to hot pots and pans. Two of the most popular choices for countertops are quartz and granite, each with its unique attributes. In this article, we'll explore the critical aspect of heat resistance to help you make an informed decision for your kitchen or interior design project.

The Battle Begins: Quartz vs. Granite

Before diving into the specifics of heat resistance, let's briefly introduce quartz and granite countertops.

Quartz Countertops

Close up of a quartz counter top. The quartz is mostly white with gray veins throughout. The grey veins vary in color from light grey to near black.

Quartz countertops are engineered stone surfaces made from a combination of natural quartz crystals, resins, and pigments. This manufacturing process allows for a wide range of colors and patterns, making quartz a versatile and attractive choice for various kitchen designs.

Granite Countertops

Close up of a colorful granite countertop. The granite has veins of deep orange, varying grays, and whites. The granite counter top is very colorful and the color variations are large.

Granite, on the other hand, is a natural stone that is quarried, cut into slabs, and polished for use as countertops. Each granite countertop is unique, with distinct patterns and colors that reflect the geological history of the region where it was sourced.

Granite countertop with orange Le Creuset Signature Enameled Cast Iron Round Dutch Oven with Lid on the counter. A bowl of lemons is in the background along with booths and tables.

Heat Resistance: A Critical Factor

Heat resistance is a crucial consideration when selecting countertops, especially for a space as high-traffic as the kitchen. Countertops need to withstand the rigors of cooking, including hot pots and pans, without sustaining damage. Let's examine how quartz and granite stack up in this regard.

Quartz Countertops and Heat Resistance

Quartz countertops are engineered to be highly resistant to heat, but they are not entirely heatproof. Here's what you need to know about their heat resistance:

Temperature Tolerance: Quartz countertops can generally withstand temperatures up to 150 degrees Celsius (about 300 degrees Fahrenheit) for short durations. This means that placing a hot pan or pot directly from the stove or oven onto the quartz surface is not advisable.
Use of Trivets: To protect your quartz countertops from thermal shock, it's recommended to use trivets or hot pads when placing hot cookware on the surface. This precaution helps distribute the heat more evenly and avoids localized heat stress.
Seam and Edge Vulnerability: While the surface of quartz is heat-resistant, the resin used in its manufacturing can be less heat-resistant. Extended exposure to high heat along the edges or seams may cause discoloration or damage to the resin.
Consistency: Quartz countertops offer consistency in their heat resistance. You can expect similar levels of heat resistance across different brands and styles of quartz countertops.

Granite Countertops and Heat Resistance

Granite countertops have a natural advantage when it comes to heat resistance, but they also require some care:

High Temperature Tolerance: Granite is highly heat-resistant and can withstand high temperatures without significant damage. It can handle the direct placement of hot pots and pans on its surface without the need for trivets or hot pads.
Natural Variability: While granite, in general, is heat-resistant, the exact heat tolerance may vary depending on the specific type and origin of the granite. It's always a good idea to ask your supplier about the heat resistance of the particular granite you choose.
Sealing Matters: Granite is porous, and the degree of heat resistance can be influenced by the quality of the sealant applied. A well-sealed granite countertop will be more resilient to heat and less susceptible to staining or damage.

A white countertop in a white kitchen with an orange Le Creuset Signature Enameled Cast Iron Round Dutch Oven with Lid sitting on the counter on top of a trivet.

Making the Right Choice for Your Kitchen

When it comes to heat resistance, granite has the upper hand due to its natural composition. It can handle high temperatures with ease, making it a suitable choice for avid cooks who regularly work with hot cookware.

However, it's important to remember that both quartz and granite countertops can be used safely in the kitchen with proper care:

For quartz, always use trivets or hot pads to protect the surface from direct heat exposure. Be mindful of seams and edges, as these areas may be more vulnerable to heat damage.
With granite, enjoy its natural heat resistance, but don't forget to maintain the sealant to preserve its overall durability and appearance.

Kitchen with a grey marble counter top. Copper flour and spice jars sit on the counter top. Wooden cabinets have an open area with white dishes. Vertical white subway tile is a backsplash against the back wall.

Other Factors to Consider in Your Decision

While heat resistance is a significant factor, it's not the only one to consider when choosing between quartz and granite countertops for your home or interior design project. Here are a few other aspects to keep in mind:

Aesthetics: Both quartz and granite offer a wide range of colors and patterns, but they have distinct visual characteristics. Granite's natural variations may be more appealing to those seeking a unique, one-of-a-kind look, while quartz allows for more consistent designs.
Durability: Both materials are durable and can withstand daily wear and tear. However, granite is more likely to chip or crack if subjected to a heavy impact, while quartz is less susceptible to such damage.
Maintenance: Quartz is non-porous, which means it doesn't require sealing and is more resistant to staining. Granite is porous and needs periodic sealing to maintain its appearance and durability.
Cost: The cost of quartz and granite countertops can vary, but quartz tends to be more affordable than high-end granite options.
Environmental Considerations: If you're concerned about the environmental impact, quartz countertops may be a better choice. They are made with a significant percentage of recycled materials and are generally considered more eco-friendly.
Installation: The installation process for quartz and granite countertops can vary, and it's essential to hire a professional to ensure a proper fit.

A white kitchen with hexagonal backsplash. A quartz countertop sits with Le Creuset Signature Enameled Cast Iron Round Dutch Oven with Lid in teal and white on the counter top. A white KitchenAid mixer sits in the background.

Conclusion

In the battle of heat resistance between quartz and granite countertops, granite comes out on top due to its natural composition. It can withstand high temperatures and direct heat exposure without sustaining significant damage. However, quartz can also be a practical and attractive choice for your kitchen if you take precautions, such as using trivets or hot pads.

Ultimately, your decision should consider various factors, including aesthetics, durability, maintenance, cost, and environmental concerns. Both quartz and granite offer their unique advantages, and the right choice depends on your specific needs and preferences. Whether you're seeking a modern, versatile look with quartz or a natural, one-of-a-kind appearance with granite, your kitchen can be both functional and beautiful.