Quartz is a very popular countertop material because it is strong, durable, and low-maintenance. However, one question that homeowners often ask is whether or not heat can discolor quartz. In this article, we will answer that question and provide some tips on how to prevent quartz from discoloring.
Quartz countertops are heat resistant but can only withstand temperatures up to about 300 to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. If you place a hot pot or pan on your quartz countertop, it is possible that the heat will cause the quartz to discolor. Quartz is also susceptible to staining from oil and grease, so it is important to clean up spills quickly.
Keep reading to find out more!
Reasons Why Heat Discolors Quartz
1. Quartz Contains Resins
Quartz as a material is made up of quartz natural stone and resin. The resin is what binds and helps to give quartz its durability, but it is also the component that is most susceptible to heat damage. When the resin gets too hot, it can change color or even bubble up.
When heat over time changes the color of quartz, it is called thermal fading. This happens when the heat from a stovetop or oven slowly cooks the resin and causes it to change color over time.
If you have a quartz countertop, try not to place hot pots or pans on it directly. If you need to use a hot pan, put a trivet or heat pad down first to protect your countertop.
You can also avoid thermal fading by not placing anything hot on your countertop for extended periods of time. For example, if you are cooking a roast in the oven, don’t leave the pan on your quartz countertop to cool off afterward. The heat from the pan will transfer to the countertop and could cause the quartz to discolor.
2. Heat Can Discolor Quartz Countertops If It’s Stained
Another reason why heat might discolor your quartz is if the stone itself contains impurities. For example, if there is iron in the quartz, it can cause the stone to change color when it is heated.
If you have a quartz countertop with impurities or stains on it, it is important to clean up spills as quickly as possible. Do not let any liquids sit on the surface for long periods of time, as they could cause permanent staining especially if the quartz surface comes into contact with heat.
While this type of discoloration may not permanent and will usually fade over time, it is still best to take precautions and clean up any spills as soon as possible. That way you can avoid any potential damage to your quartz countertop.
3. The Heat Discolors The Top-Coating
If your quartz countertop has been sealed or coated with a finish, the heat may discolor this top layer. Depending on the type of sealant or coating used, it might not be possible to restore the surface to its original condition. In some cases, you may need to have the entire countertop replaced.
If your quartz countertop has been sealed or coated with a finish, the heat may discolor this top layer. Depending on the type of sealant or coating used, it might not be possible to restore the surface to its original condition. In some cases, you may need to have the entire countertop replaced.
If your quartz countertop has been sealed or coated with a finish, the heat may discolor this top layer. Depending on the type of sealant or coating used, it might not be possible to restore the surface to its original condition.
4. Some Quartz Are Porous
Another reason why heat can discolor quartz is that the stone is porous. This means that the heat can penetrate the surface and change the color of the quartz.
So if you have some moisture in the quartz, the heat can cause it to stain the quartz, even more, causing it to become darker over time.
One way to help prevent this is to make sure that your quartz countertop is completely dry after use. And also, you do not want to put anything hot on the quartz while it is hot.
This includes both cooking and baking activities. If there is any moisture present, it can cause the heat to penetrate the surface of the quartz and cause discoloration.
How To Prevent Heat From Discoloring Quartz
The best way to prevent heat from discoloring your quartz countertop is by taking some simple precautions. Here are a few tips:
- Protect Your Quartz Surfaces
Try not to place hot pots or pans on the countertop directly. If you need to use a hot pan, put a trivet or heat pad down first to protect your countertop. This way, the heat will be dissipated and it won’t cause any damage.
- Use A Cutting Board
If you do need to cut something on your quartz countertop, use a cutting board instead. This will help protect the surface from getting scratched or nicked – as these blemishes can eventually allow heat and other elements to discolor the quartz.
- Clean Up Spills Quickly
It’s also important to clean any spills or messes as soon as they happen. If left uncleaned, they can cause the countertop to become stained and discolored over time.
Also, the stains you leave on the countertop when it comes into contact with heat will become permanent or very hard to remove. So try your best to be vigilant about cleaning up any messes!
- Be Careful When Using Appliances On Quartz
Another thing to be careful of is using appliances on your quartz countertop. For example, if you’re boiling water or using the oven, make sure the area around the appliance is clear so it doesn’t cause any damage.
Appliances like toasters, ovens, and even curling irons can get very hot and cause the quartz to discolor. So just be careful and use common sense when it comes to using appliances near your quartz countertop.
- Avoid Harsh Chemicals
Finally, avoid using harsh chemicals on your quartz countertop. These can damage the surface and cause it to become weak making it easy for heat to discolor it. Instead, opt for gentle, non-abrasive cleaners that won’t cause any damage.
How To Remove Heat Discoloration On Quartz
If your quartz countertop has already been discolored by heat, there are a few things you can do to try and remove the stains.
1. Consult A Professional
This is the first solution I will recommend as it is always best to consult a professional when dealing with heat damage on quartz. They will be able to give you the best advice on how to proceed and what products to use.
If you can’t afford or don’t have time to consult a professional, there are some home remedies you can try.
2. Poultice
One thing you can try is using poultice. This is a paste-like substance that will absorb the stain from the quartz. It is made up of baking soda and water that is mixed together to form a paste. You can also find poultice at most hardware stores or online stores like Amazon!
Once you have the poultice, apply it to the stained area and let it sit for 24 hours. After 24 hours, remove the poultice with a damp cloth and rinse the area with water.
If the stain is still there, reapply the poultice and let it sit for another 24 hours. Once you’ve done that, remove the poultice and rinse the area with water again. If the stain is still there, then you may need to call in a professional to help remove it.
3. Concentrated Ammonia
Another thing you can try is using concentrated ammonia. This is a strong chemical that can be found at most hardware stores or online stores like Amazon!
To use this, mix the concentrated ammonia with water in a ratio of one-part ammonia to four parts water. Once you’ve done that, apply it to the stained area and let it sit for about 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, remove the ammonia with a damp cloth and rinse the area with water.
Final Words
Heat can definitely discolor quartz so it’s important to take precautions to avoid this from happening.
I hope this article has helped you understand the best ways to protect your quartz countertop from heat damage and how to remove any stains that may occur.
Just remember, prevention is always better than cure, so try your best to be vigilant in keeping your countertop clean!
