When building a new home or renovating, one of the biggest decisions to make in terms of kitchen design is what type of countertop to use. There are so many options available today that it can be difficult to decide. Many people choose materials based on aesthetics rather than their durability. If you're looking for the most durable option when choosing countertops, you'll want to take into account how they handle the heat.
Granite Countertops
One of the most popular choices in countertops is granite due to its beautiful color variations and rich stone texture. A drawback of this type of material is that it's porous, meaning liquids can get inside the surface and discolor it over time. These stains are hard to remove, even with the strongest cleaning products. Granites also do not handle heat well at all and can easily be damaged by hot pots or pans that are placed directly onto their surface.
Quartz Countertops
While not as popular a household material today, quartz is a dense stone with high compressive strength. It's non-porous and therefore doesn't stain as granite does. The downside to quartz countertops is that it is much more expensive than common types of stone such as marble or granite. In addition, the price only goes up when trying to find one in a custom color or texture, which many people desire when renovating their home's kitchen cabinets.
Marble Countertops
In recent years, marble has made somewhat of a comeback, especially among homeowners who are willing to pay for the high costs associated with marble countertops. These include the price of installation and repair following damage or stains. Marble is highly resistant to heat, but it's also very porous and can stain easily if anything is spilled on top. Even though it's more expensive than quartz, many people choose marble because of its beautiful veining patterns that come in a variety of colors.
Which is the Most Heat Resistant Material?
Even though marble and quartz countertops are both heat resistant, they can still be damaged if you don't take care to protect them. Many people choose granite because it's inexpensive and easy to clean. However, people who want a more durable option that will continue to look great even after years of use should consider using marble or quartz.
The Benefits of a Heat Resistant Kitchen Countertop
The main reason to invest in a heat-resistant countertop is to avoid spending money on frequent repairs and replacements. If you want something that doesn't change color or warp, heat resistance should be your first priority when picking out countertops for the kitchen. This will also ensure that you enjoy using your appliances without worrying about ruining the surface below them.
Heat-resistant materials are perfect for those who like to cook with woks, flambé dishes, or even over open flames. You can use these types of counters as a workspace for preparing food without having to worry if they'll be damaged from hot ingredients or tools.
Most high-end kitchens today have at least one type of heat-resistant countertop, often made from quartz or marble. These countertops are a great way to upgrade your kitchen and make it more functional for those who want to enjoy cooking at home.
The Benefits of Granite Countertops
Granite countertops are a popular choice because of their beauty and durability. Their deep colors and veining patterns give them a textured look that feels like home. While they can stain if you don't clean up spills immediately, they're relatively easy to clean as long as you use the proper products for removing dirt and grime.
If you want to choose a heat-resistant type of countertop but still desire an option with beautiful veining, you might consider going with granite composite materials instead. These countertops have all of the same benefits as natural stone yet have added strength against damage from stains or hot pots and pans placed on top.
Benefits of Quartz Countertops
Quartz countertops offer strength and beauty like granite but with the added bonus of heat resistance. Many people will actually use quartz in place of granite because it can tolerate direct contact with hot pots or pans without warping.
Benefits of Marble Countertops
Marble is a more expensive option than some other countertop materials. Still, its heat-resistant properties make it worth the investment for those who truly love cooking and baking at home. Marble doesn't scratch easily and resists stains brought on by liquids containing high amounts of acidity. If you don't mind spending extra for an excellent kitchen renovation, marble might be the best choice to improve your kitchen's appearance while increasing usability.
While each material has its own benefits and drawbacks, all of these options are great for those who want to enjoy cooking at home. Heat resistance is just one of many things that you should consider when choosing new countertops, so pick the type that best matches your style and lifestyle.