Can Heat Damage Granite Countertops In The Kitchen?
There's no shortage of beautiful countertop materials out there. If you're like many other homeowners, you may have opted for granite countertops in your bathroom or kitchen because of their combination of luxuriousness and their impressive appearance matched with a high level of durability. Although these countertops are rumored to be completely invulnerable to heat, this claim isn't as solid as it may first appear. Yes, it's true that they resist heat exceptionally well compared to other countertop options, but they have their limit.
Placing a hot pot or pan on a granite countertop in the kitchen or a hot curling iron on a granite countertop in the bathroom isn't likely to cause any noticeable damage if done briefly or just once, but if done repeatedly, it may eventually cause problems. While heat won't damage the countertops themselves, it can damage the granite countertop's sealant which helps protect it from spills. If you've taken the time to seal your granite countertops, you should keep this in mind. Since granite countertops are porous, spills can begin to damage the countertops if this sealant has been worn away and the countertops are exposed. While some granite countertop discoloration can be repaired, it's best to avoid these issues in the first place if you want to keep your bathroom and kitchen looking their best.
Rethinking your granite countertops' relationship with heat
To avoid problems with your countertops and keep them in pristine condition, avoid applying heat to them, despite their durability compared to other countertop materials. Take the time to set your hot pots and pans on a pot holder instead of directly onto the granite's surface. You may want to consider placing trivets below items you'll be using on the counter for extended periods of time, such as waffle irons and crockpots. This will help prevent the countertops from being exposed to heat for too long.
If your granite countertops do experience discoloration due to repeated use of hot items and damage to the sealant, however, it can usually be repaired. Consider using a restorative paste or poultice that's made for granite repair to ensure your countertops will keep looking aesthetically pleasing. Keep in mind that you should aim tore-apply granite countertop sealant annually to keep your countertops protected and to prevent staining from spills.