The Downside To Using Quartz Countertops In The Bathroom

If you've been looking into new options for your bathroom countertop, you may have considered using quartz. This material is cited as a good choice for countertops due to its easy maintenance and non-porous surface — meaning it doesn't stain as easily and is less likely to harbor bacteria. In addition, quartz is available in various patterns and colors, making it easy to choose a countertop color that suits your bathroom. However, there is one downside to using quartz in the bathroom that you may want to consider before taking the leap.

While quartz is known as one of the most durable kitchen countertops and is relatively resistant to scratches, it can also be susceptible to heat damage. This is because quartz countertops are generally only about 90% natural quartz. The other 10% comes from pigmentation additives and resin. Resin tends to be added because it helps make the quartz less vulnerable to scratches and does away with the need for future resealing. However, the added resin does not hold up as well under extreme heat. This is clearly an issue in kitchens where hot pans may be placed directly on the surface, but what potential buyers may not always consider is that it can also be a concern in bathrooms. Certain personal styling appliances, such as hair straighteners, dryers, and curling irons, use extreme heat that can harm the counter's surface. Let's take a look at what happens to quartz countertops when exposed to high heat. In addition, we'll explore how to prevent damage if you already have this type of countertop or would still like to install it in your bathroom.

To understand what gadgets and implements might be harmful to a quartz countertop, it can be helpful to be aware of exactly how much heat quartz countertops can take. The resin that is typically added to these types of countertops is generally understood to be able to withstand around 150 degrees Fahrenheit, or sometimes a little higher. So, if you have hair curlers or straighteners set to a high setting — many can reach temperatures as high as 450 degrees Fahrenheit – then you are likely to damage the quartz counter if they are placed directly on the surface. Heat damage can appear in the form of slight yellow discoloration or, in more extreme cases, as darker, more obvious spots revealing exactly where the damage occurred. This is best avoided because past owners of quartz countertops have vocalized how difficult or even impossible it can be to remove heat marks, with many deeper burns requiring professional sanding and repair services. 

But if you already have quartz counters in your bathroom or are really set on installing this material, there are some ways you can prevent the unsightly side effects of heat damage. It may be tempting to place hot appliances on a simple hand towel to protect the counter, but this can be a fire hazard, as the towel itself could heat up and catch fire. Instead, try investing in some silicon mats designed to withstand the heat of these implements and protect the countertop underneath. While there is the initial cost of the mat, it will likely save you from paying hundreds of dollars for professional repairs.