Is it time to replace your countertops? Whether you are an avid cook, an epic crafter, or a savvy business owner, you want to ensure that you get high-quality countertops so you can continue doing what you love most. Many of us use our countertops each and every day, so the last thing we want to have to worry about is where to set a hot pan, cup, or glue gun! Today, we will share with you our list of countertops from least heat-resistant to most resistant so you can make the right countertop choice for you!

Hot pan on a countertop

Before getting started, we want to point out that every countertop will vary depending on the quality of the material, installation, and maintenance.

Heat Resistant Countertops

Least Resistant Countertops

While the following countertops may meet your aesthetic desires, they are not heat-resistant.

  1. Terrazzo countertops and recycled glass countertops will likely glaze and crack when exposed to heat.
  2. Laminate countertops can crack and discolor from heat, even as little as the heat from a coffee cup.
  3. Solid-surface countertops will crack when exposed to extremely hot or cold objects.

Middle Ground Countertops

The following few countertop materials are more heat-resistant than the prior materials, but you would still have to be cautious when dealing with hot objects.

  1. Ceramic and porcelain countertops may discolor when exposed to heat.
  2. Stainless steel, copper, and aluminum countertops are heat-resistant, but they also retain heat. If you set a hot pan down on these metal countertops, the transfer of heat is quick. You need to be cautious when placing your hand down on the countertop to avoid getting burned.
  3. Quartz, slate, and limestone countertops are resistant to heat, but hot pads are still recommended to prevent discoloration.
  4. Engineered stone, natural stone, and porcelain tile vary in their capabilities. Often they are heat resistant, but some may require the use of hot pads.

The Best Heat Resistant Countertops

If you are looking for countertops where you can plop down hot pans and not have to worry, these are the ones for you.

  1. Soapstone and marble are heat resistant; however, they are more prone to other damage (like scratches) than the following.
  2. Concrete isn’t just for driveways anymore! Concrete is highly resistant to heat. However, it is prone to microcracks over time.
  3. Granite is the #1 choice for heat-resistant countertops. Given that granite requires high heat and pressure to form, it makes perfect sense for this material to be at the top of the list.

Alaska Countertops

Obviously, more goes into choosing the perfect countertop for you than just heat resistance. Here at Alaska Countertops, we can advise you on which countertop designs and materials are ideal for your specific needs. Give us a call today for more information on how we can help you achieve your countertop goals.