If you have ever lived with a kitchen that had laminate counters, you know how annoying it can be to have to put down a hot pad or potholder every time you pull a pan out of the oven. And eventually, most people trip up and do put a pan directly on the laminate, leading to melted and worn spots. Surely, this is not the best way to live in and enjoy your kitchen. Thankfully, there are several different heat-resistant counter materials that you can place hot pans on directly. 

Granite

Granite is perhaps the best-known of heat-resistant counter options. It is extremely durable and will withstand the hottest pans your stove or oven produces, without a scar or mark ever left behind. Granite is a natural stone, but it comes in all sorts of different colors and patterns. You can find mostly solid black granite, and also lighter granite with striking patterns of gray or brown. If granite has one downfall, it's price; it tends to be the most expensive counter option, especially if you choose a unique or rare pattern.

Soapstone

If you don't mind a matte finish, soapstone counters can be a great heat-resistant option. In addition to being resistant to heat, soapstone does not react to acid or harsh cleaners, and it doesn't need to be sealed. However, it only comes in a few shades of gray, ranging from medium-dark to medium-light. It is also soft, so it may develop dings or abrasions if you cut on it or drop something heavy on it. Some homeowners actually like this natural, worn look, but it's not right for every kitchen.

Stainless Steel

If you are going for a more modern look, then you may want to consider stainless steel counters. They have a bit of an industrial vibe, but they are absolutely heat-resistant and incredibly durable. Stainless steel is also impervious to stains, and it does not scratch easily. Additionally, it tends to be one of the more affordable heat-tolerant counter materials. The downside of stainless steel is that it can be noisy. Every time you set something on it, or drop something on it, there will be a clanging noise that might wake anyone who is sleeping.

There's no reason to live with counters that melt and deform the second you set a pan on them. Consider the heat-resistant counter materials above instead. Surely, one of them will meet your needs. For more information about kitchen countertops, contact a supplier.