Can I place hot pans directly on solid surface without damage?
Although solid surface products are resistant to heat, the nature of ALL solid surfaces is to expand and contract under extreme temperature changes. By putting a hot pan in the center of the surface, the material wants to expand. With the surrounding counter being at room temperature, the area of increased temperature has no area to expand. This may cause cracking of the surface. Scorching may also occur in extreme temperatures. To prevent damage it is recommended that you use a trivet or hot pad. Routed grooves where stainless steel rods can be placed to hold hot pans is one attractive design option.
