Community Chat

[busymom22]

I was going to buy the TSV the Good Housekeeping warming mat but there are several reviews that say the heat from the mat cracked their stone countertops. While granite and quartz are heat resistant, if the entire stone surface is heated up over time it can expand and crack. Does anyone know if they mentioned that the protective mat prevents this? 

[JeanLouiseFinch]

@busymom22 - there are videos on the listing page that you can watch. 

[Bhvbum]

Update:  The protective mat was added to this product for that very reason.  The rep explained that the unit is already up on feet, this mat is even an extra protection.

The protective mat included with the Good Housekeeping Portable Food Warming Tray serves several purposes:

1. Heat Retention: It helps keep food warm without the need for open flames or traditional heating methods.
2. Surface Protection: The mat protects your countertops or tables from heat damage when placing hot dishes.
3. Versatility: You can use it for various types of food containers, including chafing dishes, take-out containers, and even pizza boxes.

This makes it an essential accessory for potlucks, parties, and family dinners, ensuring that your meals stay warm and ready to serve.

[Shanus]

@busymom22  and others: I do know that when we moved to our new place, we had granite counters all over. We were given a warning sheet to use rubber or protective mats before putting pots down in kitchen, curling irons, etc. in bathrooms, etc. 

[SouthernBee]

@busymom22 : I was searching for buffet items to keep food warm. Several reviews mentioned the warming mats possible damage to the counter tops and drying the food . I purchased the ole fashioned buffet server. I purchased a silicone mat to put under the buffet server for extra protection. 

[SactoSue]

Thanks for posting about this possibler hazard. 

I cannot imagine how upset I would be if my granite countertops cracked.

[monicakm]

@busymom22 

Yes, stone countertops can crack...thermal shock.  When granite first became so popular, it was touted as impervious to heat.  Depending on the granite, some are more dense than others.  The darker a granite is the more dense/harder and therefore more impervious.  Those are stronger. Granite has fissures.  Some you can see and some you can't.  Repeatedly placing hot pots directly on the counter 'can' cause it to crack due to thermal shock.  The fissures are weak spots and will be more susceptible.  Another thing is placing hot pots on WET granite.  Don't do that.  You may get away with it for a long time but most likely at some point, it will crack.  Lighter granites being the most susceptible.

[Bhvbum]

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@SactoSue wrote:

Thanks for posting about this possibler hazard. 

I cannot imagine how upset I would be if my granite countertops cracked.

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Those complaints were from a year ago, I think the heat resistant pad was added for that very reason. See my comment above.  The comments didn't mention any pads under the units.

I

[Lucky Charm]

I could never or would never put a hot pot or a cold/frozen item directly on my granite.  Just out of habit from the earlier days of Formica or even Corian.

How hard is it to have a trivit or potholder handy?

I have loved my granites for decades now at different homes in kitchen and baths.  I do have quartz now in both full baths and still 'baby them'.

The TSV heating mats look like they would be a good option. However, I use the 5 burners on my stove, my oven and a toaster oven, to keep food hot.  (No microwave in my kitchen!)  And, honestly, not enough countertop space for the mats and no desire for them on my dining table....