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No, you should not put hot pots or pans directly on epoxy countertops, as this can cause permanent damage. While epoxy is heat-resistant, it is not fully heatproof. Epoxy countertops can typically withstand temperatures ranging from 135°F to 300°F, but cookware directly from a stove or oven can reach much higher temperatures (300°F to 500°F). Placing an extremely hot item on the surface can cause it to melt, soften, or discolor. To protect the integrity and appearance of your countertops, always use a trivet, hot pad, pot holder, or other heat-resistant barrier before setting down hot cookware.

Porcelain is a relatively affordable, mid-range countertop material. It typically costs between $50 to $70 per square foot.

Compared to quartz, porcelain is slightly more affordable, as quartz generally ranges from $50 to $200 per square foot. However, lower-quality, builder's grade quartz can be similar in price to porcelain.

Compared to granite, the price can be similar, depending on the quality of the stone. While granite slabs can range from $50 to $200 per square foot, you can find lower-end granite in the same price range as porcelain. High-end granites will cost significantly more.

Porcelain is generally more expensive than laminate, acrylic, and ceramic, but less expensive than high-end slate, concrete, and marble. A key benefit is that porcelain does not require sealing, which reduces long-term maintenance costs.

The best way to save money on countertop installation is to choose an affordable material. For example, if you have a busy kitchen and need durability, choose a more affordable but lasting material like granite countertops. Likewise, if you don't use your countertops often, you can use a softer material that costs less than more sturdy ones. 

Another way to cut costs is to remove and dispose of the existing countertops yourself, if possible. That way, countertop installers can get straight to placing the new feature, reducing labor costs.

Before making any big plans, climb up a step ladder and closely examine the top of your cabinets. You’ll get to see what sort of clean-up work needs to be done, but you can also check for any unexpected obstacles. Sometimes this space holds electrical boxes, wiring, or even plumbing components. Those will affect plans to install a new layer of cabinets or shelves.