the cooktop
Heat builds up under the raised edges, creating uneven thermal stress
Over time — or suddenly — the glass can crack from the pressure
Even worse? Some pans (like older cast iron or cheap stainless steel) expand when hot, worsening the gap between metal and glass.
💥 Result: A loud pop… then a cracked or shattered cooktop.
🚫 Other Dangerous Habits That Can Cause Cracks
❌ Dropping heavy pots or utensils
Even small impacts can create weak points that lead to future breaks
❌ Placing cold items on a hot surface
Sudden temperature change = thermal shock (e.g., placing a frozen pan on a hot burner)
❌ Letting cookware boil dry
Extreme heat concentrates on one spot, weakening the glass
❌ Using abrasive cleaners or metal scrapers
Scratches weaken the surface over time
❌ Cooking with lids made of tempered glass
Rare, but some lids have been known to shatter due to heat stress
✅ How to Protect