For many years solid surface (Corian) countertops were considered a high-end alternative to granite tops. While granite consistently enjoys the top spot in luxury reviews, solid surface has declined in popularity. It's not dead yet though.
In terms of durability, Corian tends to be more easily damaged by hot surfaces than natural stone. It's also more prone to scratches than surfaces like quartz and granite.
Corian and other solid surface materials are generally warranted for 10 years; but in practice, they can easily last 30 years or more. Scratches and burns—or simply the need to change styles—may eventually make you want to replace these countertops.
In fact, the biggest difference between these materials lies in their resistance to heat. While quartz is not completely heat-resistant, it does perform better than Corian—hot pots and pans won't damage the surface of quartz if they're put down for a few seconds.
Caesarstone quartz generally costs more per square foot than Corian. Because quartz countertops are more durable and easier to maintain, however, the cost of ownership is typically less over time. Keep reading to learn more about why many consumers are willing to pay more for Caesarstone quartz.
Many consumers look to Swanstone as a less expensive alternative to Corian or Avonite. One benefit of Swan's diversified product lines is that they are a good source of solid surface integrated sink countertops, especially bathroom vanity tops. Swanstone stands up well against high heat.
Quartz. Quartz is the most durable countertop material. A perfect choice for any kitchen or bathroom, quartz countertops contain a mixture of crushed quartz and resin. These materials create diverse appearance options that range from vibrant, customizable colors to the tried-and-true natural finish.
Quartz countertops are the easiest natural stone to take care of. They are engineered using ground stone and resin, so they don't require regular sealing they way most granite and marble countertops do. This stone is non-porous, so it does not easily stain or etch.
Durability
– Granite is much more heat resistant than quartz. – Granite scratches less easily than quartz.
Both quartz and Corian solid surfaces are non-porous, stain-resistant and extremely sanitary. Granite is also durable, but can still be prone to cracking, fissures and staining. And granite requires simple, but regular, sealing to maintain.
How Much Do Corian Countertops Cost Per Square Foot? Corian countertops cost range from $26 to $65 per square foot to about $65, depending on the design and type. Prices vary by thickness and style. This price range does not include labor costs, approximately $75 per hour, or between $50 and $80 per square foot.
While Corian® Solid Surface is heat resistant, as with all countertop materials, it is important to minimize direct heat exposure to protect your surface and investment. Important — Do not place hot pots, pans, etc. directly on the countertop surface.
As a solid, nonporous surface, Corian® Solid Surface can be maintained with minimum care to retain the original appearance. Because it can be repaired, Corian® Solid Surface will still look and perform like a new installation, while other surfacing materials will often need to be replaced.
The type of dust produced by fabricating Corian® surfaces is considered nontoxic and is referred to as nuisance dust. Inhalation of these nontoxic particles can cause irritation to the nose, throat and upper airways.
Corian gained popularity in the 1990s.
Black countertops bring boldness and elegance to a classic or modern designed kitchen or bathroom. Solid-Surface Countertop.
Corian is a very attractive choice due to its seamless appearance and variety in colors and designs. Corian is not the most durable countertop surface out there and is prone to scratches and heat damage. Corian typically does not have the glossy appearance or feel that some people prefer.
One of the main reasons quartz has exploded in popularity is due to appearance. Quartz has the look of stone while also allowing homeowners to customize the design. While granite offers many options in terms of appearance, you may have to search for the right piece that matches your color scheme.
Ceramic and porcelain tile are among the most affordable varieties and come in a wide range of colors and patterns, including designs that mimic granite and other stone. Natural stone tiles are pricier than ceramic but are much more affordable than slab granite or marble.
Granite and quartz are popular choices for kitchen and bath countertops. Both materials are very durable and enhance interior designs and functionality, but which one costs less? Generally, quartz is less expensive than granite, but many factors influence the total price of a project.
White marble will always be an elegant choice for kitchen countertops, but if the maintenance and potential for staining has you worrying about its longevity, consider butcher block. The go-to choice for farmhouse kitchens, butcher block will wear beautifully over the years, and you can prepare food directly on it.
You could be considering finishing, maintenance, staining, durability, color, or any other of the number of aspects that come with different countertop options. But when it comes to specific interests, namely doing high level cooking in the kitchen, top chefs in the world prefer granite countertops.
Quartz Countertops
Quartz is resistant to scratches, stains, and heat, plus it's non-porous. This makes quartz one of the most durable countertops you can buy for your kitchen or bathroom.
Bottom Line. Solid surface countertops are very versatile and give a reasonable and much more affordable alternative to granite and engineered quartz. Solid surface countertops aren't difficult to clean, either.
Granite. One of the most heat-resistant options for kitchen countertops is granite. This natural stone is formed underground through a natural process incorporating high pressure and temperatures. Typically, the heat generated by cooking will not be high enough to cause damage.