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. Laminate has been a widely used countertop material since the 1950s.
Corian: The Cons
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.
Quartz is harder than Corian, making it less prone to scratches and dents.
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.
Over time Corian can crack — sometimes even splitting at the seam where it joins to the sink or to other pieces of countertop.
Keep nail polish remover, bleach, detergent, permanent markers or inks, and oil soaps away from your Corian® Quartz.
While Corian is a brand name, the term is commonly used to refer to any type of solid surface containing polymer and natural minerals. It is a lower-priced material than quartz and other premium countertops. This low cost is Corian's primary call to fame.
Once popular in the 1970s, have made a comeback in contemporary interior design. While Corian may not currently be in the spotlight of home design trends, its enduring durability and versatility make it a valuable choice for homeowners looking for a reliable option!
Cost Comparison of Countertop Material
Corian generally has a lower overall price tag, averaging $60-140 per square foot installed. Natural granite countertops span from $70 on the low end to over $200 per square foot for premium stone.
Hanex® is a popular alternative to Corian®. There are over 60 colours available, including solid colours and natural stone effects. HI-MACS® is a quality acrylic worktop with all the attributes of Corian®. It's available in over 80 colours and has a range of designs that look like quartz.
Corian solid surfaces are made from high-quality acrylic polymers and natural minerals, ensuring exceptional durability and longevity. The use of these premium materials, combined with rigorous quality standards, contributes to the higher cost of Corian countertops.
Quartz Countertops
Much like granite, its value is best appreciated in the long term, as it is a durable and low-maintenance material. Quartz is a practical choice, compatible with the challenges of busy family and work lives because it requires so little effort to maintain its classic beauty.
Never put hot pans, in particular cast iron pots or hot casserole dishes directly on a Corian® top or in a sink. Such heat can damage any surface. Preventing Other Damage Be aware of what your Corian® surface has been exposed to. Harsh chemicals may damage the surface (e.g. paint removers, oven cleaners, etc.)
Because Corian has been manufactured with Resilience Technology ™ in a way that allows sanding, cutting, carving and so forth, these inherent benefits also mean that they react much like stone and wood worktops if treated harshly and the surface will show scratch marks, dull areas, and heat damage.
Corian quartz has become very popular and seems to be on track to replace legacy solid surface materials. If your Corian countertops look like marble or another type of natural stone, chances are they're Corian quartz by DuPont, which means you shouldn't use bleach to clean them.
Corian Solid Surface
It has a seamless appearance, similar to quartz. One of its main advantages is its durability, as it resists stains, scratches, and moisture. Corian is also non-porous, making it easy to clean.
No. Corian® is colour stable and non-photosensitive. This is because it contains an acrylic binding agent that does not turn yellow.
This material is designed to withstand everyday wear and tear and last for decades, usually up to 50 years, without the need for major repair or replacement. However, should it be damaged, the solid surface can be repaired in the event of minor damage.
Wipe the countertop surface with the help of an ammonia-based spray cleaner or warm soapy water for minor residue buildups, or with an abrasive cleaner for heavier buildups. This will help to remove minor scratches, scorch marks, and very stubborn stains from the Corian countertop and will revitalize it.
Corian falls into a category known as “solid surface” materials. While it's not a traditional stone like granite or marble, it's also distinct from plastics. The unique blend of acrylic polymer and natural minerals gives Corian its exceptional properties.
Corian comes in several finishes, from low-shine to high-gloss. Matte or satin, the least expensive, averages about $30 to $40 per square foot and is often used for lighter-colored surfaces. Semi-gloss and high-gloss are commonly utilized for darker countertop colors, costing, on average, $60 to $80 per square foot.
Solid Surface material, commonly known by the brand names Corian®, Swanstone, Staron®, Avonite Surfaces®, HI-MACS®, LivingStone®, STUDIO Collection®, and Wilsonart®, is a generic term for materials that are composed of two main ingredients: a natural mineral filler and a resin binder.
Most Dirt & Residue
Use soapy water, ammonia based cleaner, (not window cleaner) rinse and wipe completely Dry. Commercially available solid surface cleaners, such as Clean EnCounters® will also work well.