What Is Corian Countertop?
What Is Corian Countertop?
Corian is a brand name for solid surface countertops, first introduced in 1967. It is made by mixing mineral dust with pigments and binding it with resins. Corian was and continues to be a great alternative to the popular plastic laminate countertops of the 1970s.
It consists of 33% synthetic polymers and 66% natural materials resulting in a lower cost.
Corian countertops have a stone-like appearance, but may not look like solid granite upon close inspection. For those who prefer the look of slab granite natural stone countertops may be a better option.
Corian countertops have long been considered a less fashionable option compared to other kitchen countertop materials. However, it’s worth giving Corian a second look as it offers unique qualities and opens up new possibilities for creative kitchen design.
Many consumers may be confused about Corian and solid surface countertops, including what they are made of and how they compare to granite and quartz. This review will provide a comprehensive guide on Corian, including its composition, pros and cons, cost, color options, design possibilities, cleaning and care, repair, buying tips, and warranty information.
Corian is a brand name for a type of solid surface countertop invented by DuPont in 1967. Solid surface countertops are engineered stone materials made by blending acrylic polymers with minerals and other stone-derived materials.
The resulting blend is poured into molds to create half-inch-thick sheets, which are consistent all the way through, making them solid and the same both inside and out.
This blend allows for unique features and benefits that other countertop materials cannot offer. Epoxy countertops and cultured marble are similar in that they use various resins, mixes, and molds to form surfaces.
DuPont’s Corian, which also produces Zodiac quartz counters, is the most well-known brand of solid surface countertops, but since DuPont’s patent expired, other brands such as Staron, Avonite, and Wilsonart, among others, have entered the market with their own versions of solid surface countertops.
In conclusion, Corian worktops are a durable option with specific advantages, but like all countertops, they also have some drawbacks. With this comprehensive guide, you can make an informed decision on whether Corian is the right choice for your kitchen.
Corian Countertop Costs
Corian countertops are often more budget-friendly compared to granite or quartz counterparts. The material cost is typically lower and it’s less prone to cracking, making it easier to fabricate with less waste. This translates to more affordable prices for basic installations.
However, it’s possible for a Corian countertop to have a similar cost to a quartz or granite countertop depending on the design. On average, Corian countertops start at around $35 per square foot, with most installations costing between $45 and $65 per square foot.
This is about the same as granite but less than quartz which typically costs between $65 and $85 per square foot. The final cost of Corian countertops can vary greatly depending on factors such as color, kitchen configuration, design details and fabrication complexity.
The price can reach up to $100 to $130 per square foot for complex fabrication. Labor costs can also vary significantly between contractors and locations so it’s important to compare quotes from multiple sources to get a better idea of the expected cost.
Are Corian Countertops Heat Resistant?
Corian countertops are not heat resistant and can easily be damaged by hot pots and pans. Unlike granite or quartz, Corian is vulnerable to heat damage and can leave scorch marks if pots and pans are placed directly on the surface.
Placing hot items on any kitchen countertop can also result in damage, as grit trapped under the pot may scratch the surface or cause thermal shock which could lead to cracking.
To prevent damage, it’s recommended to always use a trivet with Corian countertops and be cautious when using countertop appliances that generate heat, such as toaster ovens.
Pros Of Corian Countertops
Corian countertops offer a wide range of benefits, including the fact that they come in over 100 different colors and patterns, are non-porous and don’t need to be sealed, as well as easy to clean and maintain.
Seams are nearly invisible when joined together and integrated sinks and drainboards can also be installed. Corian is malleable enough to be formed into virtually any shape desired, the surface can even be illuminated to give a beautiful glow effect.
Today’s modern versions of Corian even have the capability to wirelessly charge your phone or tablet simply by placing it on top of the countertop – plus, if any damage does occur, this can usually be repaired without too much difficulty. On top of all that it is generally cheaper then quartz or granite countertops.
Cons & of Corian Countertops
There are some disadvantages of using Corian as a countertop material. It is softer than other materials, such as granite and marble, making it more prone to denting and scratching. Furthermore, its heat resistance is not as high as other surfaces, so hot pans can burn into the surface (although this may be easily repaired).
The use of certain cleaners and chemicals can cause discoloration over time, so it must be carefully maintained.
Finally, although its price tag might be attractive at first, its resale value will not match that of granite or quartz which tend to maintain their value better with age.
Can You Put Hot Pans On Corian Countertops?
Corian countertops provide an attractive and durable surface, but one should always use caution when using them with hot cookware. Placing a hot pan directly on the surface will almost certainly leave a mark, and so experts advise against it.
To protect the surface from damage from heat, it is best to keep trivets or heat pads handy at all times, and to take care to avoid contact between hot pans and Corian surfaces.
How Do You Keep Corian Countertops Shiny?
To keep Corian countertops shiny, buff them with a microfiber cloth and specialized polish. As well, for Caesarstone countertops with a durable finish that can maintain its shine for years, clean up any spills immediately and avoid the use of abrasive detergents. This will ensure a glossy and dazzling finish on your Corian and Caesarstone countertops that will last over time.
