Corian Countertops Vs Quartz Best Comparison
When it comes to choosing a kitchen countertop material you want to get the best. One that looks good, has a high resale value, performs well, and is heat resistant. You may be torn between two options: Corian countertops (also known as solid surface) and Quartz countertops.
It’s often difficult to tell one from the other as they both appear to be strikingly similar. However, if you dig deeper, you may discover that the gap between Corian and quartz countertops widens. You’ll find that one countertop material may work better for you than the other.
When it comes to the Corian vs quartz debate, the appearance, durability, and cost are all important. Let’s look at the differences below.
Corian Countertops
Corian is a brand name for a solid surface countertop material that was first introduced in 1967. Mineral dust is mixed with pigments and bound with a variety of resins to create this product. The material was and continues to be a great alternative to the popular plastic laminate countertops of the 1970s. Corian is made up of approximately 33% synthetic polymers and 66% natural materials, resulting in a reduced cost.
Corian countertop materials have the appearance of a stone. They are unlikely to be mistaken for solid granite under close inspection. For many people, the appearance of slab granite for a countertop is unrivaled. If this sounds like you, natural stone countertops can be a good fit.
Quartz Countertops
Engineered quartz countertops, on the other hand, include around 93% of the same crystals found in natural quartzite. A second process links the crystals with resins, color dyes, and other elements.
Quartz is an engineered stone that may be found in a wide range of hues, forms, and sizes. Fabricators make quartz countertops in the same way that they make granite countertops. They cut forms from the slab and then polish the edges.
Quartz’s appearance and designs are much more uniform, simple, and patterned since it is engineered. (Caesarstone, 2021)
Quartz and Corian Solid Surface Countertop Comparison
Corian and Quartz are two popular countertop options for your kitchen or bathroom. Each with its own set of pros and cons which we will look at in this article.
Cost
Corian is cheaper than quartz although Corian and quartz countertops are roughly comparable in price. This is dependent on style, color, and design complexity. Prices are tough to compare because obtaining the source materials alone is challenging. Most vendors will only sell to fabricators or contractors that are licensed.
ProTip Takeaway. The estimated cost of Corian is $45 – $65/sq. ft. on average (range is $35 – $100) while Quartz will cost $65 – $85/sq. ft. on average (range is $45 – $120).
Style and Substance
Corian Countertops
Corian has a more contemporary appearance compared to Quartz. Corian countertops are the best if you want a distinctive and futuristic kitchen countertop design.
Corian also gets extra credit for being able to be shaped into curved or flowing shapes. These countertop surfaces are extremely adaptable. They can be molded into horizontal and vertical designs to suit a wide range of countertop styles.
It’s simple to get a consistent color and pattern that match your needs because of the way these materials are created. Quartz colors and patterns aren’t quite as regular and consistent as Corian patterns.
Quartz Countertops
If you want your countertops to seem like stone, quartz is the way to go. Quartz is around two pounds heavier per square foot, giving it a more robust appearance.
Quartz counters are more difficult to fix than Corian (though they don’t break easily). Their patterns are less constant, so they’re not ideal if you’re a perfectionist. (Kitchen Infinity, 2021)
Heat Resistance
Corian Countertops
Keep heated items like glowing-hot skillets off your Corian kitchen countertop. This is if you want to keep your solid surface countertop guarantee valid. Corian countertops are not really heat resistant.
They can only withstand temperatures of up to 212 degrees Fahrenheit before cracking. Solid surface materials can be sanded and repolished to eliminate stains in the unlikely event of burning.
Quartz Countertops
The heat resistance of quartz kitchen countertops is stronger than that of Corian materials. Quartz countertops might theoretically catch fire if exposed to high enough temperatures. In a kitchen, however, such temperatures are nearly difficult to achieve.
Seam Visibility
Corian Countertops
A bonding adhesive is used to make seams that are so very tight. They are made in such a way that they are practically not visible seams to the naked eye.
Quartz Countertops
Seams are covered and will still be noticeable with quartz countertops.
Scratch Resistance
Corian Countertops
Corian countertops have a softer surface and are easily scratched and damaged. It’s therefore not a good idea to cut on solid surface countertops. If you cut on solid surface materials, you will almost certainly get scratches.
Although a solid surface countertop is more easily scratched than quartz, scratches can be quickly buffed out. If you’re prepared to put up with the buffing, it’s an excellent deal.
Quartz Countertops
While cutting on quartz/engineered stone surfaces is not advised, they are actually tough to scratch with regular use. Quartz countertops are more scratch-resistant than solid surface countertops.
Quartz countertops are also far more resistant to burns and scratches than solid surface counters. This is due to its resin, which makes them hard to destroy. (The Spruce, 2021)
Strength and Durability
Corian Countertops
Corian countertops were created in response to laminate countertops. Laminate countertops were significantly weaker and of inferior quality. Corian countertops will outlast laminate countertops in terms of longevity. It however cannot compete with quartz’s robustness and longevity.
ProTip Takeaway. Corian countertops don’t add much value to your home. They are not recommended if you’re planning to sell soon and don’t want to perform another kitchen redesign first.
Quartz Countertops
Quartz has low maintenance and a splendid appearance. It is extremely durable and virtually invulnerable, resistant to scratches, mold, and mildew.
Sustainability
If you value eco-friendly materials and design in your house, here’s how each countertop material compares:
Corian Countertops
Corian is not just long-lasting, but also repairable. Solid surfaces are less expensive to make than other materials since they are man-made. They are also easier to maintain than many other materials.
Quartz Countertops
Quartz countertops are extremely long-lasting and made in the United States. Quartz countertop slabs include one of the most abundant minerals on the planet.
They also contain pre-and post-consumer recycled material. They’re built to endure a lifetime, which is why they’re covered by a lifetime warranty. (Kitchinsider, 2021)
Sealing and Maintenance Requirements
The constant need to protect a natural stone countertop is one of the realities of owning one. Before the first use, and on a regular basis after that, the porous stone must be sealed.
Because solid surface and quartz countertops are both fully non-porous, sealing is never necessary. Non-porosity is ensured by the number of resins in the mix.
Corian Countertops
To avoid any damage that could affect the product’s lifespan, proper cleaning and care are still required. This includes cleaning with a delicate cloth, warm water, and mild soap on a regular basis. To remove any build-up of food residue from the sink area, all Corian sinks should be washed once or twice a week.
Quartz is stain-resistant. This means spills and stains are not absorbed into the surface of quartz which makes it considerably easier to clean. For a clean and long-lasting countertop, daily cleaning with a soft cloth, warm water, and mild soap is still required. (Caesarstone, 2021)
ProTip Takeaway. When it comes to repairs, granite countertops have the upper hand. Damage to natural stone can almost always be restored, but quartz countertops are usually irreversible.
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Corian Countertops |
Quartz Countertops |
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Non-porous. No need for sealing. |
Non-porous. Does not require sealing and resealing. |
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Easy to clean and maintain. |
Low maintenance |
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Easy to repair. |
Hard and durable, will last you a lifetime. |
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Seams are invisible. |
Seams are visible |
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Can be molded into almost any shape. |
Cannot be molded into many shapes |
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Easily scratched and dented because of the softer surface. |
Scratch-proof. |
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Easily reacts to chemicals and discolors. |
Stain-resistant and easy to clean |
For your new kitchen or bathroom, which is the best Corian or Quartz countertops?
For your new kitchen or bathroom, Corian and Quartz countertops are both excellent choices. You can choose the ideal option for you by weighing the benefits and drawbacks of each type. It’s also crucial to know what you want from your countertop when picking one of the two varieties to utilize in your kitchen or bathroom.
How long do you want your countertop to last? What is the ideal color and style to complement your kitchen’s design?
Using the pros and cons of Corian and Quartz countertops and working with Smart Remodeling LLC should help to make an informed decision. Work with Smart Remodeling LLC, Houston’s best kitchen countertop company to help you in deciding which type of material to use. Allow us to make your dream a reality. Smart Remodeling LLC takes pleasure in our unmatched services and products in countertops.
We are one of the best Kitchen Countertops Houston contractors. For excellent kitchen countertops and competent services at an accessible price, contact us now.
