About Corian Countertops

DuPont introduced Corian Solid Surface in 1967 as an easily cleanable, nonporous, hygienic material for use in homes and hospitals. DuPont originally supplied Corian in only four shades of white and beige, but now it offers a wide palate of colors and patterns suitable to any decor. Corian is popular as a top-of-the-line countertop surface, valued for its stonelike appearance and durability.

Appearance

Corian is available in more than 130 colors and patterns that range from the perennial favorite, white, to richly ornate marble and granite designs. Colors for countertops, backsplashes, coves and sinks can be mixed and designs can be inlaid into any surface. Its appearance is similar to stone. Sheets of the material can be molded and formed into almost any contour or shape. Separate pieces of Corian are bonded together and polished, making the entire surface of the worktop or vanity jointless and seamless.

Durability

Corian countertops are acrylic-based, essentially plastic, cast into sheets during manufacture. Corian is nonporous and, since liquids can't penetrate it, highly stain resistant and easy to clean. It resists mold, bacteria and mildew growth. These same properties make Corian a kosher certified surface. Cleanup with ammonia cleansers or soapy water is all that is needed under normal use to maintain its finish and hygienic properties. DuPont guarantees Corian countertops for 10 years.

Workability and Restoration

DuPont supplies Corian in three thicknesses---1/4 inch, 1/2 inch and 3/4-inch. The sheets are bonded to a backing material, usually fiberboard, during final fabrication. Corian can be cut, milled, filed, ground, polished, drilled and routed similar to hardwood. Temperatures above 212F and hard impacts or cuts may damage the surface. Unlike laminated or veneered counter tops, the color or pattern is consistent all the way through the sheet. Shallow scratches can be removed with mild abrasives. More extensive refinishing or restoring requires buffing and re-polishing the damaged area. The original pattern will remain intact.

Pricing and Availability

Corian is available for sale and professional installation exclusively through kitchen and bath design shops, cabinetmakers and home centers such as Lowe's and Home Depot. Each seller sets its own price, which may or may not include design, fabrication and installation, so prices vary widely. When comparing estimates, be certain that the quote is for the entire job and includes materials and labor. DuPont offers a price estimator at their website that will give a rough idea of the cost based on square feet and design features.

Other Uses

The same properties that make Corian an excellent counter top surface give it versatility in applications where a formable, hard, moisture and stain resistant material is needed. Corian sinks are popular in vanities and kitchens, as are custom Corian cabinet knobs and pulls. Walls made of the material are a sensible choice in damp environments. Bowls with intricate designs can be machined from Corian. Lighting designers have found that some colors of the material are translucent, and have employed it in mood lighting. Headstones and plaques take advantage of its stonelike appearance and machinability.