Introduced by DuPont in 1967, Corian has been used for kitchen counters for several years. Attractive to some homeowners for its integral sink, infinite shaping possibilities and uniform color and pattern, the material is a major player in the kitchen design industry. Homeowners considering Corian for their kitchen counter should be sure to consider the material's use and maintenance as part of the decision process.
What is Corian?
Corian is a solid surface material made of acrylic polymer and alumina trihydrate. When the material is heated to 300-degrees Fahrenheit, it can be shaped and molded into countertops, shower surrounds, seats, sinks and other items. The color of the material goes all the way through; if Corian is scratched or chipped it can be re-heated or ground down to be refinished.
Because of its ability to be molded, Corian counters can be produced without visible seams, and with integral sinks already attached to the counter. Edge details can be produced in rounded, Eased, Ogee and DuPont styles, allowing the material to suit any kitchen design.
The Benefits of a Corian Countertop
Corian is a non-porous substance, meaning that it will not absorb moisture or stains, and will not harbor or grow mildew, mold or germs. This makes Corian an ideal prep surface for sanitary conditions and kitchens. The integral sink and lack of seams in the design allows homeowners to quickly and easily clean up the surface, without fear of debris getting caught between the pieces of counter, or under the rim of the sink.
The colors of the material are consistent, allowing homeowners to have a countertop without variation from sample colors to the actual counter installed. Solid colored counters, such as pure white, or beige are available for homeowners wishing to have a completely neutral counter, while designer colors and pallets are available with multiple colors that mimic the look of stone, without the variation.
The Drawbacks of a Corian Countertop
While Corian remains a popular choice for some homeowners, it does have some disadvantages. Corian scratches, burns and melts fairly easily. While light surface scratches can be buffed out of the material with a scouring pad, deep scratches are common and may require the surface to be reworked.
The seams between the pieces of material used on the counter are fused together with heat at the time of installation, which means that heat can also separate them as well. Plumber Neil T.*, has explained to Suite 101 that he has seen seams popped open by hot pots from a stove, as well as melted bathroom counters from the careless placement of a heated curling iron on a counter's surface.
These issues do mean that care must be taken when using a Corian countertop and that regular maintenance with a scouring pad may be needed to keep the surface appearing smooth and free of scratches or marks.
For kitchens which receive a lot of heavy use, including cooks who regularly cut foods directly on the counter, Corian may not be the most beneficial surface to use. For homeowners who care about ease of cleaning however, a Corian counter with its non-porous surface may be the correct choice.
When choosing a kitchen counter, it is important to consider both style and maintenance of the counter to make an informed decision. Consider these attributes of Corian when making the decision as well.
*Disclaimer: Last name withheld at interviewee's request
Sarabeth Asaff - Sarabeth Asaff is a freelance writer and artist with a passion for cooking and good food. Growing up in the kitchen of her Lebanese ...
