Corian vs Granite Countertops

Kitchen countertops is one of the most visible part of the kitchen. So, when you are installing countertops in your new home or planning for a kitchen remodeling, you want to give them an attractive look. Which would enhance the beauty of the kitchen. There are many choices available, when it comes to selection of the kitchen countertops materials. Among them, Corian and granite are two of the most popular options, as both have high durability. Both of them have many other exceptional qualities, and at the same time are quite expensive.

Corian vs Granite Countertops

Materials
The material used for the making of Corian countertops is mineral compound and plastic or acrylic polymer. The polymer is first heated to liquefy it, then the mineral is mixed and is molded into countertop slabs. Granite, on the other hand, is a naturally occurring stone material. It is a form of igneous rock and is found in the form of huge slabs which are cut into the shape of a kitchen countertop.

Prices
Both Corian as well as granite are costly materials but granite is slightly more expensive as compared to Corian. The price range of Corian countertops may vary in between $40 and $100 for every one square foot of material. While the estimated price of one square foot of granite countertops will be around $50 to $200. If you want minimum seams on the granite countertop, then the price will go even higher than this.

Patterns
The uniqueness of granite lies in the fact, that the patterns and color of no two slabs of granite are same. Moreover, the patterns are really extraordinary, as they are all made by nature. You can combine two or more slabs of different colors and patterns to create a design of your own. The colors available for granite countertops are limited which include cream, black, red, green, etc. Corian countertops are available in a huge variety of colors and patterns. You can get one single colored slab, as well as multiple colored slabs. You will be able to get any number of slabs of same color and designs.

Care and Maintenance
As granite is a natural stone, its surface is porous which needs special care and maintenance. Its surface should be sealed regularly, or else water will enter into the tiny pores and cause bacteria growth. It should be cleaned with stone cleaner only. You cannot use vinegar, acids or bleaches on the stone, as its surface would get damaged. The surface of Corian is smooth and nonporous. So you do not have to use any sealer to protect the surface. It is easier to clean and any commercial cleaning products can be used on it. However, abrasive cleaners are not suitable for the Corian surface, as they cause scratches.

Comparison
Finally, it's time to highlight the key points of difference between Corian countertops vs granite countertops. They are as follows:

• Corian is a man-made material but granite is a natural stone.
• Corian is available in larger varieties of colors and designs, as compared to granite.
• A granite counter is much more expensive than a Corian counter.
• Corian countertops tend to get scratches very easily, while granite is almost impossible to scratch.
• You cannot place hot pans or other utensils on Corian countertops, but heat does not cause any harm to granite countertops.

From this article on Corian vs granite countertops, one thing is clear that both the materials have their own share of advantages and disadvantages. Therefore, if you want a classic look for your kitchen, then you must opt for granite countertops. For a more trendy look, where you want the color and design of the countertop to match up with the rest of the kitchen design, then Corian countertops is the obvious choice. Moreover, budget is another factor which has to be taken into account. When the budget is low, Corian countertops is a better option.