You may be using an unsupported or outdated browser. For the best experience, please use the latest version of Chrome, Firefox, Safari or Microsoft Edge to browse this website.

A gap has recently formed between Corian and the granite countertop. For many years, solid surface (Corian) countertops have been considered a high-end alternative to granite countertops. Although granite consistently ranks high in luxury reviews, the popularity of solid surfaces has declined. But it is not dead yet. In any frontal comparison between Corian and granite countertops, the solid surface still has a place.

Corian is the brand name of the original solid countertop material. In the early 1970s, DuPont combined resins, epoxy resins, natural limestone and pigments to create an attractive alternative to the limited countertop options available at the time. Today, the name Corian is often incorrectly used to refer to any sturdy countertop. Since the 1970s, many manufacturers have developed similar products under many brands. It now has different quality and price points.

Nature created granite at some time in the past billions of years or so. However, in the 1970s and 1980s, it became popular as a countertop. As the name suggests, it is a solid rock taken from the earth without adding anything.

The sturdy countertop requires almost no maintenance. Protecting the surface from burns and scratches is the only similar maintenance requirement. Resin and epoxy form a non-porous surface, which does not require any type of sealing or polishing.

Granite must be sealed once a year to protect its natural porous surface from contamination. Keeping it clean is a good idea to avoid rare scratches. Granite does require some maintenance, but very little. Harsh general-purpose cleaners should not be used on granite countertops.

Solid countertops are versatile. Their ease of manufacture and artificial composition give them a seemingly endless variety of color options, shapes and styles. Although the design is limited to monochromatic uniformity, this situation is changing with the development of technology. More complex patterns that imitate granite and marble are becoming more and more common in the market.

The specific design of granite needs to be purchased rather than created. There are many modes available. The trick is to find a vision that suits you. Each granite countertop is unique. Usually, they have about a dozen common colors to choose from, but you may need to make some compromises based on availability.

Historically, solid countertops including Corian have a certain texture but a monochromatic appearance. Its subtle appearance is very suitable as an attractive product without detracting from other design features of high-end kitchens. Recently, it has undergone style upgrades, including more complex and eye-catching designs.

No man-made product can reproduce the uniqueness of granite slabs. As a 100% natural product, there is only one of each. You can find everything from subtle shades of monochrome to vibrant multi-tones and detailed patterns. Usually, each work is classified as one of several color series. In addition, any combination is possible. They are very suitable as a prominent design feature of your kitchen.

The solid countertop requires no maintenance. Its non-porous surface prevents deep stains caused by moisture. Surface stains can be simply wiped off in the rare event that they form. If used carelessly, kitchen knives and tools may cause scratches. In rare cases, if they are hit by a heavy object, they may shatter. Standard general cleaners are very suitable for cleaning.

Granite is a low-maintenance product. However, it must be sealed annually to prevent staining. For this purpose, granite sealants are easily available. Its natural and strong surface is scratch-resistant. Frequent wiping with mild soap and water is sufficient to maintain the beauty of the seal. Avoid using harsh chemical cleaners that may cause surface etching.

Solid countertops usually provide a 10- to 20-year warranty. In fact, 30 to 50 years is the expected length of time before they need to be replaced. However, due to the ease of maintenance, the solid surface top can theoretically last the life of the entire family.

Assume that granite countertops can be used for 100 years or more. They have not appeared long enough to reach their average lifespan. Care and maintenance will be the factors that determine the life span. By their nature, they are expected to last much longer than your house.

Although a solid countertop is a durable product, it may require repair. Fragmentation and staining are rare, but they can also occur. The product is uniform and strong from start to finish, so scratches can be repaired by simply wiping off the scratches with abrasive materials or even a scouring pad. Chips and cracks are easily filled with color matching epoxy resin. Some repairs can even be classified as DIY.

The porous nature of granite makes it easy to stain, especially if it is poorly maintained. You can use ready-made granite cleaners to remove stains. Rare scratches, cracks, or nicks can usually be repaired, but not always. Generally speaking, repairs must be performed by professionals to obtain high-quality results.

Compared with granite or quartz countertops, solid countertops are much easier in your kitchen renovation budget. Their installation price is about US$50 per square foot, up to US$140. In some cases, it can even be installed DIY to keep the price lower.

Granite is everywhere. If standard supply and demand models were established, people would expect them to be cheap. However, once it becomes a countertop, it is nothing. The installed granite countertops averaged $130 per square foot, ranging from $80 to $180 per foot. Prices will change and fluctuate under any number of market variables, with little or no warning.

The installation of solid countertops is usually performed by professional installers. They have the tools needed to create almost invisible seams, giving any kitchen a beautiful appearance. However, some installations may be suitable for DIY installation. It is not uncommon for homeowners to order pre-cut countertops for bathroom vanity or kitchen countertops. You can use the same tools as woodworking for cutting.

The granite is heavy and unwieldy. If there is no support, it can easily break. Particular care and usage must be taken during the installation process. Seam edges require training, and mistakes are costly. For these reasons, granite countertop installation is almost always left to professional installers. Installation costs are usually included in the purchase price.

Due to its synthetic composition, solid surface countertops will not let in moisture at all. However, these same materials are susceptible to heat damage. Placing the hot pan directly on the surface can easily cause permanent damage. Use thermal pads, tripods, and cutting boards to protect the surface.

For granite countertops that are properly sealed and maintained, moisture damage is not a problem. If exposed to high temperatures, some sealants may fail. Protect the new sealant from the bottom of the hot pot. However, granite itself does not generate any heat in a standard kitchen environment.

When talking about building materials, the environment is always worrying. Environmental protection has different connotations for different people. Over time, tremendous progress has been made in reducing but not eliminating these concerns.

Solid surface countertops rely on the production of chemicals used to make products. These chemicals are then mixed with a variety of natural materials and up to 20% recycled materials in the manufacturing environment. The product is non-toxic and will not deteriorate over time.

Granite does not need to be manufactured, but it does have carbon usage considerations. Quarrying, transportation, cutting and polishing all have an impact on the environment. No volatile chemicals are used, it is always a natural product.

The solid surface is still a high-quality countertop material. It requires no maintenance, so it is simple and convenient to have. However, it is losing popularity, and in the past decade, its resale value has plummeted to near zero.

The resale value of granite countertops has always been around 25% of its retail value. In addition, their reputation has created a good selling point in the real estate market.

In terms of customer appeal, granite countertops far exceed Corian or solid countertops. Financially speaking, granite is a more reliable investment, but it will cost you more upfront costs.

Solid countertops are more suitable for those who are more budget-conscious but still want a durable and attractive quality product.

Solid countertops belong to the manufacturer's brand name, while granite usually belongs to the supplier's name. Here are some common and trustworthy names for both.

Deane is a veteran in the contracting, renovation, maintenance and home repair industry for more than 30 years. His experience ranges from licensed construction contracting to ownership of property maintenance companies. Currently operating home repair and DIY consulting services, he empowers his clients to be self-sufficient in their home repair and renovation work.

Samantha is an editor, covering all home-related topics, including home improvement and maintenance. She has edited home repair and design content on websites such as The Spruce and HomeAdvisor. She also hosted videos about DIY home furnishing tips and solutions, and launched a number of home improvement review committees equipped with licensed professionals.