Granite Versus Corian – Which is Better?

With the hike in interest rates and low housing inventory squashing the hopes of house hunters around the nation, many homeowners are choosing to stay put. Those who have outgrown their current home and need more space are opting to remodel their existing home to better suit their situation. Since the pandemic, home renovations have been on the rise, leading people to search for the best materials to update their living spaces. For bathroom and bedroom spaces, many are weighing the option of granite versus Corian.

Granite Versus Corian – Which is Better?

When weighing granite versus Corian, there are a lot of factors to consider. Each has its advantages and disadvantages, and while granite might be the right choice for some, others might prefer Corian. They are both popular choices for luxury homeowners due to their enhanced durability, beauty, and heat resistance. Although both are premium materials for kitchens and baths and provide an excellent ROI, they do differ in many ways.

What is Corian?

Corian is a brand name for Dupont Corporation’s countertop material. It was the first solid surface material used for countertops, but today there are other choices. Unlike granite, it is a fully synthetic material that is manufactured using epoxide, polyester resins, and acrylic. From there, various pigments and fillers are added to determine the texture and color. The main difference between Corian and its competitors rests in the varying amounts of the mixture’s materials. Because it is a synthetic material, it provides an even and seamless appearance, unlike stones.

What is Granite?

Granite is a natural stone. Polished slabs of granite are quarried and then sold to fabricators who then use it to create customized building products. Granite comes in a vast array of styles and colors, depending on where it is quarried. The colors of granite can range from pinks to blues, with hues in just about every color imaginable. Granite, unlike Corian, has random graining and patterns that make it unique. Each slab is one-of-a-kind.

What are Some Advantages of Corian?

Both granite and Corian repel oil-based and water stains. The difference between them is that Corian does not require yearly sealing. It is a nonporous acrylic composition that will naturally resist most stains. Some products and acids that contain strong pigment, however, can bond to the surface and lead to discoloration if not cared for properly. Corian also offers design flexibility that you can’t get from natural stone. It is fully customizable, which means you can add curves and cut-outs. And there are no seams, as are necessary with most granite designs. Lastly, Corian tends to cost less than granite, depending on the product options you choose.

Why is Granite Better than Corian?

Many things set granite apart from Corian, and appearance is chief among them. Although it’s truly a matter of personal preference, the unique nature of natural stone is something you can’t get from a synthetic material. Granite, due to the mountain compression, tends to withstand abuse better. It is highly durable and more resistant to chipping and cracks when it comes in contact with heavy objects. Corian is more prone to show minor divots and marks when things are dropped on it.

Scratch-Resistant

Granite has a high hardness rating, meaning that it withstands scratches. Ranking at about a 7 out of 10 on the Mohs scale, it is superior to Corian, which ranks about a 2 or 3. Corian also shows wear and tear faster and more easily from things such as knives or heavy objects. The marks on Corian, however, do blend away over time.

Stylistic Advantages

Perhaps one of the biggest reasons why people choose granite versus Corian rests in style. The natural beauty of granite stone creates a uniqueness that you just can’t get with Corian. No two granite countertops are alike, which gives a more customized feel. Granite, unlike Corian, also comes in a vast number of colors and patterns. Corian limits the variance you have from one option to the next since it is a controlled and synthetic product.

So, What is the Best Kitchen Counter Material?

With so many options to choose from for your bathroom and kitchen countertops, it can be overwhelming to answer the question, “What is the best kitchen counter material?” Although they’re more expensive than other choices, both Corian and granite are premium products that provide an upscale look for any luxury home. Granite tends to come at a higher cost than Corian, but it also provides the look of natural stone and a uniqueness you can’t get from other materials.

When you compare granite versus Corian, granite might have a higher price point, but its uniqueness is priceless. It is also more durable and resists minor chips and cracks compared to Corian. When choosing your material, granite offers endless options for color, veining, and style, whereas Corian is more limited. In the end, it really becomes a question of personal preference. For those who are looking for all the advantages of durability, beauty, uniqueness, and heat tolerance, granite just might be the better investment.

If you are looking to upgrade your kitchen or bathroom countertops, BRZ Granite and Marble is a clear choice. We offer endless styles, colors, and textures of granite to choose from, along with excellent customer service. Contact us today to get started.