Are you struggling to decide between Corian and granite countertops for your kitchen?
In this post, we’ll be breaking down the Corian vs. granite price debate and help you make an informed decision.
You’ll discover the key differences between these popular countertop materials, the pros and cons, and which one offers the best bang for your buck.
In a nutshell, Corian is generally less expensive, with prices ranging from $40 to $65 per square foot, while granite prices can vary from $35 to $200 per square foot.
But there’s more to this story!
Stay tuned as we delve into factors that impact their prices, durability, maintenance, and overall appeal. By the end of this post, you’ll be equipped with all the knowledge you need to make the best choice for your home.
By the way – before we get too far along here, if you want to connect with other homeowners, DIYers, and builders and get more great ideas for your home to make your space the best join my free private Facebook group, Remodel Reality here.
Cost Comparison: Corian vs Granite
If you’re in the market for new countertops, you may be wondering which material is the best choice for your kitchen or bathroom.
Corian and granite are two popular options, but they come with different price tags.
In this section, we’ll compare the averagecost per square foot for Corian and granite countertops, as well as the price difference between the two.
| Factor | Corian Countertops | Granite Countertops |
|---|---|---|
| Average Cost per sq. ft. | $45 – $65 (can vary with design and color) | $50 – $200 (can vary with stone quality and installation) |
| Price Range | $40 – $150 per sq. ft. | $40 – $200 per sq. ft. |
| Material Composition | Man-made; natural minerals, acrylic polymer, pigments | Natural stone; igneous rock |
| Appearance | Uniform look, wide range of colors and patterns | Unique patterns and colors, natural stone look |
| Durability | Scratch and stain-resistant | Scratch, stain, and heat-resistant |
| Maintenance | Non-porous, easy to clean with soapy water or cleaner | Porous, requires regular sealing to prevent stains |
| Installation Costs | Generally lower | Generally higher due to labor and expertise |
| Long-term Costs (Resale Value) | Lower resale value | Higher resale value |
| Maintenance Costs | Lower, minimal maintenance required | Higher, periodic sealing and frequent cleaning needed |
Corian Countertops: Breaking Down the Costs
Corian is a solid surface material made from acrylic and other materials.
It’s known for its durability, non-porous surface, and wide range of colors and patterns.
The average cost for Corian countertops is between $45 and $65 per square foot, according to our research.
However, prices can vary depending on the design and color you choose.
Granite Countertops: Price Per Square Foot
Granite is a natural stone that’s prized for its beauty and durability. It’s available in a wide range of colors and patterns, and each slab is unique.
We found, he average cost for granite countertops is between $50 and $200 per square foot.
However, prices can vary depending on the quality of the stone and the complexity of the installation.
Cost Faceoff: Corian and Granite Price Differences
While granite is generally more expensive than Corian, the price difference isn’t as significant as you might think.
Corian costs between $40 and $150 per square foot, while the price of slab granite starts at $40 and can reach up to $200. However, there’s more to consider than just the cost per square foot.
When comparing Corian and granite countertops, it’s important to look at the total cost of the project.
Granite requires professional installation, which can add to the overall cost.
Additionally, granite is a porous material that requires sealing to prevent stains and damage. Corian, on the other hand, is non-porous and requires minimal maintenance.
Here’s the bottom line:
Ultimately, the choice between Corian and granite comes down to your personal preference and budget. If you’re looking for a natural stone with unique patterns and colors, granite may be the best choice for you.
However:
If you want a durable, low-maintenance solid surface material, Corian may be a better option.
When comparing the cost of Corian and granite countertops, it’s important to consider the average cost per square foot, as well as the total cost of the project.
While granite is generally more expensive than Corian, the price difference isn’t as significant as you might think. Ultimately, the best choice for your home will depend on your personal preferences and budget.
Material Matchup: Corian vs Granite
When it comes to choosing a countertop material, Corian and granite are two popular options.
Both materials have their unique pros and cons, and it can be challenging to decide which one is right for your needs.
In this section, we’ll compare Corian and granite countertops to help you make an informed decision.
Corian Countertops: An Overview
Corian is a solid surface material that is made by DuPont. It is a man-made material that is composed of natural minerals, acrylic polymer, and color pigments.
Corian countertops are available in a wide range of colors and patterns, making it easy to find a style that fits your kitchen decor.
Corian surfaces are non-porous, which means they are resistant to stains and bacteria growth.
They are also easy to clean with soapy water or a mild cleaner.
Granite Countertops: A Brief Introduction
Granite is a natural material that is formed from igneous rock. It is a popular choice for countertops because of its durability and natural beauty.
Granite surfaces are available in a wide range of colors and patterns, making it easy to find a style that fits your kitchen decor.
Granite is a porous material, which means it needs to be sealed regularly to prevent stains and bacteria growth. It is also heat resistant, making it a great choice for cooking and baking.
Head-to-Head: Comparing Corian and Granite
When it comes to cost, Corian countertops are generally less expensive than granite countertops.
The cost of Corian countertops ranges from $60 to $130 per square foot installed, while the cost of granite countertops ranges from $80 to $180 per square foot installed.
However, the price of granite countertops can vary widely depending on the rarity of the stone and its thickness.
In terms of durability, both Corian and granite countertops are scratch and stain-resistant.
However, Corian countertops are more prone to scratches than granite countertops.
If you want a countertop that is resistant to scratches, granite is the better choice. On the other hand, if you want a countertop that is resistant to stains, Corian is the better choice.
When it comes to appearance, granite countertops offer a wide range of colors and patterns that are unique to each slab.
This means that no two granite countertops are exactly alike, giving your kitchen a one-of-a-kind look.
Corian countertops, on the other hand, offer a uniform look that is consistent across all surfaces.
If you want a countertop that looks like natural stone, granite is the better choice. If you want a countertop that offers a wide range of colors and a uniform look, Corian is the better choice.
When it comes to maintenance, both Corian and granite countertops require regular care to keep them looking their best.
Corian countertops are easy to clean with soapy water or a mild cleaner, while granite countertops need to be sealed regularly to prevent stains and bacteria growth.
If you want a countertop that requires minimal maintenance, Corian is the better choice. If you don’t mind the additional maintenance costs, granite is the better choice.
The Final Verdict: Corian or Granite?
In conclusion, when deciding between Corian and granite countertops, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and budget.
Corian is a premium countertop material that offers a uniform look, a wide variety of colors, and is easy to maintain.
Granite is a natural stone surface that offers a one-of-a-kind look, a wide range of colors, and is durable and heat resistant. Regardless of which material you choose, be sure to properly care for your countertop by using cutting boards, hot pads, and a repair kit for minor scratches.
Digging Deeper: Other Factors to Weigh
When it comes to choosing between Corian and granite countertops, price is certainly a major factor to consider.
However, it’s not the only one.
There are several other factors that you should take into account before making your final decision.
In this section, we’ll explore some of these other factors and help you make an informed choice.
Installation Costs: Comparing Corian and Granite
The installation costs of Corian and granite countertops can vary significantly depending on a number of factors, such as the size of your kitchen or bathroom, the complexity of the installation, and the location of the stone fabricators.
In general, granite countertops are more expensive to install than Corian countertops because they require more labor and expertise.
However, the cost of installation can sometimes be offset by the higher resale value of granite.
Maintenance Matters: Corian vs Granite
Both Corian and granite countertops require proper care and maintenance to keep them looking their best.
Corian countertops are generally easier to maintain than granite countertops because they are non-porous and can be cleaned with soapy water and a soft cloth.
Granite countertops, on the other hand, are porous and require more frequent cleaning with warm water and a scouring pad.
In addition, granite countertops may need to be resealed periodically to prevent stains and scratches.
Long-term Financial Considerations
When comparing the long-term costs of Corian and granite countertops, it’s important to consider not just the initial price, but also the resale value.
Granite countertops generally have a higher resale value than Corian countertops because they are more durable and long-lasting.
However, the resale value of both types of countertops can be affected by factors such as wear and tear, proper care, and the current market demand for the materials.
Exploring Alternative Countertop Options
While Corian and granite are two of the most popular countertop options, there are several other materials to consider as well.
Quartz countertops, for example, are a popular alternative to granite and Corian because they are non-porous, durable, and easy to maintain.
Laminate countertops are another affordable option that can mimic the look of more expensive materials like granite.
Concrete countertops are a more unique option that can be customized to fit your specific design preferences.
When choosing between Corian and granite countertops, it’s important to consider not just the price, but also factors like installation costs, maintenance costs, long-term costs, and other materials to consider.
By weighing all of these factors and making an informed decision, you can ensure that you choose the right countertop for your needs and budget.
Related & Frequently Asked Questions
As you consider which material best suits your needs, you may still have some questions about specific aspects of these materials.
The following FAQ section addresses these concerns, providing further insights to help you make an informed decision for your kitchen or bathroom countertops.
Related & Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can a hot pan or pot damage solid surface countertops like Corian?
A: While solid surface countertops like Corian are heat-resistant to some extent, they are not immune to damage from high temperatures. Placing a hot pan or pot directly on the surface may cause permanent damage. Always use a trivet or heat pad to protect your countertop.
Q: How do engineered stone countertops like quartz compare to natural stone countertops like granite in terms of durability and maintenance?
A: Engineered stone countertops, such as quartz, are a combination of minerals and man-made materials, making them highly durable, scratch-resistant, and non-porous. This means they require less maintenance compared to natural stone countertops like granite, which are porous and require regular sealing to prevent stains and damage.
Q: How do ceramic tiles and granite tiles compare as countertop materials?
A: Ceramic tiles are a more affordable alternative to granite tiles but may not be as durable. Granite tiles are made from natural rock and offer the look of natural stone, making them a popular choice for countertops. However, they may have visible seams and require more maintenance than ceramic tiles, which are generally easier to clean and maintain.
Q: How do solid-surface countertops like Corian fare in terms of color options and solid colors?
A: Solid-surface countertops like Corian offer a wide variety of color options and solid colors, making it easy to find a style that matches your kitchen or bathroom design. The colors are consistent across the entire surface, providing a uniform appearance.
Q: Can lemon juice cause damage to natural granite countertops?
A: Yes, lemon juice and other acidic substances can potentially cause damage to natural granite countertops over time. These substances can etch or dull the surface, so it’s essential to clean up spills quickly and use a cutting board when handling acidic foods.
Q: How does the use of a circular saw affect the installation of countertop materials like granite slabs?
A: A circular saw is often used for cutting and shaping granite slabs during installation. This process requires precision, skill, and proper safety measures. Using a circular saw can affect the overall cost of installation, as it may require hiring a professional with the necessary expertise and equipment to ensure a proper fit and finish.
Q: What are the additional costs associated with installing granite countertops compared to solid surface countertops like Corian?
A: Additional costs associated with installing granite countertops may include professional installation fees, the cost of initial sealing, and ongoing maintenance costs for resealing and cleaning. Solid surface countertops like Corian typically require less maintenance and may have lower installation costs, as they are easier to work with and do not require sealing.
Q: How do bathroom countertops made of Corian compare to those made of marble in terms of scratch resistance and excessive heat resistance?
A: Corian bathroom countertops are generally more scratch-resistant and heat-resistant than marble countertops. While both materials are durable, marble is a softer, more porous material that is more susceptible to scratching and damage from excessive heat.
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