Corian is an advanced composite of natural minerals and pure acrylic polymer. These two materials are mixed and poured into molds in order to produce half-inch thick sheets. Corian countertops are solid surface countertops manufactured by DuPont. Positive Reviews Given below are some Corian countertop pros and cons for you to consider. Compared to the advantages, the disadvantages are more. However, there are major advantages which shouldn't be ignored. Availability in Multiple Colors: Previously, Corian countertops were available in only a few selected colors, but now, the color palette available to customers is quite extensive. They come in myriad solid colors, whites, as well as in metallic finishes, which resemble marble, granite, and quartz. This way you can use any color to complement your existing kitchen décor. Option to Pre-order: It is possible for homeowners to order the pre-cut length of this countertop to match your kitchen, or to give it a unique look. Matched with Sink: One can easily match the Corian kitchen countertop, using the similar type of material for the kitchen sink. This way you can have a uniform looking kitchen countertop and sink, that matches your kitchen decor. Negative Reviews Here are some known major as well as minor disadvantages of Corian countertops. Scratches Easily: All reviews of Corian countertops talk about two major drawbacks. Firstly, Corian countertop are susceptible to scratches easily and secondly, they are not heat-resistant. Also, the scratches on Corian countertops are permanent. Not Stain-resistant: Even though, Corian countertop manufacturers claim that their product is stain-resistant, easy to clean, and maintain, many people who've installed these countertops have complained that they aren't stain-resistant and are quite difficult to maintain. Not Heat-resistant: When exposed to hot pots or other vessels, these countertops tend to get damaged and bear permanent marks. Hence, it is very important that you avoid keeping any hot pots on the countertop surface; use heat pads if required. Expensive: These countertops are expensive. Though the price of Corian countertops is not as high as that of granite, they are still more expensive when compared to other types of materials used for making countertops. Unnatural Appearance: These countertops mostly come with a matte finish. Sometimes, white or other unnatural colors of Corian countertops tend to make them look like plastic. ☞ It will be good if you can go to a store and check out Corian countertops yourself. Test the countertop with a cup of coffee to see if it really is stain-resistant and cleans easily. You can also talk to a friend or acquaintance who has installed Corian countertop and have been using it for years. Other Options to Consider Apart from Corian countertop, you can check out some other options which are affordable and easier to maintain. Stainless Steel Countertops One of the best options are countertops made of stainless steel. They are easy to maintain and clean, are heat-resistant, and cost way less than Corian countertops. However, they can give a restaurant-like look to your kitchen, which can be undesirable for some. But, if you can match the other minor fixtures in your kitchen (e.g., cabinet handles) with the stainless steel countertops, the look you'll get will be quite desirable and chic. Stainless steel is a good choice if you want something which fits in a tight budget; however, remember that these countertops are susceptible to scratches and denting. Granite Countertops This is one of the most popular kitchen countertops. Sometimes, the cost of granite countertops can be a bit higher than that of Corian countertops. But in the long run, granite countertops are the best. There is a limited choice of color when it comes to this option, owing to granite's natural occurance, while in Corian, you can practically order any color of your choice. However, granite is scratch-resistant, and you can put hot pots on it. It can be porous though, so you might need to use a special cleaner once a week to thoroughly clean the granite countertop. Engineered Stone Countertops Engineered stone is a composite material which is made out of crushed stone bound by a polymer resin. Similar to Corian, engineered stone is available in various colors and styles. It can be customized to look like marble or limestone. It is heat-resistant and eco-friendly. However, it is hard to create curves with engineered stone. It is also a bit more expensive compared to other countertops but is durable and easy-to-maintain. Marble Countertops Both granite and marble are genuine natural stones and each slab of these stones have a unique look to offer. Marbling or the veining of marble looks beautiful. Also, it is available in various colors and patterns; however, not in as many colors as offered by corian. But marble ages beautifully, while there have been complaints of Corian countertops losing their appeal with time. Marble is porous, similar to granite, and you might need to use a sealer on it to prevent staining. If you are still not sure about which countertop to go for, it is better you increase your budget and get granite countertops fixed. They are reliable and durable. However, if you are looking for a perfectly fitting countertop in a particular color, Corian countertops are a good choice. But, if you have children or you keep staining your countertop due to hot pots or vessels, it is better you consider heat-resistant countertop materials. Consult various contractors in your area to get several price quotes from them, and ask them how cost-effective each material used to make countertop is in the long run so that you can invest wisely.