Corian vs. Concrete

Corian

• First introduced in the late 1960s, Corian is a brand-name product made by the DuPont company from a nonporous acrylic polymer known as polymethyl methacrylate. Small beads of the polymer are processed to create various products. To produce Corian countertops, the polymethyl methacrylate is molded, along with added colors and minerals, between two glass forms using heat and pressure to create the final product. More than 80 colors of Corian countertops are available, 33 of which are made from recycled materials.

Concrete

• Unlike most countertop materials, concrete countertops are poured either on-site or off-site, depending on the contractor. They are constructed of a combination of concrete and reinforcements, such as wire mesh, structural steel or fiberglass. It is not uncommon for multiple types of reinforcement to be used. Once poured into the form, the concrete is allowed to cure. Then, the top is sanded down until smooth and finished with a layer of sealer for protection and sheen.

Similarities

• Both Corian and concrete countertops are molded products. When concrete is properly sealed, it is just as resistant against stains and spills as Corian. Both Corian and concrete countertops can appear seamless, as Corian can be made from a single mold while concrete can be pieced together using seam filler to create the look of a seamless unit. Corian comes in a number of different colors, while concrete can be stained or colored to create various looks.

Differences

• Concrete countertops are more resistant against heat than Corian countertops. Even though Corian is designed to resist some heat, it is still a plastic and therefore susceptible to damage, such as melting, by excessive or prolonged heat. In comparison, concrete is harder than Corian, as Corian can easily become scratched or dented. One advantage of Corian is the ability to have a sink molded seamlessly into the countertop design.