Can Corian Tile Be Faux-Finished?

Corian

• A solid, nonporous surface, Corian is easy to clean. It resists bacteria, mold and mildew, which is why it has been given top-level certification for safe use in kitchens. Matching sinks, backsplashes and counters made of Corian can give the effect of one single surface. Homeowners can typically repair minor scratches and other damage to Corian, and professional refinishers or careful do-it-yourselfers can remove deep scratches.

Why Refinish Corian

• Because Corian is an antimicrobial surface that’s easy to clean and restore, covering it with a faux finish doesn’t necessarily make sense in a working kitchen or bathroom, as the new finish will cover up the qualities that make Corian popular. Faux finishes make sense if your Corian has been severely damaged, however, or if it's in an environment where microbial resistance isn't a concern. If you want to update your kitchen but don’t have the funds for granite, other natural stone or poured concrete, a faux finish is an affordable alternative.

Special Corian Preparation

• Before applying any faux finish, you need to thoroughly clean and “degrease” counters, backsplashes and other affected surfaces. You’ll also need to apply patching compound to nicks and gouges, and sand the surfaces smooth. But also remove any clear silicone caulk used around sinks and at the base of backsplashes, replacing it with latex or acrylic caulk. “De-gloss” Corian, too, with very fine sandpaper, and wipe it with a clean, damp cloth. If you have a sink and countertop molded in one piece, create a seam or line -- using delicate-surface painter’s tape -- where the sink will end and the faux-finish countertop will begin. You don’t want to refinish your sink, because faux finishes won’t stand up to constant moisture.

Faux Finishes

• Paint-on products such as Giani Granite Paint for Countertops may take you an entire weekend to apply, because each layer of paint, coloring minerals or heavy-duty polymer protective finish needs time to dry. You also need to allow time for the finished surface to harden before heavy use. But the process is otherwise straightforward and fairly simple, manageable for most do-it-yourselfers. Concrete overlays are another option. But unless you’re experienced working with decorative concrete, for that process -- like applying granite veneers -- you should probably hire a professional.