Quartz and Corian countertops can sometimes look very similar at first glance. However, upon closer inspection, there are some key differences between these two popular countertop materials.
What is Quartz?
Quartz countertops, also known as engineered stone, are made from ground quartz crystals combined with resins and pigments. The quartz content typically ranges from 90-94%. Some key features of quartz include:
- Extremely durable and scratch resistant
- Available in wide range of colors and patterns
- Non-porous – does not need to be sealed
- Resists stains, heat, and bacteria growth
- Requires very little maintenance
- Seamless appearance
Quartz has a very consistent appearance thanks to the manufacturing process. Natural stone patterns like veining are added during production to mimic the look of natural stone.
What is Corian?
Corian is a solid surface material made from acrylic resin and alumina trihydrate. It was first introduced by DuPont in 1967 and became popular in countertops and other surfaces. Some features of Corian:
- Softer and less scratch resistant than quartz
- Available in wide range of solid colors and patterns
- Non-porous but may need occasional sealing
- Resists stains, heat, and bacteria growth
- Can be repaired from minor damages
- Seamless appearance
While Corian lacks the durability of quartz, it makes up for it with greater flexibility in fabrication. Seamless countertops with integrated sinks can be created from Corian.
Similarities Between Quartz and Corian
There are a few similarities that can make quartz and Corian look alike:
- Available in many colors like white, black, gray, brown
- Both can mimic natural stone patterns
- Offer seamless appearance without visable seams
- Resist scratches, stains, heat and bacteria growth
- Require very little maintenance
Differences Between Quartz and Corian
While they share some superficial similarities, there are some notable differences between quartz and Corian:
- Composition – Quartz contains high percentage of ground quartz while Corian is made from acrylic resin.
- Durability – Quartz is much harder and scratch resistant than softer Corian surfaces.
- Fabrication – Corian can be flexibly fabricated into seamless integrated sinks and other designs. Quartz fabrication options are more limited.
- Repairs – Minor damages can be sanded and repaired on Corian but not on quartz.
- Pricing – Quartz is generally more expensive than Corian.
- Maintenance – Corian may need occasional resealing while quartz requires none.
How to Tell Quartz and Corian Apart
There are a few ways to distinguish quartz from Corian when examining countertops closely:
- Hardness Test – Quartz will feel extremely hard and unyielding compared to softer Corian.
- Heat Test – Quartz can withstand more heat without marks compared to Corian.
- Scratch Test – A sharp object will scratch Corian but not quartz surfaces.
- Edge Profile – Corian edges can be curved seamlessly while quartz has more limited edge shapes.
- Seams – Quartz seams may be more visible compared to near seamless Corian countertops.
- Repair Marks – Old scratch repairs may be visible on Corian but not quartz.
Pros and Cons of Quartz vs Corian
| Quartz | Corian |
|-|-|
| Very durable, scratch resistant | Less durable, can scratch and scuff |
| Requires no sealing | May need occasional resealing |
| Resists stains and heat damage | Prone to heat damage at high temps |
| Limited edge profiles | Wide range of seamless edge shapes |
| No repairs possible | Can be repaired from minor damages |
| Higher cost | More affordable option |
Conclusion
While quartz and Corian can appear similar at first glance, a detailed examination reveals key differences in composition, durability, maintenance and repair abilities. Quartz provides an extremely durable and low maintenance surface while Corian offers more flexibility in fabrication and repairability. Consider your priorities such as budget, aesthetics, and usage to decide between these two excellent countertop materials.